Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, flashbacks and hypervigilance are just some of the symptoms experienced by people suffering from PTSD. These symptoms can be severely disabling and make it difficult to lead a normal life. However, there are many types of treatments available and some of them, like neurofeedback, have been shown to have positive results. Here’s an overview of how neurofeedback veterans have been able to cope with their condition through this type of treatment and what you need to know about it before beginning the process yourself.
What are some common symptoms of PTSD?
Survivors of trauma often experience a range of symptoms that can make it difficult to go about their everyday lives. These can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, avoidance of triggers, and feeling constantly on edge. Neurofeedback therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for reducing these symptoms. Neurofeedback is a brain-based technique which trains the brain to function more efficiently by using sensors hooked up to your head. Brain mapping, in particular, helps veterans heal and understand the trauma they experienced during military service.
How does neurofeedback work to help people with PTSD?
Neurofeedback therapy is a great option for those struggling with PTSD. It works by helping the individual to understand how their brain holds onto trauma and assists in the healing process by retraining brainwaves to let go of "stuck" patterns. Brain mapping is an important part of this therapy, as it allows the therapist to see which areas of the brain are most impacted by the trauma. This information is then used to create a treatment plan that is specific to the individual.
Can neurofeedback treat all types of mental health disorders?
Neurofeedback therapy is a promising treatment option for PTSD, but it can also be used to treat other mental health disorders. Brain mapping is an important part of neurofeedback therapy, as it allows the therapist to see which areas of the brain are most affected by the trauma. This information can then be used to help the individual heal from the trauma. Neurofeedback therapy has been shown to be effective in treating domestic abuse and sexual assault survivors, as well as veterans with PTSD.
Why isn’t everyone already getting neurofeedback if it works so well for anxiety and stress reduction?
There are a few reasons. First, it’s still a relatively new technology. It was first used in the 1960s to help astronauts with stress and anxiety, and then later for people with epilepsy. Brain mapping for trauma didn’t become popular until the early 2000s. Second, neurofeedback is not yet covered by insurance. However, Connected Brain Counseling offers payment plans and discounts on therapy for Veterans struggling with symptoms of PTSD in order to make treatment more accessible.
How long does treatment take?
While the number of sessions and length of time each session lasts can vary depending on the individual, a typical course of neurofeedback therapy for PTSD brain mapping for veterans might involve 40-60 sessions that last 30-60 minutes each. However, some people might need more or fewer sessions to see results. And like any therapy, results can vary from person to person.
Connected Brain Counseling offers 45 minute sessions that are specifically designed for your brain based off of your QEEG Brain Map data.
If I sign up, can I cancel if I change my mind at any point before or during treatment (i.e., wanting to opt out)?
The great thing about neurofeedback is that it is non-invasive and does not require any type of medication. You can opt out at any time if you feel that it is not working for you. However, keep in mind that this therapy takes time and consistency to work. It is important to give yourself at least 10 sessions before making a decision about whether or not to continue.
The team at Connected Brain Counseling is educated and experienced in how to best guide you through a neurofeedback program for veterans. Reach out at www.connectedbraincounseling.com to set up a free 20 minute phone consultation to see if neurofeedback training is right for you.