Training the Brain: Neurofeedback with Melanie Shapiro
As we have touched on before, healing and wellness can take place in a variety of forms, whether it be through traditional talk therapies or alternative treatments. At The Viva Center, our practitioners and affiliates are skilled in approaching the well-being of clients with a variety of techniques. One of these techniques is Neurofeedback.
Neurofeedback is a process in which we observe the brain and identify its current functioning. Brain activity is measured by electrode sensors placed on the scalp which is then measured and processed by a computer. Once the computer reads the brainwaves, real-time feedback is given through audio, visual and tactile responses. This process resembles playing a video game, yet it is a brain learning how to regulate itself. This process eventually trains the brain to function at an optimal level, a skill that once it learns, it holds on to.
Neurofeedback can also shift patterns of negative emotion that have not shifted with conventional talk therapy. Melanie Shapiro, LICSW, is a Viva practitioner who uses Neurofeedback to allow the brain to be more flexible and fluid, benefiting people in many different directions. For example, Melanie has used Neurofeedback to calm people who feel anxious, stressed, or disconnected from the body, but also with clients who want to heighten their performance or improve decision-making, memory, and attention. This is because Neurofeedback can be used to regulate both over-aroused and under-aroused brains.
Melanie recognizes the benefits that come from Neurofeedback, stating that, “people have come in and made great progress. As an alternative way to access physical and emotional states, it’s very helpful for people who don’t have words for what they’re experiencing.” She also describes a “windshield wiper effect” that many Neurofeedback clients see after just a few sessions, where people begin to notice flowers and colors, feel more connected to people on the streets, and become more grounded and calm. For this reason, Neurofeedback is a great treatment for reducing anxiety, negative emotion, impulsivity, and a great technique for improving focus, mood regulation, and performance.
For more information on Neurofeedback, you can check out Viva’s services page here–https://www.vivapartnership.com/Neurofeedback/
