NeuroIntegration Therapy (NIT)

NeuroIntegration Therapy for Addiction Recovery

NeuroIntegration Therapy (NIT) is “brainwave entrainment” therapy used to help regulate and restore the natural rhythms of the 5 brainwave frequency ranges known as Delta, Theta, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma.

Each brain wave is associated with different modes of functioning:

• DELTA waves (0.5-4hz) are the slowest brain waves and are strongest during restorative sleep. 
• THETA waves (4-8hz) are normally prominent when we find ourselves in a meditative state, daydreaming, etc. Research has shown a positive association of theta waves with memory, creativity, and psychological well-being. 
• ALPHA waves (8-13hz) fall in the middle of the brain wave spectrum and are essential for the ability to relax mentally and physically. Alpha is what we like to call the “here and now” brain wave. 
• BETA waves (13-32hz) run at a faster frequency and are associated with an alert consciousness, and active thinking and processing. Beta brain waves are present during active conversation, decision-making, problem-solving, absorbing new information, or focusing on a task. 
• GAMMA waves (32-100hz) are the fastest measurable EEG brainwaves and have been equated to ‘heightened perception’, or a ‘peak mental state’ when there is simultaneous processing of information from different parts of the brain. Gamma brainwaves have been observed to be much stronger and more regularly observed in very long-term meditators including Buddhist Monks. 

Dysregulation of any of these brain waves can generate a variety of negative side effects that can be detrimental to our everyday lives.

If clients choose to participate in the NIT program they will receive an initial brain map while in the detox phase. After completing at least two weeks of residential treatment they will receive a second brain map to serve as an example of how sobriety along with a diverse amount of therapeutic tools can lead to the normalization of brain wave activity.

How Does NIT Work?

To measure these waves we use what is called a QEEG, or Quantitative Electroencephalograph. A QEEG is a standard EEG that is digitized and stored in a standardized computer format. It can be analyzed and compared to a database of other known healthy QEEGs.

Brain Mapping

This non-invasive, passive method records electrical brain activity with the use of a cap of 19 sensors that are placed directly onto the scalp.

We then input the QEEG file into a special analysis program designed to create a 3-dimensional color rendition representing locations with higher than normal (hyper-coherence) or lower than normal (hypo-coherence) brainwave activity. This output is what is referred to as a “Brain Map”.

After the brain map is completed, we will be able to determine which brainwave frequencies need attention, dictating how we will proceed with Vibroacoustic Therapy sessions in order to “entrain” the body and the brain to return to their more natural state. 

Vibroacoustic Therapy

Vibroacoustic therapy uses tactile vibrations as well as many audio techniques (binaural beats, isochronic tones, originally composed music, and true low-frequency vibrations) to allow the body to relax and absorb the energy from these comforting frequencies and then “move toward them” or to “entrain” to them.

Evaluation

Approximately two weeks after beginning residential treatment, clients will receive a second brain map. This version will be quantitatively compared to the first map to show a percentage of change in neuroplasticity and brain normalization. 

SJRP clients are provided many things in addition to VAT to help regulate brainwaves such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness training, as well as better nutrition, physical activity, and better sleep.

Our unique combination of therapies and wellness activities allows clients to greatly improve their overall mental and physical health, setting them up for a better chance of long-lasting recovery. 

To learn more about how NeuroIntegration Therapy and brain mapping guide the recovery process for clients at St. John’s Recovery Place, call our admissions team at 833-397-3422 and ask about the Neuro Therapy Program.

NeuroIntegration Area

Brain-Stim Office