Advanced Neurotherapy specializes in corrective care using brain mapping and neurofeedback to treat neurological, emotional, behavioral, executive function and educational issues. It is safe for all ages. Owner Dr. Jolene Ross has been practicing psychotherapy for 35 years and has 23 years of experience in neurofeedback therapy, which is supported by a large body of peer-reviewed published research. Ross states, “Brain mapping is changing our understanding of the brain and providing a better understanding of trauma and how to treat it.”

She points out that “mental problems are physical,” meaning that mental difficulties are the result of disruptions in the brain. These disruptions can be the result of a wide variety of causes, such as head injury, a difficult birth, genetics, disease and trauma. “Mental disorders can be corrected safely and effectively with neurofeedback,” she says. Advanced Neurotherapy’s methods are also extraordinary for treating PTSD, anxiety and hypervigilance, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, post-concussion and other disorders.

Brain mapping is the quantitative analysis of digital EEG data, or electrical brain waves. The data is recorded at 19 locations on the scalp during various neurological states such as eyes closed, eyes open, reading and performing other age- appropriate tasks. The baseline brain map requires two hours. The EEG data is stored in a computer and converted to a form that can be compared to a normal, healthy EEG. The information from this analysis is used to develop a neurofeedback treatment protocol unique to the individual, related to their goals and the problems that are present.

Once a neurofeedback protocol is developed, treatment can begin. In conducting a neurofeedback session, sensors are placed on the head and brain waves appear on a computer screen. The therapy is based on operant conditioning, rewarding the brain immediately for producing better brain waves. Breaks in the session are provided to store the brain’s learning. Neurofeedback is highly efficient and effective because it goes straight to the brain.

“Neurofeedback creates new neural pathways,” explains Ross, “and it increases the volume of both white matter and gray matter in the brain. It harnesses and directs neuroplasticity.” Neuroplasticity is the ability of neural networks to change through growth, new connections and reorganization.

When COVID-19 business restrictions disrupted treatment schedules, Advanced Neurotherapy adjusted its office visit procedures with safety, sanitary and social distancing protocols. Ross also added teletherapy. Individuals can determine if neurofeedback therapy is right for them with a free, one-hour online consult. If an individual decides to move forward, Ross will conduct a one-hour intake appointment, also online. She will recommend an individualized neurotherapy plan, which may include brain mapping, neurofeedback, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), bio-acoustical neurotherapy (BAUD), counseling or a combination of these.

For people unable to travel to the office, brain mapping and neurofeedback can be conducted virtually at home. The equipment is sanitized, packaged and mailed to the client, who is taught how to set up the equipment during remote sessions run by Advanced Neurotherapy specialists.