The role of neurofeedback in mental health and addiction

In this episode, Sue and Mike are joined by Blake Ausmus, a Registered Psychologist in Alberta. He is the owner of Sano State Health Clinic and has clinics in both Calgary and St. Albert. Blake has been practicing biofeedback and Neurofeedback therapy in Calgary since 2014. Blake is passionate about technologies and how they can be implemented in therapy. He has been trained in several different types of Neurofeedback and, as a result, clients of Sano State have access to cutting-edge therapies that are non-invasive, but very effective, to support treatment.

This past year (2021), HUM has introduced neurofeedback and biofeedback therapy for mental health, addiction and chronic pain issues. The goal of neurofeedback is to give you the tools you need to re-establish neural equilibrium, diminish unhealthy thought patterns, and help you retrain your mind. In short, it helps you and your brain self-regulate more efficiently and effectively. When your brain cells (neurons) convey information to one another, they generate electrical impulses called brainwaves. When there is optimal balance of low-frequency brainwave patterns and mid-to-high-frequency patterns and your brain wave patterns are balanced, you’re more likely to feel centered, clear and calm.  When your brain waves are off balance, the effects will have an impact on your brain and give rise to any number of mood problems, behavioral issues, and functional challenges such as increased anxiety, rumination, “busy brain”, difficulty with focus/attention, feelings of depression, and memory issues.