Why YOU should be doing Alpha/Theta training

Let me start by saying that Alpha/Theta training is my absolute favorite type of neurofeedback training both personally and professionally. Why? Well, for me it’s because it combines two of my favorite things, deep state meditation PLUS neurofeedback! Hell yes. Its super versatile and applicable to literally everyone. While it’s been shown through research to be helpful with addictions and trauma it can also be very helpful in “peak performance” or in helping you level-up your life.

So what is Alpha/Theta training?

Alpha waves are generally associated with a calm, non-thinking state of mind. When we meditate, we produce elevated alpha waves. Theta waves are produced when we are even more relaxed and on the verge of sleep, also called a “twilight state”. Theta waves help us transition into Delta waves for deep sleep. Beta waves are produced when we are alert and awake. When we make the transition from Beta (awake) to Alpha (relaxed) to Theta (deeply relaxed) and then hold our brain in this relaxed pattern with neurofeedback, we create a state of mind that mixes reality with the subconscious, we are “held” in a twilight pre-sleep state. The way I explain it to clients is that we are “turning up” the subconscious mind and “turning down” the conscious/thinking mind.

Why is Alpha/Theta beneficial?

Eliciting this twilight state is known to be very powerful and healing. Alpha/Theta training creates a bridge between our inner and outer worlds and allows us to process things in a very new way. Clients often experience striking imagery and deep insights. For those though have experienced trauma, it can often be re-experienced in a very safe and comforting way. There has been research that has shown great success with Alpha/Theta training in treating trauma and substance use issues. Interesting fact, those who have issues with substance use often report the “Peniston effect” (Peniston was a researcher who studied Alpha/Theta in treating alcoholics), where they begin to experience negative side effects or “an allergic reaction” from alcohol and drugs when they use them.

I personally love to use Alpha/Theta training to work towards my individual dreams and goals. I use this often with clients as well. Essentially, we create a script where we are envisioning our ideal life and using Alpha/Theta to allow our subconscious mind to work through any underlying mental barriers or blockages that are standing in the way of us reaching our goals. Very powerful stuff.

Some considerations for Alpha/Theta training.

Firstly, this should only ever be conducted by a trained and licensed mental health clinician. Stuff comes up and you need a professional who is equipped and trained to help you work through it. Secondly, this approach is not for those in crisis, it is best suited for those who have first been stabilized through talk therapy, relaxation skills training, EMDR, neurofeedback, biofeedback or some combination of these approaches. We typically introduce Alpha/Theta training when a client has been working with us for at least 10 sessions or more.

Sounds pretty interesting doesn’t it? If you’re someone who loves to gain personal insight and is interested in moving forward from some “stuck” place in your life, you may want to consider trying this unique approach to therapy!

Written by: Britney Cirullo, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, BCN