Interactive Imagery and Alpha Theta Training

 

In my work, with pain and cancer patients, I will often use a combination of Alpha Theta and Interactive Guided Imagery, dealing with chronic trauma and healing.

Imagery

Imagery is the encoding language of the unconscious mind, and it conveys critical and relevant information about beliefs, attitudes, emotions, motivations, and behaviors.  Imagery also has powerful physiological consequences which are directly related to the healing systems of the body.

Interactive Imagerysm uses a simple relaxation technique to help one focus attention on one’s own personal inner world.  By inviting images to form that are related to issues in one’s life, information and resources are accessed that can be powerfully therapeutic. 

The Interactive Imagerysm guide uses non-judgmental, content-free language to help assist in developing awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily responses which enables one to play a more active role in the healing process.

“Physically, imagery has the ability to directly influence the autonomic nervous system, and the power of imagination can be recruited to promote specific physiological changes as an aid to healing. In addition, many studies indicate that certain imagery techniques may stimulate physiologic processes including immune and endocrine responses which can accelerate the healing process.” www.academyforguidedimagery.com

 Since everyone is a unique individual with a unique set of problems, symptoms, and strengths, the number of sessions is variable.  It is possible that traumatic insights and strong emotions may be uncovered as part of the therapeutic process.  While some issues or conditions may be resolved after only a few sessions, others may require longer periods of work.

While most of the work is done in session, “ownwork” is an important part of the process.  This may involve continuing imagery at home, or taking action based on insights, as well as, journal writing, scrapbook keeping or drawing.  It is a very participatory process, and continued personal involvement increases the benefits.

www.imageryinternational.org/
www.thehealingmind.org
www.integrativeimagery.com - Integrative Imagery Training for Healthcare Professionals

 

Alpha Theta Training

Another aspect of neurofeedback is Alpha Theta training.  This training takes the client to a deep state, short of sleep, holding them there for access to and resolution of learned behaviors ( fears, habits) chronic trauma ( pain, PTSD) or even physiological healing. It is most often done after a series of sessions with awake - state training used to improve self regulation of brain states. 

Alpha brainwaves are smooth, high-voltage brainwaves in the frequency range of 9-13 Hertz. Some research suggests that alpha brainwaves are associated with a subjective state of relaxed alertness or tranquillity
The theta rhythm state is defined as a dominance for 4-7 Hertz brainwaves. Transient elevation of theta occur during Zen meditation or while entering the early stages of sleep and are reported to be associated with vivid visualization, imagery and dream-like states. The origin of theta waves is predominately the hippocampus although theta activity can be recorded throughout the cortex and cerebellum

Historical Information
http://www.enhancementinstitute.com/neuropublished.html
http://www.aaets.org/article47.htm

Working with Alpha-Theta

Working with Alpha-Theta
Conversations with Experienced Alpha-Theta Clinicians
with Caroline Grierson and Evvy Shapero

Adding Alpha-Theta to an established Neurofeedback training protocol is an effective and powerful way to help your clients address early childhood traumas, maladaptive behaviors, poor attachment, learned fears, phobias and habits. This eyes-closed, deep-state training allows clients to process and resolve deep psychological issues without traumatic re-experiencing.

In this DVD, you will hear from two experienced Neurofeedback clinicians who regularly incorporate Alpha-Theta as part of their training protocols.

 

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