Brain Mapping in Memphis

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Brain mapping is an advanced form of addiction and mental health treatment that allows providers to locate various problem areas in the brain. This allows for a greater level of precision when it comes to identifying opportunities for improving communication between pathways in the brain, something that can be disrupted with significant substance abuse or addiction.

At Grace Land Recovery, we are proud to offer a range of cutting-edge addiction treatment programs and therapies for our clients. We are one of the only addiction treatment centers in the area to specialize in these advanced techniques, as well as one of the only ones in Memphis to provide such a wide variety of treatment options.

If you would like to learn more about our Memphis brain mapping services, or any of our therapies, please contact us at (901) 519-2655 today.

We Believe in Treating the Individual, Not Just the Addiction

What Is Brain Mapping?

In the context of substance abuse and addiction treatment, brain mapping is a type of therapeutic treatment that uses advanced technology to evaluate the patient’s brain waves. Brain waves are messages created by electrical impulses that are sent and received by neurons between various regions of the brain and different parts of the body.

There are five main types of brain waves:

  • Alpha Brain Waves: Alpha brain waves occur when the brain is in a relaxed and/or resting state. These brain waves are typically seen when the individual is quiet, calm, and thoughtful.
  • Beta Brain Waves: Beta brain waves are seen when the individual is alert and/or actively solving problems. These are the most common type of brain wave during waking hours.
  • Delta Brain Waves: Delta brain waves are the slowest type of brain wave and are associated with regeneration and healing. They are commonly viewed during mediation or dreamless sleep.
  • Gamma Brain Waves: Gamma brain waves are the fastest type of brain wave. They are associated with intense focus, receptivity, and higher levels of consciousness.
  • Theta Brain Waves: Theta brain waves are associated with sleep and relaxation, but they are more commonly seen when the individual is dreaming or inwardly focused.

By scanning and mapping brain activity, addiction treatment specialists can identify patterns, locate areas of concern, and create a visual picture of the patient’s brain activity.

Types of Brain Mapping

There are actually several different types of brain mapping, or neuro mapping, treatments. These treatments are used for different medical and therapeutic purposes.

Some examples of different types of brain mapping include:

  • Computer Axial Tomography (CAT) Scans: Commonly known as CAT scans, computer axial tomography scans are x-rays of the brain that reveal structural abnormalities by producing an overall picture of the brain based on multiple angles. CAT scans are most commonly used to diagnose brain injuries, abnormalities, and other physical brain issues.
  • Structural Magnetic Resonance Imaging: SMR imaging is an advanced form of brain mapping that uses existing water in the brain to create a visual scan that is higher in quality and resolution than most standard CAT scans.
  • Diffusion Tensor-MRI (DTI) Images: This technique also uses existing water in the brain, looking at its movement, specifically, to create images of various connective fibers in the brain. This is most commonly used to medically map the brain prior to surgery.

Various forms of brain mapping have been around for decades, but it is still a relatively new therapy in the world of addiction treatment and mental health services. However, studies have shown that it can be incredibly helpful in assisting patients on the road to recovery, as it can allow professionals to identify withdrawal before symptoms begin, understand triggers and cravings, and customize treatment programs based on an individual’s unique neurology.

What Is the Brain Mapping Process?

Brain mapping involves the placement of a specialized cap on the patient’s head. This cap contains small metal discs known as electrodes and is connected to specialized software that detects electrical impulses in the brain and produces a map of brain activity. This type of technology is known as electroencephalography, and the image it produces is known as an electroencephalogram, or EEG.

Electroencephalography is a safe and painless process for the patient. You should avoid drinking caffeine the day of the test, take all usual medications (unless otherwise specified by a doctor), and avoid using hair styling products prior to the test. Keep in mind that our team can help you prepare for the test by providing specific instructions ahead of time.

That being said, here is a general overview of what you can expect from an EEG:

  • You will experience very little discomfort (if any at all) during the test
  • Before the test, a professional technician will measure your head and use a special pencil to mark your scalp where electrodes will be placed
  • The technician will then attach the electrodes to your scalp using a special, non-harmful adhesive. These electrodes will be attached to software via a specialized instrument.
  • You will be instructed to relax with your eyes closed in a comfortable position for the duration of the test, which usually lasts about 60 minutes (one hour). During the test, the technician may ask you to complete various tasks, such as opening or shutting your eyes, reading, looking at a picture, or breathing deeply.
  • Your test may include a video recording of your movements. This can serve to provide extra context and information for your doctor.

Once the test is complete, the technician will remove the electrodes and cap. Unless you have been given sedatives prior to the test, you should not have any side effects.

How Does Brain Mapping for Addiction Treatment Work?

Addiction is a disease that primarily affects the brain. Substance abuse disrupts neurotransmitters’ normal processes and functions, disrupting pathways and disrupting communication between the brain and the body. Specifically, substance abuse and addiction affect the brain’s pleasure center, making it almost impossible for the individual to experience positive feelings without using the substance. This typically drives the individual to continued alcohol or drug use, despite negative consequences in their life.

Brain mapping allows treatment specialists to identify the ways in which a substance use disorder has affected the individual’s brain and adjust treatment accordingly.

Brain mapping for addiction treatment can help professionals identify:

  • Areas of poor communication in the brain
  • Opportunities for improving communication in the brain
  • Withdrawal symptoms, including cravings, before physical manifestation
  • Triggers that may lead to destructive behavior

Brain mapping is a highly specialized type of addiction and mental health treatment. It cannot be preformed in a typical treatment facility. At Grace Land Recovery, we have the equipment, resources, and expertise to provide cutting-edge substance abuse and addiction treatment services to our clients, including brain mapping and imaging technology.

Contact us online using our secure submission form or call (901) 519-2655. All communications are completely confidential.

Reach Out to Grace Land Recovery Today

No matter where you are in your recovery, our team here at Grace Land Recovery can answer your questions and address any concerns you may have. In addition to our Memphis brain mapping services, we offer a full range of dual-diagnosis and primary service treatments for those struggling with all types of substance use disorders and co-occurring mental/behavioral health conditions. In most cases, brain mapping is used alongside other proven therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, for a comprehensive, whole-person approach to recovery.

If you would like to learn more about our brain mapping services or any of our therapies or programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team today.

Our phones are answered 24/7, and we are here to help you determine the best path forward.

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