Alpha-Stim® Treatment

What is Alpha-Stim®?

Alpha-Stim is a small, handheld medical device that provides cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES). It is an FDA approved treatment for anxiety and insomnia and has also been found to help relieve symptoms of depression. CES is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation that applies a patented, low amplitude waveform to the brain via earclip electrodes. It is NOT shock therapy and does not hurt. It provides rapid, effective, and long lasting relief. Alpha-Stim devices have been on the market since 1982 and has over 100 clinical studies proving it’s effectiveness.

There are two different devices, the Alpha-Stim Aid which only does CES and treats the brain, and the Alpha-Stim M which also includes Microcurrent Electrical Therapy (MET) to treat pain in addition to CES. In office, we will be using the Alpha-Stim Aid.

How does it work?

CES modulates cortical oscillations in the temporal lobe and stimulates key cranial nerves, which together helps to normalize pathological signaling in the default mode network (DMN) of the brain. The DMN is a group of brain regions that become activated when a person is engaged in internal thought processes instead of paying attention to external stimuli. It is active during daydreaming and self-reflection among other thought processes. Dysfunction in the default mode network has been found to be connected to anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social anxiety. The dysfunction increases rumination and perseveration of thoughts.

Alpha-Stim has also been shown to increase alpha brain waves which are associated with a calmer, more relaxed state of mind. Alpha waves can help you enter a flow state, increase creativity, reduce stress hormones, improve focus, and promote the release of serotonin in the brain. For those who would like to meditate, but have difficulty, the Alpha-Stim can help.

Contraindications & Side Effects

The only contraindications for use of Alpha-Stim are pregnancy and if you have an implanted medical device such as a pacemaker or defibrillator.

Possible side effects are rare, mild, and self-limiting and include:

  • Mild headache
  • Dizziness or nausea if used on too high of an intensity
  • Skin irritation at the site of the electrodes

Treatment Options

Alpha-Stim can be used during moments of stress in order to achieve a more relaxed state and even to help prevent a panic attack. EMDR clients processing especially distressing memories can benefit from concurrent use of the Alpha-Stim to help with regulation during processing. Most client’s report that they continue to feel the effects throughout the rest of the day. For a long lasting impact, however, multiple sessions are needed as it has a cumulative effect and needs to build up in your system.

*Please note that all individuals who are not active clients will need to be seen by a therapist before use as Alpha-Stim is a medical device and we will need to determine appropriateness of use and possibly write a prescription.

In-session

Alpha-Stim is available for use for therapy clients during their scheduled session with Jessica (if you are a client of Staci’s, please ask ahead to see if the device will be available during your session), at no additional cost. Due to the increased benefit of regular use, we offer two options for additional use outside of session.

In-office

Current therapy clients can book a time to use the Alpha-Stim outside of their therapy appointment to achieve better and more long lasting results. If you are not an established/current client, an intake will need to be scheduled in order to review consents, complete a short assessment, and train you on the Alpha-Stim device. Follow up sessions may be scheduled to review your progress and help update treatment planning.

  • 45 min intake or follow up session $75
  • 40 min Alpha-Stim Aid use in office $15

Rentals

Want to be able to use the Alpha-Stim daily and outside of our office hours? A 30 day rental may be a great and affordable option. If you are not a current client, you will need to schedule a 45 min intake as mentioned above.

  • 30 Day Rental of Alpha-Stim Aid $150
    • Refundable Deposit $100
  • 30 Day Rental of Alpha-Stim M $175
    • Refundable Deposit $125

Purchase

Love the Alpha-Stim and want to own it? We can provide the necessary prescription and sell the device to you. Applicable session fees may apply depending on the situation.

  • Alpha-Stim Aid $840
  • Alpha-Stim M $1299

Tutorial Videos can be found here.