submitted by Maria Di Donato DEd, BCN, PA Licensed Psychologist, PA/NJ Certified School Psychologist
Josie, not her real name, an adult woman from Hamilton Township, had much difficulty with keeping jobs, maintaining relationships, and having a good quality of life.
Despite the many therapists and therapies over the years, she was unable to make progress. Instead, she reported crying often in her sessions.
She reported having difficulty connecting with people. Because she was unsuccessful with many medications, she felt stuck with her situation.
She described having “involuntary movements” and vocalization problems where her voice would change whenever she was nervous.nShe also reported having a learning disability and being bullied at school.
Despite a college degree, these problems caused difficulty obtaining and keeping a job. Sadly, she commented, people called her a “weirdo” because she could not find a job.
Josie was very frustrated with many aspects of her life, but she was very motivated to move ahead, and seek help, refusing to give up.
During her initial interview along with the results of the trials of neurofeedback, it became evident that her difficulties were severe anxiety and multiple tics.
Once treatment had begun, she noticed progress.nOver time, her motor tics and her vocal tics were reduced significantly which resulted in a decrease in negative attention to her.
She felt encouraged in her job search.nAfter a few weeks of treatment, she managed to complete a satisfactory interview process and was given a job offer.
All of this was minus the distracting and derailing effects of the tics. Josie was very happy that she could finally begin to make something of her life and be independent.
She continues to maintain satisfactory effort in her job without the distracting and disruptive effects of her tics.nHer anxiety is greatly reduced due to the benefits of neurotherapy and counseling.
Essentially, neurotherapy improves the brain while counseling manages the mind. She is happy maintaining satisfactory work performance at her job.