Alpha-Stim a Safe Alternative in the Treament of Insomnia, Depression, and Anxiety

At Kentlands Psychotherapy in Gaithersburg, MD, we are proud to offer Alpha-Stim as a treatment option to our patients. Alpha-Stim is a therapeutic device that uses cranial electrical stimulation (CES) to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and some pain disorders. The device is roughly the size of a cell phone. The patient clips the device to their earlobes and receives a low electrical current that cannot be felt. After your psychiatrist in Gaithersburg, MD teaches you how to use it, home treatment is often recommended.

Despite over 40 years of research and dozens of studies, the exact way Alpha-Stim works isn’t known. The theory is that it stimulates the nerves that produce neurotransmitters associated with mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. It also seems to slightly lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone, and stimulate the production of melatonin, which aids sleep. With success rates as high as 90 percent reported, it seems that regardless of how it works, it is an effective treatment for certain mental health conditions. Alpha-Stim is also a cost-effective treatment when you compare it to prescription medications. Pharmaceuticals must be constantly refilled, making them expensive over time. Additionally, prescriptions often lose effectiveness over time as you develop a tolerance.The Alpha-Stim is a one-time upfront cost, and actually becomes more effective over time.

If you are feeling frustrated with your current treatment for anxiety, depression, or insomnia, Alpha-Stim may provide the change you need.

Here is an article describing one writers experience using Alpha Stim to treat her Anxiety.

If you are interested in being treated with the Alpha Stim device, contact Dr. Elizabeth Carr at Kentlands Psychotherapy today at (240) 252-3349 Ext. 801.

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