Mark and Loni Ellis: Helping Our Community Through Biofeedback

Mark and Loni Ellis have a goal for each person that walks into their Biofeedback office in Eagle: to help the body achieve wholeness and wellness on its own. That is what all of us would like to accomplish, isn't it? Biofeedback holds the key to reaching that goal.

What is Biofeedback? Think of it as exercise for the brain. With proper challenging performance enhancements and training, the brain adapts and eventually learns to improve its own performance, to think faster, to handle stress, and to function at a higher optimum rate. Mark and Loni Ellis specialize in what is called neurofeedback of the biofeedback, which strengthens particular areas of the brain to strengthen overall brain function.

Since 1999, Mark and Loni have been helping people inside and outside of our community to allow them to be all they can be without chemical side effects of medications. How does it work? In the beginning, an interview is completed between the clinician and client. A complete family health history, picture of goals, lifestyle, and symptoms are obtained, and then an individualized program is set up. When sessions begin, one or more sensors are placed on the scalp, then one on each ear. Brain waves are then monitored by an amplifier, then a computer-based instrument processes the signal and provides proper feedback. Eventually, the brain responds to and learns from the cues given, and then a new brain wave pattern takes place. There are four different brain wave states: Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta. "We want people to be functioning in the Beta state", Loni explains. This is a conscious waking state where we are able to allow our left and right brain to speak to one another about problem solving processes. Alpha state is akin to having a "cat-nap", enabling subconscious material to surface. Theta consists of a deep "Rapid Eye Movement" similar to a deep meditative state. And Delta is a state where our brain can be compared to being on "auto pilot", where it remains quiet and recharging. Clients are monitored and depending upon where they begin, the brain eventually moves closer to the Beta.

"We've had 100% success with Biofeedback treatments of our clients", Loni stated. "People come here as a last resort, not knowing what else to do or where to go. We had Walsh and Associates of Nampa, a halfway home for young adults with mental retardation, come to us to help these young adults deal with anger and frustration. The results were amazing and out of twelve, four were able to hold down jobs."

Biofeedback will not replace what is broken but will accommodate the brain to its full potential and allow connections to be strengthened. Mark and Loni Ellis have helped over five hundred clients which include people who have not slept in years to finally having some peace and normalcy in sleep habits. Biofeedback can treat ADD/ADHD, alcoholism, depression, anxiety, stress, learning disabilities, drug addiction, and smoking cessation just to name a few. Loni addressed, "Biofeedback does not replace medicine; there is a place for everything in the medical world, but Biofeedback works hand in hand with awareness of bodily nutrition, counseling, and therapy. They all compliment each other. However, this alternative is non-invasive, painless, and does not require medication or chemicals." Twelve to thirty-six visits are usually needed. Visits are broken down into two sets of twelve that last for one hour. Maintenance programs can be set up after treatment is done. "Because we are in this business to help people, our fees are much lower", Loni explained. Fees are $65.00 per hour plus a $55.00 pre-pay as opposed to other offices that charge as high as $150.00 per hour session.

Mark and Loni want to bring this good news about Biofeedback to the community of Eagle and let Eagle know there are options and hope. They want to "spread the knowledge of these alternative methods to help people overcome challenges and to feel renewed. Their main prerogative is to help others reach a healthy and happy state. For Mark and Loni Ellis, they love to see happiness on their clients faces when they have overcome a struggle. They love to see amazement on parents' faces as they watch their child overcome aggression or depression. It's in their hearts to help people in need, a fulfillment to them and fulfillment in our community.