If you suffer from arachnophobia (fear of spiders), there’s hope: A new treatment plan from NAU has shown promising results.

Groundbreaking research at Northern Arizona University is offering new hope for people paralyzed by their fear of spiders. Using advanced brain monitoring technology and just six therapy sessions, researchers are demonstrating remarkable success in treating arachnophobia through an innovative approach called neurofeedback.

Revolutionary treatment approach shows promising results

A team of 16 undergraduate researchers, led by Professor Larry Stevens and student lab managers Skylar Wilcoxson and Annalene Thompson, is conducting pioneering research using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) to help participants overcome their fear of spiders. According to the NAU Review, the study employs a sophisticated 19-electrode system to monitor brain activity with unprecedented precision.

“With only six sessions, we’re seeing statistically significant changes,” says Wilcoxson, whose military background helped secure a Student Veteran Research Opportunity grant for the project. “We want to use that evidence to show that neurofeedback can apply to a range of situations.”

Inside the treatment process

Participants who score high on an arachnophobia assessment undergo a series of monitored sessions in the university’s Student Academic Services building. The process begins with baseline brain activity measurements, followed by exposure to “Spidey” – the lab’s resident tarantula – while researchers track the participant’s anxiety neural network responses.

What sets this research apart is its use of real-time feedback through a unique “green dot” system. Participants can see their own brain activity on a 3D monitor, with the green dot appearing when anxiety levels decrease. This visual feedback helps them identify and develop effective calming strategies.

A gentler approach to phobia treatment

Unlike traditional therapy methods that often require patients to confront traumatic memories, this neurofeedback approach offers a less invasive alternative. Hope Kalvelage, a junior psychology major working as a clinician coach, notes that participants have found success through various personalized relaxation techniques, from simple daydreaming to focusing on pleasant thoughts.

“There are many different ways two different people with similar mental health issues, conditions or diagnoses can receive treatment,” Kalvelage told the NAU Review. “One treatment might be effective for one person, and it might not be effective for the other.”

The research team employs sophisticated mathematical algorithms to analyze brain activity data, providing insights that match the precision of MRI scans but with faster results. As Professor Stevens explains, “EEGs rely on electrons, which are faster than blood. We can capture changes over thousandths of a second with an EEG, whereas with an MRI, it’s more like a minute or two.”

While final results are expected in summer, early data suggests this innovative approach could revolutionize treatment for various phobias and anxiety disorders.

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