No. 91 – April 3, 2014 – Drinking and Drugs are 'coping skills,' according to Dr. Granoff

by Melinda Pillsbury-Foster

Dr. Granoff says his most dramatic case was treating a woman who came to him for talk therapy for what he eventually realized was Associative Identity Disorder. If you have read the book, Sybil, you know this is popularly called multiple personalities.

His patient, 'Norah,' had been seeing Dr. Granoff regularly when suddenly, during a session, her demeanor changed, shifting from extreme anxiety to entirely cool. It was so fast Dr. Granoff took note. It began happening more and more frequently.

'Norah' had been seeing Dr. David Granoff, a Clinical Psychologist, for some time, continuing to be riddled with extreme anxiety, based in her earlier life, which made it impossible her her to sleep. She was drinking heavily. Addiction to alcohol, drugs and other destructive behaviors are, according to Dr. Granoff 'coping skills,' things people do when they cannot otherwise function at all due to anxiety.

Dr. David Granoff has practiced as a Clinical Psychologist since 1999. Prior to beginning his practice he was an adjunct professor at Cleveland State University and a school psychologist at Villa Angela – St. Joseph High School.

Dr. Granoff suggested 'Norah' allow him to treat her using Neurofeedback in addition to traditional talk therapy. He had begun using the technique for boys referred to him with symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) or Bipolar Disorder. A colleague suggested this would held settle the boys down. It worked.

Dr. Granoff added Neurofeedback to his practice, becoming a Zengar Certified Trainer. One of his offices is on Chagrin Blvd, in Beachwear OH. His practice includes children, adolescents and adults in individual, family and couples therapy.

The first Neurofeedback session caused 'Norah' extreme anxiety. Then, afterward she reported being able to sleep, a stunning and positive change. Over the next two years 'Norah' received 15 – 20 Neurofeedback sessions. She came to view these as pleasurable and relaxing.

Today, 'Norah' is far better able to function in life. She is drinking less.

Added to his practice, n​eurofeedback became a valuable tool, one which allowed David to better help his patients.

Veterans returning from combat, traumatized by PTSD, children exhibiting symptoms of ADHD, facing expulsion from school or being medicated. People like 'Norah.' Neurofeedback works. Using it lets Dr. Granoff alleviate their suffering, allowing them fuller lives.

Veterans take note, Dr. Granoff offers one session free a week to vets in need. Call him.