A whole new world

Levi Anderson is a gift to his family. Adopted at the age of 8 months, Levi, now 16, was diagnosed with moderate autism at the age of 2. The cause is believed to be due to the use of drugs and alcohol by his birth mother when she was pregnant.

Autism is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. Those diagnosed with autism may vary in the way they learn, move, and in their ability to focus.

Levi has always struggled with everyday life situations. Despite his diagnosis, Levi has a sweet demeanor and is loved by many.

Up until nearly a year ago, Levi would communicate in one-word utterances. To calm himself, Levi would often pace and retreat into his mind.

“Levi did not take redirection easily,” shares his mom, Deb. “He would usually respond by taking clothes off and throwing his shoes.”

A couple of years ago, Deb was approached with the idea of having Levi go through neurotherapy treatment. She refused.

"Levi is God's gift to me, and I didn't want him changed," said Deb. "I was worried that Levi's personality would change, and it would affect his happiness and curiosity in the world around him."

After thinking about it for more than a year, Deb decided to have Levi try the treatment. Now, more than eight months later, Deb said Levi’s personality shines even more than she could ever have imagined.

“The results I’m seeing are amazing,” said Deb. “Levi is talking in sentences. He can answer questions and is showing more emotion than he ever has.”

She adds that he is now more self-regulated, can attend to tasks for a longer period, transition to new activities more quickly, and thoroughly enjoys being among family and peers.

Neurotherapy has made Levi happier and more curious, as it has enhanced his ability to communicate better. “In the past, he really wouldn’t answer a question. He’d just look at you,” said Deb. “Now he’s answering a lot of questions with almost a full sentence. He is also more apt to ask questions. The therapy has significantly increased his communication.”

The treatment Levi receives is at North Idaho Neurotherapy in Sandpoint, founded by Dr. Linda Larson, who specializes in psychological health, wellness, and mind-body physiology. She and her team have made a difference in the lives of many who suffer from autism, addiction, depression, traumatic brain injuries, and more.

Typically, the treatment begins with administering a non-invasive, quantitative EEG brain map that allows her and her team to measure, analyze, and quantify brainwaves. However, this is not done with autistic clients, as their sensory issues can make this part of the process intolerable.

"With the EEG, we can not only see the brainwaves under different situations, but we can also see the relationship of the brainwaves to one another, look at the symmetry of the brain, the stability of brainwave relationships, and areas where the brain may be generating signals that may be manifesting itself in problematic symptoms and behaviors," explained Dr. Larson.

Once all of the data is interpreted, a treatment plan can be executed.

“Treatment in our clinic involves neurostimulation, which is often referred to as neuromodulation, and is what makes us unique from other neurofeedback providers,” said Dr. Larson.

To change even more lives for those with autism, North Idaho Neurotherapy is eager to make this treatment available to more people. Larson is hopeful that some in the community will help fund what is being called The Levi Project.

“We recently also started the Tim Project in memory of a young Sandpoint man who struggled with addiction and who passed away after an accidental overdose,” explained Dr. Larson. That project was funded by Tim’s family and is already making a difference in many lives.

“The process for the Levi Project will begin with an initial consultation and assessment process,” explained Dr. Larson. “I and my colleague John DeWig get to know our clients and determine the client’s needs and expectations of therapy. This includes explaining our process and possible solutions, as well as answering any questions.”

Neurotherapy for the Levi Project specifically serves autistic clients. It utilizes a protocol that trains the brain to function in a healthy balance. This process communicates through the brain’s own frequencies and is calming for the client.

“As a participant in the Levi Project, autistic clients will receive neurotherapy. Like with Levi’s therapy, our goal is to improve functionality in everyday living. During the session, our clients can color, play nonviolent, non-stimulating games, or watch a video," said Dr. Larson.

The treatment will typically begin with a two-week intensive therapy session, followed by weekly sessions. Deb shares that she saw results after eight sessions. Levi now receives treatment once a week.

“The treatment is covered by Blue Cross of Idaho,” said Dr. Larson. “If the client does not have Blue Cross, we can send them a bill, which they can submit to their insurance for reimbursement after we have been paid. For those not covered, we want to be able to have this paid by funds from The Levi Project."

Dr. Larson and John DeWig look forward to bringing this treatment to more families through the Levi Project. As for Levi, his mother could not be more thrilled.

“I cannot wait to see where he is in another eight months,” said Deb. “His wonderful personality continues to shine through, and his confidence has grown tremendously.”

To learn more about the Levi Project or donate towards the funding, contact North Idaho Neurotherapy at 208-255-6057. You can also go online to nidnt.com.