Wei Zhang, MA graduated from Teachers College, Columbia University, with dual master’s degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Counseling. She is an Advanced Certified Neurofeedback Trainer.
Wei has extensive experience working with adolescents, young adults, and young professionals in the performing arts industry. As a limited permit therapist working towards full licensure, she is passionate about integrating technology into therapy to create a more holistic practice for clients.
Specialties
Neurotherapy or neurofeedback for children and adults.
- ADHD in children and adults
- Anxiety, depression, PTSD and
- Concussion and brain injury recovery
- Peak performance
- Stress reduction and sleep management.
Wei Zhang is a licensed-eligible mental health counselor (MHC-LP) based in
New York City, with extensive experience in various therapeutic settings,
including schools, community centers, and private practice. She holds two
master’s degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Psychological Counseling
from Columbia University and has worked with diverse populations. At The
American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), Wei gained significant
experience supporting young adults as they navigated critical developmental
stages, addressing mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression,
trauma, ADHD, and panic attacks. She also provided a safe space to discuss
challenges stemming from adverse childhood experiences and family
dynamics.
Rooted in relational therapy, Wei’s counseling approach integrates evidence-
based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical
Behavior Therapy (DBT), alongside holistic methods. She draws on Internal
Family Systems (IFS), neurofeedback, and Buddhist philosophy to foster
healing, personal growth, and self-regulation. Wei is also certified in Level 1 &
2 of the Gottman Method for Couples Work.
Wei has a deep passion for performance psychology, with experience
working with both stage performers and athletes. She has collaborated with
local sports academies to enhance the mental resilience, performance, and
well-being of student-athletes, making her a valuable resource in both
performing arts and athletic environments. In all her work, Wei is committed
to helping clients explore their inner selves, overcome challenges, and thrive
personally and professionally. She offers counseling, neurofeedback
sessions, and workshops designed to promote mental clarity, resilience, and
overall well-being.
Neurofeedback Therapy
Who benefits from neurofeedback?
Common conditions I see in the office are: anxiety, chronic stress, ADHD, depression, sleep management, trauma recovery, concussions, Long COVID brain fog, and for peak performance.
Often doctors will refer patients with high stress, perhaps after a panic attack, to help manage stress. Neurofeedback is an essential tool for down-shifting the stress response, out of anxiety and the fight/flight reaction, into regulation.
I also see a lot of referrals from therapists who want their trauma clients to have the support of neurofeedback while doing their psychotherapy. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, leading trauma expert, in his book, The Body Keeps the Score, has done a lot to educate therapists and trauma/PTSD clients about the role of neurofeedback in treating the anxiety and depression in PTSD.
Training results vary because every brain is different. But in general, the results from neurofeedback are noticed usually within the first month and many see a significant shift in symptoms within three months of regular sessions. Like with any tool we introduce to help the brain function better, the more supports that are in place, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, the better the outcomes.
Clients experience improvements in emotional regulation such as reduced anxiety and a greater sense of relaxation. Additionally, they notice enhanced mental clarity and focus, along with better memory retention and the ability to sustain concentration for longer periods. These emotional and cognitive shifts positively impact quality of sleep, decision-making, motivation, and productivity. Overall, these transformations lead to reduced symptoms and greater wellbeing.
Home neurofeedback: why do clients decide to rent a system?
Renting a home neurofeedback system is more cost-effective and gives clients the flexibility to train more frequently on their own schedule. While clients typically train once per week in the office, they are training up to 3+ times a week on the rental.
Once clients see how easy the self hook-up is, and that the home system is the same professional unit we use in our office many decide to train at home. Renting a system also allows for multiple family members to train during the rental program. As with most families, if there is one member with significant symptoms the rest can still benefit. Parents can benefit from lowering their stress and sleeping better, and children can improve focus and emotional regulation. When family members train together, there’s an additive effect that enhances the overall benefits for everyone because nervous systems are connected. As example, if a parent is calmer, the child is often calmer.
What additional supports do you recommend to enhance the benefits of neurofeedback?
Increasing your understanding of neurofeedback can truly enhance the outcomes of your training. This knowledge, including the workings of neurofeedback and the advantages it provides, can instill a stronger sense of dedication, regularity, and enthusiasm throughout a client’s journey. It’s important to remember that neurofeedback is just one among many tools, thus advocating for an all-encompassing approach which includes several healthful habits. A balanced diet enriched with brain-boosting foods, along with routine exercise, forms an integral part of this plan. Most people begin their journey with neurofeedback, and as they witness improvements in emotional balance and cognitive capabilities like concentration, they naturally begin to incorporate other supportive practices for the brain. This typically evolves into a seamless and organic routine.
The benefits of neurofeedback therapy are increasingly recognized due to its holistic, non-invasive nature, and minimal side effects.
Interested in a free 15-minute consultation with Wei?
Text Wei at: 347-676-0184