When searching for the fundamental definition of positive mental health and well-being, few rival Dr. Alfred Adler’s theory purporting the importance of Gemeinschaftsgefühl, meaning “social interest, social feeling, community sense, community feeling and humanistic identification.” Adler was Sigmund Freud’s contemporary in Vienna, Austria, at the beginning of the 20th century, but his theory differed significantly and focused on social connectedness as the way to strengthen individuals’ psychological condition. The theory maintains that the ultimate expression of social interest lies in the cooperative, productive, and progressive activity within the context of empathetic relationships. Hence, true growth only lies in the context …

Anxiety disorders affect nearly a third of the U.S. population (NIMH, 2017). Symptoms of anxiety can range from inconvenient to debilitating, adding to the importance of research into effective treatments for the disorder. Of these treatments, biofeedback, particularly neurofeedback, has emerged as a viable option. Numerous studies (Singer, 2004; Kerson, Sherman, & Kozlowski, 2009; Walker, 2009; Scheinost et al., 2013) demonstrate the anxiety-reducing effects of neurofeedback interventions. They are not, however, without their limitations. A common trend among neurofeedback interventions is the use of “canned”, or pre-programmed, protocols designed to treat specific symptoms. While this method is convenient, critics argue …