# data[].attributes.body
Prism, developed by GrayMatters Health, is a novel self-neuromodulation technology designed as a drug-free, non-invasive treatment for mental health conditions. It has been FDA approved for PTSD and is now being adapted for depression. GrayMatters Health's team developed proprietary digital biomarkers by using machine learning models to analyze fMRI and EEG data in areas of the brain like the amygdala (GrayMatters Health, 2025).

While wearing EEG sensors, patients engage with interactive computer simulations where the environment responds in real time to their brain activity. For example, animated characters in a crowded scene may become quieter or calmer as the patient successfully regulates their neural activity. Through repeated sessions, individuals learn personalized mental strategies to gain better control over stress and mood responses (GrayMatters Health, 2025).

Clinical studies have shown promising results. For PTSD, two-thirds of participants experienced significant symptom improvement. Nearly one-third reached remission, and benefits appear to be lasting months after treatment. For depression, early pilot studies demonstrated meaningful reductions in symptoms, improved motivation and reward processing, and high patient satisfaction. Prisms represents an innovating approach to mental health care that goes beyond medication and traditional talk therapy (Tendler, 2025).

# data[].attributes.headline
Amygdala-Based EFP Biomarker with Talma Hendler, MD, PhD

# data[].attributes.subject
Amygdala-Based EFP Biomarker with Talma Hendler, MD, PhD

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Amygdala-based EFP Biomarker with Talma Hendler MD PhD

# data[].attributes.body
Non-invasive and drug-free: Prism offers a treatment option without medication side effects or risks of invasive neuromodulation, such as ECT or deep brain stimulation. It also helps patients avoid re-living trauma, which can sometimes be triggered by talk therapy.

FDA approved for PTSD: Regulatory clearance adds legitimacy, which can help build patient trust.

Promising clinical outcomes: studies have shown strong results including symptom improvement and high patient satisfaction rates.

Personalized self-regulation: Treatment is highly patient-centered since patients develop their own mental strategies to regulate brain activity. This promotes long-term skill development and autonomy.

Engaging format: The game-like, interactive simulation can be more attractive to those intimidated by traditional therapies. It also may be more appealing to younger patients or those interested in technology.

Accessibility compared to fMRI: fMRI alone is bulky, and expensive, and not widely accessible. Combining fMRI and EEG with machine learning has cut the cost and improved accessibility so treatment can be done in outpatient clinical settings. It appears to be a treatment that could be done at home in the future after further research and development.

(GrayMatters Health, 2025; Tendler, 2025)

# data[].attributes.body
Current limited accessibility: Prism treatment must currently be delivered in-person at a clinic with specialized equipment. This limits its reach compared to Telehealth or app-based treatment options. This could change if it developed enough to be adapted to in-home use.

Patient suitability: This treatment works best for mild to moderate depression. Patients still need to have some level of motivation in order to show up in-person to the clinics for a series of treatments. Someone with severe depression or anhedonia may not be compliant with showing up for treatments.

Reliance on proprietary technology: The algorithms and biomarkers are owned exclusively by GrayMatters Health, which creates the potential for a monopoly on this kind of treatment. If a single company controls access, costs may rise and innovation could be slowed.

Data privacy and security concerns: Prism relies on EEG recordings, machine learning algorithms, and sensitive mental health information. Storing this data raises concerns about cybersecurity, confidentiality, and long-term data ownership. Any data breach or misuse could compromise patient privacy, violate HIPAA, and erode trust in the technology.

Patient sensory/trauma issues: Wearing EEG headgear may feel restrictive or uncomfortable, particularly for patients with sensory sensitivities or a history of trauma. For some patients, the sensation of electrodes on the scalp or the enclosed setup of the equipment could trigger feelings of claustrophobia, hyper vigilance, or distress, making it harder to engage in treatment.

Time-intensive: The standard protocol requires about 15 sessions, which can be a significant time commitment for patients balancing work, family, or transportation barriers.

(GrayMatters Health, 2025; Tendler, 2025)

# data[].attributes.body
In my opinion, Prism represents a highly useful and promising innovation in the treatment of mental health conditions. As a psychiatric nurse, I have seen firsthand the challenges patients face when current options such as medication or trauma-focused therapies are not effective or tolerable. Prism provides a non-invasive, drug-free alternative that empowers patients to take an active role in regulating their own brain activity. This makes it especially valuable for individuals who may be hesitant about medication side effects or retraumatization during traditional talk therapy.

The technology also aligns with current trends in patient-centered care by focusing on self-regulation, skill development, and long-term resilience. Clinical studies have shown meaningful improvements in PTSD and depression symptoms. Although more research is needed with larger sample sizes, Prism’s innovative use of digital biomarkers and its engaging format makes it a worthwhile advancement in psychiatric care. I believe it holds significant potential to improve outcomes for patients who might otherwise struggle to find effective treatment.

# data[].attributes.body
Angelica (Analytical): She will ensure our enthusiasm for Prism is grounded in evidence by reviewing data, outcomes, and costs, giving our proposal credibility with leadership. Her perspective will help us anticipate tough questions and present a well-reasoned case for adoption.

Abraham (Arranger): His ability to coordinate people and resources will be key for scheduling sessions, training staff, and integrating Prism smoothly into clinic workflows.

Emily (Empathy): She will focus on patient and staff experience, helping us address concerns about comfort, trauma triggers, or anxiety with the new technology.

Isaac (Ideation): His creativity will generate new ideas for how Prism can fit into different treatment settings, which I can refine to ensure excellence and practicality. His innovative thinking also opens possibilities for scaling Prism across programs as our organization grows.

Fernando (Focus): He will provide structure and keep us on track with timelines, balancing my flexibility and ensuring Prism is implemented on schedule.

# data[].attributes.body
Harmony: This strength will help minimize conflict and keep the team focused on collaboration as we evaluate Prism. By fostering a consensus, I can ensure discussions remain productive and respectful even when opinions differ.

Positivity: My optimism will keep the team motivated and engaged during the challenges of implementing a new technology. This outlook will also help build excitement among staff and patients about Prism's potential.

Maximizer: I will encourage the team to refine good ideas into excellent ones. This will help us implement Prism in a way that achieves the strongest outcomes possible.

Consistency: This strength will help establish fair and reliable processes for how Prism is integrated into practice. By valuing equity, I can ensure that the treatment is applied consistently across patient populations.

Adaptability: My flexibility will allow me to adjust quickly when unexpected challenges arise during Prism's rollout. This will help the team stay resilient and responsive throughout the implementation process.