Neuralign Review: Is It Effective for Dyslexia?
Amanda Unrau CCC-SLP
February 06, 2024
What is the Neuralign Program? | Neuralign: An SLP’s Review | How We Reviewed the Neuralign Program | Forbrain and Neuralign as Complementary Dyslexia Tools
Neuralign is a cognitive training program for individuals with reading difficulties, such as dyslexia. It targets dyslexia by creating and improving the connections in the brain that are necessary to be a skilled reader. This Neuralign review article will discuss the Neuralign program and share an expert opinion on it.
What is the Neuralign Program?
Neuralign is a multi-sensory cognitive computer training program created by Neuralign Nonprofit that uses audio and visual elements to stimulate the auditory, visual, and vestibular systems. Besides improving overall reading skills, Neuralign also targets phonemic awareness, auditory processing, visual processing, tracking, working memory, graphophonemic knowledge, and language structure.
Basis of the program
Neuralign’s process is based on neuroplasticity. Brain imaging has shown that the brains of those who are poor readers are wired differently. Neuralign uses principles of neuroplasticity to make changes to the brain by stimulating the brain and making new connections between areas of the brain used in reading. The first phase of the program focuses on neural development and the second phase focuses on solidifying the new connections in order to improve reading fluency and comprehension.
Intended clients
The Neuralign Program is designed for individuals 5 years and older. Besides those with dyslexia, it can also benefit individuals with poor auditory processing, poor working memory, poor reading skills, low confidence when reading, difficulty recalling information read, poor control of eye movement, and ESL students.
Components
Neuralign consists of 3 components, with 5 difficulty levels: Cognitive Therapy, Speed Reading, and Reading Exercises. Cognitive Therapy includes 15 hours of games targeting working memory, executive function, and auditory and visual processing pathways. Speed Reading keeps track of improvement and reinforces the network of brain connections for reading being made. Reading Exercises help improve reading comprehension skills by targeting memory, spatial awareness, and word construction.
Protocol
Neuralign has a specific protocol to follow in order for users to get the best results. The program takes 40 hours to complete. All 40 hours are to be completed within 4 months, although it can be completed faster.
The Cognitive Training section consists of 15 one-hour sessions that should be completed within 5 weeks. This can be done in a variety of ways: 3 times a week for 5 weeks, 4 times a week for 3.5 weeks, 5 times a week for 3 weeks, or over 15 consecutive days.
The Speed Reading section consists of 10 one-minute sessions that are to be completed 5 days a week for 10 weeks.
There are also Additional Reading Exercises and games. The amount of time these take to complete depends on their difficulty level. These exercises typically take 20-30 minutes, completed 5 days per week for 10 weeks. According to the Neuralign program, users should not take a break longer than 3 days between sessions.
Neuralign: An SLP’s Review
This section will review the program based on its methodology and process, teaching strategies, impact, cost, support, user reviews, strengths, and areas of improvement. This Neuralign review has been completed by a speech-language pathologist, and I will add my expertise to the information presented.
Methodology & Process
The Neuralign program bases its method and approach on a variety of research. Their website lists several research articles related to the types of treatment that are most effective for improving reading skills. This research states that interventions are beneficial for struggling readers when they combine phonics instruction with training of cognitive skills and attention, and decoding with reading fluency training. Other studies show evidence that individuals with dyslexia have impaired visual and auditory processing systems. One study demonstrated that dyslexia interventions should include auditory components of rhythm and regular patterns in order to improve phonological skills. Neuralign aims to improve these impaired systems by using the methods suggested by the research in its training program.
As a speech pathologist, one of the components I consider when choosing a treatment approach for my clients is if the method has been evaluated and backed by research. Neuralign is based on research and seeks to address the underlying deficits of those with reading difficulties, not just the way the reading difficulties present on the surface.
Teaching Strategies
The option to choose between an instructor-led approach or completing the program on your own allows for flexibility in the teaching method you like best. The fact that either option can be completed at home makes it convenient for busy families and individuals. Since young children can use it, and many of the sections are set up in a game format, it looks to be easy to use.
I have provided speech therapy services to individuals both in person and virtually via telepractice. Telepractice has often been a convenient option for families that live far from services. It has also helped cover needs for rural schools who are unable to find a local speech therapist. The fact that Neuralign can be completed on the computer may increase the number of individuals who seek out and receive this treatment.
Impact
Neuralign cannot predict the outcome of this program with certainty, but many students have achieved very good results when they continue to read throughout the program. Improvements are often also seen in related areas, such as spelling and handwriting.
According to Neuralign, improvements from the program are most significant shortly after the program is completed. Some individuals see results in as soon as a few days, while others see results after the full program of 40 hours of training is completed. It can be beneficial to complete the program again in order to see additional improvements, depending on the severity of the individual’s reading difficulty.
According to testimonials on the Neuralign website, parents have seen the following improvements in their children: improved reading fluency, improved confidence and self-esteem, higher grades, jumped grade levels in reading, improved comprehension across subject areas, less time spent on homework, improved organization skills, and children asking to read for fun.
In a similar manner, progress in speech therapy depends greatly on the frequency and duration of services received, as well as any practice in between sessions. The repetitive nature of Neuralign is what will help it be successful for individuals who commit to the program.
Cost
The full 13-week Neuralign program costs $1495 when paid all at once, or you can pay in installments of $150 per week for 12 weeks. Once you pay, you own the program and can therefore complete it as many times as desired without paying again. There is also an option to purchase student bundles as an organization that will be working with multiple students.
This is a reasonable price, considering all of the components you receive. You are also able to complete the programs as many times as you’d like since you own the program. This is unique to this program, since most other services such as speech therapy have a cost per session. You have to continue paying in order to continue receiving services.
Support
Neuralign offers two options for completing the program. With Neuralign Home, you purchase the program to complete on your own at home. Neuralign Provider lets you work with a certified specialized provider remotely or in person. You can search for a provider on the Neuralign website in order to see providers’ qualifications and rates.
Working with a certified provider is the best way to receive immediate hands-on support throughout the program. There is also a customer support email that customers can contact with questions. The level of support to those who purchase Neuralign Home is unclear, and there is limited information for parents on the website.
The level of support needed will depend on the age and developmental level of the individual. Young children and their parents may benefit from working with a provider, at least to get started. Then if they decide to complete the program again, they can likely complete it on their own. Older children and adults who are more independent and responsible may choose to complete the program on their own. As a speech pathologist, it is helpful for parents to be able to ask me questions and provide support throughout their child’s therapy journey.
User Reviews
A study was conducted by the Center for Applied Cognitive Research and the Department of Psychology at Carleton University to analyze Neuralign for its effectiveness in improving reading fluency and reading performance. Reading fluency is the speed at which one reads, or the number of words read per minute. Reading performance is reading accuracy and comprehension. According to the study, the reading fluency of the participants improved by about 50% after 10 weeks. There was also a significant improvement in the reading performance of participants.
A downside to this study is that there is no control group to compare the results of those using Neuralign to more traditional programs for improving reading. Because of this, one could draw the conclusion that the individuals in the study demonstrated improvement simply because they were receiving a targeted reading program or spending more time reading in general. It does not demonstrate the effectiveness of Neuralign specifically.
Strengths of Neuralign
Those with dyslexia and other reading difficulties know that repeated reading practice, drill of sight words, and sounding out words just don’t work. A different approach is needed. The Neuralign approach works by addressing the underlying root causes of reading difficulties.
Neuroplasticity, the basis of the Neuralign program, is evidence-based. By strengthening weak pathways and making new connections in the brain, users become effective readers.
A unique benefit of this program is that due to its multisensory and well-rounded approach, individuals who complete the program notice improvements in other areas besides reading. Areas of note include improved spelling and handwriting, confidence, organization, self-esteem, listening skills, and communication skills.
Utilizing multiple modalities and multisensory approaches is beneficial in speech therapy and all kinds of teaching. Methods that treat underlying deficits can lead to the most change, in multiple areas. As with Neuralign, when I target one area, there is often a ripple effect in other areas. For example, children who improve their articulation skills also demonstrate improvement in their reading and spelling skills. Children who work on their vocabulary skills often see improvement in their writing and reading comprehension as well.
Areas for Improvement
Additional studies should be conducted comparing the effectiveness of the Neuralign program to other more traditional reading programs. This will demonstrate how the principles of neuroplasticity work best for struggling readers.
Being a computer-based program makes it possible for sessions to be conducted with an instructor online, if this is the route the individual chooses. However, the visual components of the game are not appropriate for all individuals, such as those who suffer from seizures. In addition, some parents may not want their children to spend more time on a screen than they likely already are at school. Adding screenless components could be an area of consideration for the future.
As someone who often works with clients virtually, most children do very well in this type of setting. However, I have come across a few students for whom online therapy is not a good fit. Special considerations have had to be made for these individuals. As with any method or format, Neuralign will not be a good fit for every individual.
Bottom Line
Overall, Neuralign is a great option for individuals with dyslexia looking to improve their reading skills. By incorporating principles of neuroplasticity, Neuralign targets the underlying weaknesses of struggling readers. This should lead to a higher level of success in its users. The option to complete the program on your own or with an instructor provides options so each individual can choose what they need. Although some people may not want to use a computer-based program, the games and interactive setup of the program could be engaging and motivating to many children.
The Pros and Cons of Neuralign:
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Based on the research of Neuroplasticity. Addresses the underlying deficits of reading difficulties. | ❌ The entire program must be completed on the computer. The use of screens may not be appropriate for all individuals. |
| ✅ Flexible teaching options: instructor-led or independent. | ❌ No control group used to compare results of Neuralign users to other reading programs in research study. |
| ✅ Once purchased, the individual owns the program and may complete it as many times as they choose. | ❌ Relatively expensive. |
| ✅ Improvements are seen in areas beyond reading fluency and comprehension: improved spelling and handwriting, improved confidence, improved listening and communication skills, improved organization, improved comprehension across subject areas, etc. |
Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Neuralign Program
Rigorous research has been done in order to review the Neuralign program. All opinions and claims made are backed by research, people’s experiences, and a breakdown of the Neuralign program.
- Evidence-Based Approach: A program such as Neuralign should be evidence based, with plenty of research to support it. In choosing a program to review, this was a major criterion.
- Expert involvement: A speech-language pathologist, who specializes in communication, which includes reading, reviewed the Neuralign program. The program was reviewed based on my experience, expertise, and observations.
- User reviews: User reviews were a major component when reviewing the program since they provide input from those with first-hand experience. It is important to consider the reviews of others who have tried out the program. Any studies conducted that involve users also demonstrate the effectiveness of the program.
- Detailed breakdown of program components: When reviewing the program, I looked at the major components of the program and how they were laid out. It was important that there be multiple levels and an increase in difficulty. Repetition of program components was also important, as this is what creates improvement and lasting change. It was also essential to determine the basis of the program is backed by research.
- This Neuralign review was not sponsored. It is an honest opinion based on my expertise and real user reviews.
Forbrain and Neuralign as Complementary Dyslexia Tools
Neuralign can be used with other dyslexia interventions. Forbrain integrates well with the Neuralign program, specifically with the Additional Reading Exercises of Neuralign. Forbrain is an auditory feedback device that has been proven to improve reading fluency, memory, and learning. It is also based on neuroplasticity, and utilizes the auditory feedback loop to improve reading skills when the individual more clearly hears themself speaking and reading aloud.
Combining Forbrain and Neuralign as complementary tools helps to strengthen the training process, as these tools build on each other. Using Forbrain alongside Neuralign helps to reinforce the reading tasks, as the individual more clearly hears themself reading. This further reinforces the auditory component of reading, which is a component targeted in the Neuralign program.
The Use of Neuralign with and without Forbrain:
| Aspect | Forbrain | Neuralign | Neuralign with Forbrain |
| Functionality | Headset that helps with the 3 main challenges of dyslexia: verbal memory, phonological awareness, and verbal processing speed. The combination of the dynamic filter and bone conduction amplifies the speaker’s voice and stimulates the auditory nerve, for better brain processing. | Multisensory cognitive computer training program that uses audio and visual elements to stimulate the auditory, visual, and vestibular systems. Improves overall reading skills. 3 components included: Cognitive Therapy, Speech Reading, and Reading Exercises.isensory cognitive computer training program that uses audio and visual elements to stimulate the auditory, visual, and vestibular systems. Improves overall reading skills. | Forbrain and Neuralign complement each other well since they are both based on the principle of neuroplasticity and address underlying issues of those with dyslexia. No additional time is required when combining the two tools. |
| Usability | Meant to be implemented into daily routines, for 10-20 minutes a day. Individuals simply need to wear the headset when reading or speaking. | Internet access is needed to use Neuralign from home. The program takes 40 hours to complete, and should be completed within 4 months. | Neuralign recommends Forbrain to be implemented while participating in daily Neuralign tasks. It also keeps momentum going between Neuralign sessions. |
| Target Audience | Suitable for 3+ and older individuals with learning challenges such as dyslexia. | Designed for individuals 5 years and older with dyslexia and reading difficulties. | Neuralign and Forbrain are both designed to help those with reading difficulties and make a perfect combination for faster results. |
| Benefits | Forbrain helps to improve: – speech – communication – attention – focus – memory – learning | Neuralign addresses the underlying root causes of dyslexia. It helps to improve: – reading skills – spelling & handwriting | |
| Limitations | Not appropriate for individuals with : – cochlear implant – severe hearing loss – epilepsy | – Only one Neuralign study has been conducted. – Computer-based programs may not be appropriate for all individuals. | Most individuals who are good candidates for Forbrain or Neuralign will also be good candidates for the other. |
| Cost | $299 for the Forbrain headset and accessories, with a 2-year warranty. | The full 13-week Neuralign program costs $1500 with lifetime ownership. Student bundles are also available. | The total cost for purchasing both Forbrain and Neuralign is $1,799. Both can be used as often as desired. |
| Support & Resources | Forbrain comes with: – A secondary microphone that allows support from parents, therapists, or instructors. – A headphone jack for listening to recordings or participating in online therapy programs. | Individuals can work with a certified Neuralign Provider remotely or in person for hands-on support. Customer service is available when using Neuralign at home. | Neuralign supports the use of Forbrain since it can be plugged in during Neuralign exercises. For Neuralign users who choose to work with a provider in person, that provider can also use the additional Forbrain microphone. |
| Clinical Evidence/Research | Forbrain uses neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to rewire and change. Several scientific studies have shown the effects of using Forbrain or auditory feedback to improve the skills of those with reading or other deficits. | Neuralign also uses the principles of neuroplasticity. A recent study showed that the reading fluency of participants improved by about 50% after 10 weeks. There was also a significant improvement in the reading performance of participants. | Previous research supports the use of Forbrain and Neuralign as complementary tools. Studies have shown that individuals with dyslexia have impaired visual and auditory processing systems, and that interventions should include auditory components. Both Forbrain and Neuralign aim to improve these impaired systems. |
Final Words
When choosing a treatment program for dyslexia, it is important to consider many factors. We have thoroughly reviewed the Neuralign program to make that choice easier. Be sure to read this Neuralign review and the information shared above in order to determine if Neuralign is right for you or your child.
References
EIN Presswire. (2022, October 25). Study Shows 50% Improvement in Reading by Dyslexic Students. EIN Presswire by Newsmatics. https://www.abc27.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/596473828/study-shows-50-improvement-in-reading-by-dyslexic-students/
Learnability. (Accessed 2024, February 18). The Neuralign Program. Learnability. https://learnability.ca/neuralign/
LeFevre, J., Douglas, H., & Song, C. (September 2022). Evidence for Improvement in Reading with Neuralign. Carleton University. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ouuhJp6ZOF_zEqbb2ogRTiUtXcatvM0b/view
Neuralign. (Accessed 2024, February 17). What is Neuralign? How Does it Work? Neuralign https://lsworks.org/home
Perdicus Communications. (2022, October 12). Neuralign Announces Game-Changing Program Empowering Dyslexic and Neurodiverse Students. EIN Presswire. https://www.einpresswire.com/article/593911704/neuralign-announces-game-changing-program-empowering-dyslexic-and-neurodiverse-students
Amanda Unrau
-
More Reviews on Dyslexia Programs:
| Wilson Reading LearningRX Orton Gillingham |
Barton Reading Lindamood Bell Cellfield |
Fast ForWord Interactive Metronome Learning Breakthrough |