Our Services > Neurofeedback
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is direct training of the brain, which then learns to function with greater control and stability. We observe the brain in action from moment to moment. We show that information back to the person. And we reward the brain for changing its own activity to more appropriate patters.
This is a gradual learning process. It applies to any aspect of brain function that we can measure. Neurofeedback is also called EEG feedback because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram or EEG.
Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly. Self-regulation is a necessary part of good brain function. Self-regulation training allows the central nervous system to better function.
How is this done?
We apply electrodes to the scalp to record brainwave activity. We process the signal by computer, and we extract information about certain key brainwave frequencies. We show the ebb and flow of this activity to the person who attempts to change the activity level. Some frequencies we wish to promote. Others we wish to diminish. We present this information to the person in the form of a video game with his or her brain. Eventually the brainwave activity is shaped toward more desirable, more regulated performance. The frequencies we target and the specific locations on the scalp where we record the brainwaves are specific to the condition s we are trying to address and specific to the individual.
How long does the treatment take?
Sessions are 45-50 minutes with 30 minutes for the biofeedback and 15-20 minutes for set-up and processing. Sessions are typically scheduled one to three times per week. Since the brain is learning something new, people tend to get stronger results more quickly when they attend more than once per week. Neurofeedback is a gradual learning process. The average length of treatment is 20 to 60 sessions with 40 sessions being the average. Most individuals will begin to notice changes after just a few sessions, but in some difficult cases, major benefit will not be noted until after 60 or even 80 sessions.
What happens if Neurofeedback clients are taking medications?
With successful Neurofeedback training modifications targeting brain function may no longer be needed or they may be needed at lower dosages, as the brain takes over the role of regulating itself. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding Neurofeedback and medications.
Are there any risks?
There is no evidence that the treatment is harmful or that it creates or has any negative side effects. It is a non-invasive procedure. In fact, any side effects seem to be in terms of unanticipated improvement in other problems that were not the focus of treatment. Some clients have reported a temporary worsening in some symptoms including feeling more anxious, more distractible, or more difficulty sleeping, etc. These changes were not serious and adjusting treatment typically resolves these problems quickly.
Questions?
If you have any questions about Neurofeedback please feel free to talk to us about this treatment.
What is Neurofeedback good for?
The following syndromes have published evidence of effectiveness using Neurofeedback:
- ADHD/ADD
- Anxiety and Relaxation
- Addiction
- Depression
- Learning Disabilities
- Peek performance
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Sleep Disorders
The following syndromes have clinical reports of effectiveness using Neurofeedback:
- Attachment Disorder
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Chronic Pain
- Cognitive Decline in the Elderly
- Eating Disorder
- Fibromyalgia
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Touretts’s Syndrome
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Migraine
- Autism
The following are experimental Applications for Neurofeedback:
- Conduct Disorders
- Epilepsy
- Pre-Menstrual Syndrome
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
- Stroke