Neurofeedback – Brain Training from the inside-out.
Research has shown neurofeedback to be an effective intervention for ADHD and epilepsy. It is a promising, non-invasive modality to lessen insomnia, anxiety, OCD, panic attacks, depression, substance abuse, traumatic brain injuries and more. It can improve concentration, memory, cognition and creativity, focus, self-confidence and performance in sport, on-the-job and in the arts.
Neurofeedback works by providing visual or auditory or tactile feedback to a client based on client brain wave patterns. A technician sets up conditions of training (much like a personal trainer would adjust a weight machine or resistance on a bicycle to fit the physical fitness of a client), adjusting the modality, location and strength of the training feedback.
The goal of training with neurofeedback is to reduce symptoms and patterns of mind and body as related to brain function. Training rewards brain wave patterns that can lead to a diminishment of unwanted symptoms (such as poor attention, impulsiveness or OCD) or adoption of wanted symptoms (relaxation, better emotional regulation, reading better).
For example, a client with poor attention and hyperactivity may train with sensors placed on the forehead, connected to a computer which plays a movie when the brain is within a desired range. But, when the brain wave pattern is out-of-the desired range, the movie or game pauses or shrinks, and the sound fades. The move or game resumes when the brain finds the desired brain wave pattern (usually within a second or two). Through this process, the brain “learns” which patterns allows the individual to watch the movie or play the game.
Based on the repeated “learning” through this feedback process, the brain theoretically becomes aware of a different pattern for accomplishing a task, such as playing a game. This learning is generally thought to produce the desired change in brain wave patterns—old patterns that were linked to the ineffective behavior. Thus, with neurofeedback, symptoms begin to change as the brain is rewarded for the healthy brain wave pattern.
At Better Brain Balance, we prepare the individual for learning through establishing an appropriate-to-learning brain “state”. This means we may use biofeedback or relaxation exercises to improve calming or better focus prior to brain training with neurofeedback.
Neurofeedback can be beneficial at any age: with children, adults, seniors. It is an effective alternative to medication. It may be used in conjunction with medication and/or nutritional supplements, or as an adjunct to psychotherapy since it can impact emotional processing, release trauma patterns and enhance a sense of well-being. (If you are currently taking medications, please inform us during the Intake Interview.)
A qEEG brain map is recommended prior to neurofeedback to guide training. Training is not recommended for individuals currently using psychoactive medications, alcohol or marijuana; please read the Consent Form to learn more about contraindications for neurofeedback training.
At Better Brain Balance, we use the BrainMaster Discovery and the New Mind Technologies systems for neurofeedback training. We have found these to be the powerful and effective. Typically, 20-40 training sessions are taken to address non-complex symptoms, but this will vary for each individual. Training involves 2-5 sessions per week, 10-45 minutes of feedback per session. Neurofeedback training may be taken at home. Please CONTACT US to learn more about home training. In the clinic, training sessions are generally scheduled for 50 minutes.
In the hands of a trained neurofeedback provider, there are few, if any, negative side effects reported in the literature, or in our clinic. Most clients find the trainings enjoyable and engaging. Our practitioners are certified in Neurofeedback by the BCIA (Biofeedback Certification International Alliance), qualified professionals who have received hundreds of hours of training.
Click here to schedule a complimentary 30-minute Meet-n-Greet session with our practitioners to learn more. We welcome your questions in person or in a telephone session! There is no obligation to proceed with neurofeedback following this introduction to neurofeedback.
