Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is also EEG Biofeedback or Neurotherapy

Neurofeedback is a technique of brain exercise. It involves helping a person learn how to modify his or her brainwave activity so that this gradual learning process can train the brain to function with better control and stability. A stable brain state can improve attention, reduce impulsivity, control hyperactive behaviors, improve sleep pattern and lead to better emotional wellness.

Neurofeedback is a painless, non-invasive treatment approach that allows the individual to gain information about his or her brainwave activity and use that information to produce changes in brainwave activity. 

Neurofeedback Typical Session

 A typical Neurotherapy  seesion a couple of electrodes are placed on the scalp and one or two are usually put on the ear lobe. Then, high-tech elect ronic equipment provides you with real-time, instantaneous audio and visual feedback about your brainwave activity. The electrodes measure the electrical patterns coming from the brain--much like a physician listens to your heart from the surface of your skin. No electrical current is put into your brain. Your brainwave patterns are relayed to the computer and recorded. Ordinarily, we cannot influence our brainwave patterns because we lack awareness of them. However, when you can see your brainwaves on a computer screen a few thousandths of a second after they occur, it gives you the ability to influence and change them. The mechanism of action is operant conditioning. We are literally reconditioning and retraining the brain. At first, the changes are short-lived, but the changes gradually become more enduring. With continuing feedback, coaching, and practice, we can usually retrain healthier brainwave patterns in most people.

Neurofeedback - What is the expected results?

•  Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. And good self-regulation is necessary for optimal brain function.
•  Self-regulation training enhances the function of the central nervous system and thereby improves mental performance, emotional control and physiological stability.
•  Trainees have also reported improvements in school or work performance, social relationships and self-esteem as well as reduction in irritability and oppositional behavior.
• Some individuals report increased relaxation, reduced stress, and a heightened sense of control over their bodies, thoughts, and feelings during or immediately after treatment sessions.   

Neurofeedback - How succeesful is it?                

Some clinicians and researchers have reported remarkable success in the treatment of ADD/ADHD with Neurofeedback. Others still consider Neurotherapy to be an experimental procedure.

Several research studies reporting successful treatment outcomes with ADD/ADHD have been published over the last 20 years. In addition, there are increasing numbers of clinical reports being added to computerised data bases that attest to the effectiveness of Neurofeedback as a treatment for ADD/ADHD.

Neurofeedback Typical Application?                                

Neurofeedback is technology’s answer to poor cerebral functioning, cognitive rehabilitation and psychotherapy. It has been successfully applied to address depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, addictions, seizure disorder and unresolved emotional issues.

It is used for early childhood disorders such as:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Llearning disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD
• Phobia
• Depression
• Anxiety

Neurofeedback can help a variety of childhood problems such as bedwetting, nightmares, sleep walking and teeth grinding. It is also helpful in assisting adolescents cope with drug-taking, alcohol, phobias and learning disabilities.

See also:

Neurofeedback