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.