About Neurofeedback

What is neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is the use of technology to help people become aware of mental states and to increase control over mental processes. When the brain is not working well, the individual may have difficulty managing behavior, thinking, and emotions. Attention and learning may also be disturbed. Neurofeedback is the process of training the brain to regulate itself, or to self-correct.

How does it work?

Neurofeedback is a training process. Through information provided by a computer and special EEG (electro-encephalograph) equipment, the brain receives feedback about its functioning as well as rewards that guide the brain toward desired mental states. Animation, music and tones are the usual rewards that gently guide the brain in the optimal direction. For instance, the brain's ability to focus, to pay attention, and to be calm and reflective can improve. While training takes place over many sessions, it is both painless and non-invasive, and it does not require the use of medication.

How is it done?

Training takes place at the computer, with the trainee viewing the screen while linked to the equipment through sensors that attach to the scalp or earlobe. Brain waves are monitored and fed back to the individual who is responding to the information on the computer screen. No signals are being fed into the brain. The trainee's mental activity causes the video animation to be active-or to stop. Learning to make the signal or animation move in the desired direction is the essence of training. Over the course of multiple training sessions, new brain wave patterns emerge. The new patterns are consistent with more flexible and adaptive brain wave patterns.

What are the possible benefits?

A better functioning brain can improve sleep patterns, can respond better to anxiety and stress, and can deal more effectively with syndromes like migraine and chronic pain. A better functioning brain can also sustain and manage attention effectively. For instance, it can stick with tasks, even boring ones. Also, the better functioning brain can manage emotions and maintain better control over feeling expression.

How long does the training normally take?

Neurofeedback is a gradual training process so many sessions are required. For many conditions, initial progress can be seen within about ten sessions. Training goals are sometimes met by 20 sessions, although not always. Some conditions such as hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder take about 40 sessions. Training sessions are ideally scheduled twice per week, particularly in the beginning. Once per week training is possible, and is the norm for many conditions in the later phase of training.

Can success be predicted?

It is not possible to predict with certainty that training will be successful for a particular condition or individual. Some of the conditions for which successful outcomes are well documented are attentions problems, addictions, headaches, and pre menstrual syndrome. Conditions with ample clinical efficacy are mood disorders, anxiety, chronic pain, and post traumatic stress disorder. The effectiveness of the training can usually be assessed early in the course of training.

How does neurofeedback fit into family therapy?

The person seeking neurofeedback is sometimes the member of the family "feeling the pinch" of anxiety or stress. This stress is generally an influence on the group at large, too. Ideally, neurofeedback can assist the trainee in finding a better adaptation to stress. Family therapy has a similar aim. When members of a family can get clarity on how the self is functioning and influencing others, sometimes higher individual and relationship functioning emerges. Often, the best outcomes of neurofeedback occur when the family engages in therapy and there is work on the overall management of stress.

What does it cost?

Neurofeedback is roughly equivalent in cost to a course of psychotherapy. Insurance is billed if possible. The assessment portion and any family consultation is often an insurance-covered service.

A discount option is available for those paying out of pocket. Training sessions purchased in advance in blocks of ten or twenty are discounted in cost. Also, monthly payment plans are available.