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 their behavior, thinking, and emotions. Attention and learning may be disturbed as well as sleep and appetite. 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 information that it can use to interrupt undesired states. Pleasant music and interesting visual stimulation are played which tend to induce a relaxed state. The brain’s ability to focus, to pay attention, and to be calm and reflective can improve when relaxation occurs. 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. While the trainee listens to music, brain waves are monitored and their activity is fed back to the individual through the music which is either playing smoothly or is not playing smoothly. Static or brief interruptions in the music provide information to the brain that it is outside of the desired calm state. No signals are being fed into the brain. 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 six to eight sessions. Training goals are sometimes met by 20 sessions, although not always. Training sessions are ideally scheduled twice per week, although this is not practical for many people who train once per week with good results. The trainee’s time at the computer is about 30 minutes.

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 individual who is feeling anxious and stressed for a variety of reasons. Often it works best for neurofeedback to be integrated with counseling of either of an individual or family nature. When the individual is addressing optimal brain functioning as well as optimal life functioning, the best outcomes can occur.

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.