Neurofeedback

What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive and scientifically-proven therapy to train the brain to better regulate its bodily functions and appropriately respond to its environment. The result is a more relaxed, open and flexible mindset in which obstacles are more manageable and problems more resolvable.

What can Neurofeedback help with?

Symptoms of brain dysregulation that often improve with neurofeedback include anxiety, sadness, low motivation, chronic pain, headaches, attention difficulties, emotional hyper-reactivity, sleeping problems, learning disabilities, memory difficulties, and problems with clarity. 

It can help address dysfunctions associated with Depression, Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, PTSD, Reactive Attachment disorder, ADD/ADHD, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, PMS/PMDD, cravings and addictions, Autism spectrum disorders, migraines, and Fibromyalgia.

The Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) is especially effective for symptoms that arise after a brain injury. A brain injury may be caused by a blow to the head, whiplash from a car accident, sports injuries, violence, explosive blasts or combat injuries, or from a stroke. Toxic chemical exposure, medications, birth trauma, and emotional trauma can also injure the brain.

How does neurofeedback work? 

Neurofeedback targets the brain’s bioelectrical area and as a result affects its biochemistry. The brain organizes itself through brainwaves and rhythms which are reflected as electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. 

Neurofeedback uses these EEG signals to create a feedback signal to communicate with the brain. It is like showing the brain a mirror of its own function and inviting it to make more of some brainwaves and less of others. This promotes better self-regulation which allows the individual to free stuck patterns of thinking, create stronger connections, and increase mental stability. The brain is highly adaptable, a concept known as neuroplasticity, and is able to learn and reorganize itself to form new neural pathways to sustain these changes over time.

What do neurofeedback sessions look like? 

The first session will consist of an in-depth history to find out if neurofeedback would be a good option and to determine the most effective treatment approach. It is best to commit to 6 weekly or twice weekly sessions to see if there is a positive and lasting shift. During this time, the brainwave information will be collected using a paste and sensor that is applied to the scalp or forehead. The equipment assesses these brainwaves while the patient sits quietly and generates a faint signal that the brain may respond to in beneficial ways. Follow up sessions are typically 30-45 minutes long and may consist of seconds to several minutes of stimulus.

How many sessions will I need? 

It is difficult to predict how many sessions will be required, but depending on the symptoms and nature of the problem, it may take 20-40 sessions to create lasting positive changes. Like learning to ride a bicycle or play an instrument, it takes practice for a new skill to become natural. Changes are usually noticeable within the first few treatments and improvement in function continues throughout the course of treatment. LENS neurofeedback has been shown to provide significant changes in a shorter amount of time than traditional neurofeedback methods.