What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is brain exercise. The brain is observed in action from moment to moment by monitoring brain waves. A person is shown his or her brain activity and is helped to change it by rewarding shifts toward a more appropriate and stable brain state. It is a gradual learning process.
Neurofeedback is also called EEG biofeedback. The electroencephalogram (EEG) is another name for the brain wave recordings and, in this context, biofeedback refers to the process by which you learn to change your brain waves and thereby gain better control over your brain states.
What can neurofeedback help?
Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. 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.
Neurofeedback bioelectrical functioning of the brain is targeted which is actually a more important issue than the “chemical imbalance” that is often talked about. Simply by detecting the brain going off track, the brain can be trained toward enhanced stability and improved functioning. In other respects, neurofeedback is somewhat like putting the brain on a stair stepper to exercise certain regulatory functions continuously. This is applicable to a wide variety of functional deficits.
Does neurofeedback cure symptoms or conditions?
In the case of organic brain disorders, it is a matter of getting the brain to function better rather than curing the condition. When it comes to problems of disregulation, it could be said that there is not a disease to be cured, and self-regulation may very well be a complete remedy.
Who can benefit from neurofeedback?
Individuals of any age can benefit from EEG training. Neurofeedback can help a variety of childhood problems including bedwetting, nightmares, attention deficits and other forms of disruptive and disturbing behaviors. Neurofeedback can assist those persons who struggle with anxiety and depression or alcohol and drug use. Neurofeedback can help anyone maintain good brain function as they age. Peak performers also use EEG training to enhance their abilities in sports, business and the arts.
How is neurofeedback done?
Sensors are attached to the scalp with EEG paste, which then pick up brain waves. It is painless and does not involve the application of any voltage or current to the brain, so it is entirely non-invasive. A computer processes the brain waves and extracts certain information from them. The person is shown the ebb and flow of their brain waves. Everyone can do it. The specific frequencies rewarded and the sensor locations on the scalp are unique to each individual.
What happens if clients are taking medications?
With successful neurofeedback training, medications targeting brain function may no longer be needed, or they may be needed at lower dosages as the brain takes over the role of regulation itself. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding neurofeedback and medications.
If neurofeedback can do so much, why haven’t I heard of it before?
Neurofeedback is not yet taught in most medical schools or psychology graduate programs. Many professionals are therefore unaware of the power of this technique.
*Information provided by EEG Institute (www.eeginfo.com)