Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback. Biofeedback is any technology that allows us to observe biological processes that we are not consciously aware of. Neurofeedback uses EEG (electroencephalogram) data to reflect back brain and nervous system activity. This information is used to help train the brain to develop patterns so that we can experience more well being in our daily lives.
How does neurofeedback work to train my brain?
Using special software to measure real time EEG activity, we reward the brain to produce patterns that are more conducive with what a person is trying to achieve.
The program delivers feedback in the form of audio (typically a beep) and/or visual rewards (typically a game) that tell the brain it’s on the right track with adjusting brain wave frequencies for optimal nervous system arousal. Think of it as the “warmer/colder” game. When there are beeps and/or a game is playing, that feedback tells the brain it’s getting warmer. If the beeps slow down or the game stops playing, it tells the brain that some adjustment needs to be made to get closer (warmer) to optimal neural activation.
Over several training sessions of the brain being rewarded to create different patterns, the brain is able to maintain these new patterns outside of training. It’s like training to play a sport. You do drills in practice so that when it comes to playing a game, your mind and body automatically knows what to do for optimal performance.
How many training sessions should I expect?
Neurofeedback is like learning to play an instrument. The amount of lessons it will take for someone to discontinue taking lessons various from person to person. Everyone is different and the course of neurofeedback depends on a persons’ starting point, what their goals are and what they do between lessons to further their progress (more on this to come).
For most conditions, initial progress can be observed within a few sessions. Overall progress is not guaranteed for everyone, but there is evidence that neurofeedback works. It is recommended that a minimum of 15-20 training sessions be completed to make and stabilize new patterns.
Changes tend to be most robust and persistent when initial training sessions are frequent and grouped close together. Repetition is highly important for learning any new skill. For that reason, it is encouraged that individuals new to neurofeedback do multiple sessions per week at the beginning if possible. This allows the brain to more easily stack what its learning.
What kind of concerns can be addressed with neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is all about developing more mental flexibility so that we can experience our world in a more calm and present way. It is a research-supported neurotherapy with studies showing positive outcomes in several areas including ADHD, depression, anxiety, seizure disorders, addictions, PTSD, and brain injuries. In addition, it can be useful in optimizing overall functioning and performance for individuals without any diagnosis. Common concerns that can be addressed are difficulty concentrating, inattention, distractibility, spaciness/fogginess, lack of motivation, depression, anxiety, lethargy, impulsivity, busy mind, tension, hyperactivity, sensory overload and sleep problems. In addition, neurofeedback can help athletes and artists improve their performance.
What can I do between neurofeedback sessions to help with progress?
Neurofeedback alone is often not sufficient to make meaningful and long lasting changes. In training sessions, our brain is doing the work to learn new patterns. Outside of training there are things we can do to help that learning. At Mid MO Neurofeedback, we like to use the acronym SPACE to encourage healthy habits that promote the brain’s natural ability to develop new patterns. Restorative Sleep is essential for learning and being able to maintain flexibility in our day-to-day lives. Presence through practices like deep breathing and mindfulness is important to reduce the tension that a lot of us carry in our often stressful world. Having some form of physical Activity on a regular basis supports physical and metabolic health that benefits the nervous system. It is also important to have Creative outlets for engagement that reduces stress and aids in neuroplasticity. In addition, what we Eat (and drink) has a significant impact on progress. What we consume nutritionally effects the body and mind’s ability to heal and perform optimally.
Developing positive goals and keeping track of progress between sessions is also crucial for the effectiveness of neurofeedback. Being aware of incremental changes tends to encourage continued learning and motivation. Trained neurofeedback practitioners will help guide you in developing your goals and healthy habits to make the most out of your training.
If you are already receiving other care such as psychotherapy or psychiatric services, it is generally recommended that you continue those services. Neurofeedback has been shown to help individuals make more progress in psychotherapy, especially if they have felt “stuck”. It is recommended that medications are continued when starting neurofeedback and that you communicate with your provider on progress to help determine any potential changes to medications.
Are there any negative side effects of neurofeedback?
While unwanted side effects are atypical, they are possible. Neurofeedback is non-invasive, but can cause mild and temporary side effects including headaches, fatigue, feeling wired or feeling spacey. Trained neurofeedback providers conduct a thorough intake process to gather as much information as possible to help minimize side effects. In addition, trained providers are diligent about encouraging clients to track what they notice between sessions (positive or negative) so that adjustments can be made to training when there are unwanted effects.