Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback: Evidence-based Technology & Treatment brain




Neurofeedback is a non-invasive form of biofeedback that uses brain wave monitoring, analysis, and auditory feedback to alter brain wave patterns while providing moment-to-moment information to an individual on the state of their physiological functioning. These alterations are associated with positive changes in physical, emotional, and cognitive health.

Research as far back as the 1930's has shown that the brain's electrical activity can be measured and quantified by means of electroencephalograph (EEG) equipment. Neurofeedback research since the 1960's has demonstrated that it is possible to modify brainwave patterns in ways that both optimize brain functioning for enhanced performance, as well as treat various behavioral health problems. My services include the latest approaches to neurofeedback, including z-score training and infra slow frequency training.

All human activity is dependent upon the flow of information through neural networks in the brain. It is the combined effect of this neural activity that produces the wavelike electrochemical discharges, represented as brainwaves, that are worked with in neurofeedback training. Different activities or states of consciousness are associated with different brain wave patterns. An efficient brain shifts through different brainwave states dependent upon the task at hand. A dysregulated brain may be underaroused and unresponsive or overaroused and anxious, resulting in a diminished ability to shift states in response to environmental demands. Individuals can become stuck in a specific state of arousal, style of responding, or mood state. Neurofeedback is designed to enhance brain functioning by improving the brain's ability to shift states. In other words, Neurofeedback can train the brain to increase its ability to adapt by becoming more flexible and regulated.

What is involved in a session?

Training involves the placement of electrodes on the scalp in order to feed signals to an EEG amplifier. The EEG equipment provides real-time, instantaneous audio and visual feedback to the subject about his or her brainwave activity. No electrical current is put into the brain. The brain's electrical activity is simply relayed to computer software. When and individual can see a representation of his or her brainwave activity on a computer screen in real time, it is possible for that subject to influence and change that activity in ways that lead to a more efficient calm brain. Through this process we are now about to literally retrain the brain.

What kinds of issues does Neurofeedback treat?

Though I work with many issues that respond well to neurofeedback training, I have special expertise and experience working with eating disorders, addictions and trauma. Although not designed as a specific treatment for a specific problem, there is a significant body of research and an abundance of case studies documenting the effectiveness for the following conditions:

  • Addiction
  • Anxiety
  • Attachment disorders
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Autism spectrum disorders
  • Chronic pain
  • Compulsions
  • Conduct disorders
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Depression
  • Migraines
  • Obsessions
  • Peak Performance
  • PTSD
  • Sleep disorders
  • Stroke/head injury

For more information about Neurofeedback, feel free to call me at (207) 467-9092 .

Please call me for more information about becoming a client.

Online Therapy for Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts