About Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG (Electroencephalogram) Biofeedback, is a learning procedure that enables participants to improve mental performance, normalize behavior, and stabilize mood. Neurofeedback is a natural, self-regulating approach that helps restore the brain's ability to function in the manner in which it was designed to function.

Once brain wave patterns begin to normalize, all the symptoms in the cluster of problems begin to improve. Neurofeedback is perhaps the biggest breakthrough in noninvasive medicine in the last 50 years.

To function, the brain must actively maintain its bio-electrical state across all behaviorally relevant timescales. Neurofeedback is brain exercise directed at fundamental brain regulatory mechanisms of these states.

The only technique capable of revealing brain's state of regulatory activity on the timescale of seconds is the EEG (and its cousin, the magnetoencephalogram, or MEG). The EEG reveals not what is thought, but shows the context in which thinking occurs -- state of arousal, state of vigilance and alertness, etc.

Dr. Rodolfo Llinas, a professor at New York University Medical School and a leading researcher in Neuroscience, has suggested that varied psychiatric and neurological conditions could be attributed simply to "thalamocortical dysrythmias," a pathological disruption of the continuity of rhythmic brain processes that underpin behavior.

If brain processes are coordinated by rhythmic phenomena, then communication between different brain regions should be discernible in phase relationships between these regions. That is indeed the case. Moreover, operant conditioning on such phase variables can effect normalization, with measurable clinical improvement.

Neurofeedback is a technique in which we train the brain to help improve its ability to regulate all bodily functions and to take care of itself. When the brain is not functioning well, evidence of this often shows up in the EEG. By challenging the brain wave, much as you challenge your body in physical exercise, we can help your brain learn to function better.

A better functioning brain can improve sleep patterns. When you sleep more efficiently, you are more alert during the day. It can help with anxiety and depression, and with syndromes like migraine or chronic pain. Secondly, it can be helpful in managing attention -- how well you can persist even at a boring task. Thirdly, it can help you manage the emotions.

Emotions may feel like the real you, but your brain has a lot to say about how you feel and react. If the emotions are out of control, that's trainable. If they aren't there -- as in lack of empathy, for example -- that, too, is trainable.

Conditions that have been the subject of published research include Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Epilepsy, and Alcoholism. Recent clinical findings indicate new applications to a wide range of conditions.

Neurofeedback is also used by athletes, performing artists and professionals interested in mental fitness training for achieving optimal performance. NASA uses Neurofeedback for enhancing pilot training.

Therapeutic Applications of Neurofeedback

The following is an alphabetical listing of therapeutic applications for Neurofeedback:

We utilize state-of-the-art computer-assisted brain wave monitoring and feedback equipment and state-of-the-art EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback) methodology. An initial interview is conducted, during which a developmental history and a description of symptoms is obtained, and computerized tests of attention are administered.

This can be completed in one session lasting about 2 hours. Subsequent training sessions require approximately 45 minutes start to finish, and are conducted ideally two to three times per week.Some improvement is generally seen within about ten sessions. The entire training regimen typically takes forty sessions, but may vary depending upon individual circumstances.

EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback) Training is a painless, non-invasive procedure. Using conductive paste, one electrode is attached to the scalp, and one to each ear. The brain waves are monitored by means of an amplifier and a computer-based instrument that processes the signal and provides the proper feedback.

This is displayed to the trainee by means of a video game or other video display. The trainee is asked to make the video game operate with his brain. As activity in a desirable frequency band increases, the video game progresses nicely. As activity in adverse bands increases, the video game is inhibited.

The Effects

Gradually, the brain responds to the cues that it is being given, and a "learning" of new brain wave patterns takes place. The new pattern is one that is closer to what is normally observed in individuals without disabilities. In the case of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, impulsivity, distractibility and hyperactivity all tend to respond to the training. This tends to lead to much more successful school performance.

The beneficial effects of EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback) Training are thought to be permanent. As brain wave training is actually a form of learning, once a person has learned how to control his brain wave patterns, he always knows how to do so. Brain wave training does not cause any discomfort, and it is not accompanied by negative side effects. The feedback simply reflects information about the brain, like a mirror. People tend to find the training experience to be quite pleasant.

How Do We Do Neurofeedback?

As your brain works, the neurons send tiny electrical impulses back and forth. These impulses come and go, usually in a regular and orderly manner. Neurofeedback equipment senses these impulses as brainwaves. Specific ranges of brainwave frequencies naturally occur while you are in certain states of mind. Some frequencies occur when you are sleepy, others when you are concentrating on something, still others when you are angry, and so on.

Studies have shown that in certain people who have ADD/HD there might be too much irregular brainwave, often too much low band frequency which is associated with lack of focus or daydreaming and not enough Beta which is what brain produces when we stay on task and are focused.

First we measure your brain waves by using a tiny sensor on your head (this is held in place by a paste similar to tooth paste, no pain or discomfort) and two tiny ear clips. Then we set the parameters for you to improve your brain function based on our reading.

You sit in front of a computer and play a video game. But the only way you can make the game advance is by using the correct brain waves! Since the brain is reward-seeking, and advancement in video games is so exciting (rewarding to the brain) you figure out quickly how to make the right brainwaves/ Each session we keep changing the settings, so over time your brain waves are normalized based on your age and gender.

This ability to produce the correct brainwaves in sequence is often assimilated into daily functions without the person even being aware of it. It is a learned behavior, which spreads to all spectrums of ones life with positive influence.

There Are No Reported Negative Side Effects After Over 20,000 Applications.

Neurofeedback is a safe, painless, non-drug, non-invasive, treatment that is effective. It's not necessary to make a lifetime commitment to Neurofeedback treatment such as one must do when taking medications! The benefits from Neurofeedback are long lasting!

For additional information, call the
Attention & Achievement Center at 925-280-9100

Disclaimer: The information presented here is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the expert and professional advice of your physician, psychologist, or therapist. Always seek help from qualified professionals in the field of your interest. Our treatments are considered complimentary or alternative to traditional pharmacology and are not licensed or endorsed by the State of California, nor are we licensed healing arts practitioners by the State.