What IS EEG Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback or Neurotherapy is an operant conditioning reward system training tool that is used to improve a number of mental health conditions and may also be used to increase an individual's personal performance. Neurofeedback targets dysregulation in the brain by working with neuronal networks to restore or rebalance the brain's efficiency. Simply stated, it is operant conditioning reward system for the brain that can change the amplitude of brain waves within a given frequency. The goal of Neurofeedback is to change the way you function, without changing who you are. For example, if you are too distractible, we will reward the reduction of waves that produce inattentiveness and reward the waves that relate to focused attention. After repeated training sessions a more focused state emerges.

What can it improve?

EEG Neurofeedback can be used to improve concentration, focus, stability of mood, calmness, the ability to be mindful, and may also increase an individual's personal performance in work or in sports. It may also assist in the recovery process of addictions and / or be used to reduce or eliminate the need for medications (under Dr. supervision). A special type of neurofeedback called Alpha-Theta training is used for treatment of trauma and can reduce or eliminate Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms. We are able to treat individuals of all ages.

How do I provide it to you?

In my practice, I use a 19 channel QEEG or "brain map" to identify brain dysregulation as a guide for training. The QEEG is available on site in the Albany office and takes an hour or less to administer. Evaluation of the QEEG yields a great deal of information about your brain function. It will also identify protocols for treatment that guide the neurofeedback training. QEEGs are administered periodically to track treatment progress.

Sensors are attached to the ears and scalp to read the EEG waves during neurofeedback sessions. There is no input of electrical activity to your brain during training and the process is painless. A computer is used to program the training and to administer a reward during the training when the identified brain waves are increased or decreased according to the plan. The brain waves targeted are specific to each individual. There is no need to worry about one's performance during neurofeedback since the path to better brain regulation is an individual process. No one person's training is compared to another's. The activity is pleasurable and typically involves watching a movie.

Neurofeedback can be done in an Eyes Open or an Eyes Closed state. Typically Eyes Open helps with activating the brain, while eyes closed can be more calming. The Eyes Closed training can be very helpful with trauma, although it is typically initiated after the client is comfortable with the process. Eyes Closed are never required.

What can it treat?

There are many conditions that can benefit from neurofeedback training including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD), trauma, migraines, headaches, brain injuries, learning disabilities, seizures, autism, fibromyalgia, anger issues, addictions and chronic pain. It is also used for high performance training by increasing memory skills, focusing abilities and concentration.

How long will it take?

Sessions are typically done twice a week. The process takes a commitment of time and consistency. Sessions are 50 minutes to one hour twice per week. The training itself is completed in 30 minutes which allows time for discussion and other therapeutic interventions. I take my time with all of my clients and remain with them during training. In doing so, I can address any concerns that may arise and adjust treatment as needed. You should plan 20 to 40 sessions and the number of sessions varies with the individual's response, severity of problems, and the desired outcome. Changing brain function takes time, so patience is needed. My ability to re administer brain maps can help the client to decide how many sessions to pursue as they evaluate their progress.