Neurofeedback helps the brain become more aware of its own activity through direct training of brain function. It is a painless, non-invasive process that includes attaching electrodes to the scalp and playing a video game or watching a movie while the brain does all the work. Brainwave activity, if over or under stimulated, will register to the brain and correct itself using the reward system. The brain trains itself to keep the brainwaves at an optimal frequency. There are no negative side effects and with weekly training, the central nervous system will quiet down (decrease in anxiety related symptoms), the mind will become sharper and clearer and the individual can function at a higher level.
WHAT IS THE SUCCESS RATE?
The Othmer's have studied the effects of neurofeedback for more than forty years and have found a more than 95% success rate in improved brain functioning. It would be fair to say that nearly everyone who undergoes treatment should make great strides in achieving goals set for neurofeedback. It does not mean that it works for everybody. Keeping expectations realistic is helpful; expecting a miracle is not. By learning to self regulate, the brain becomes better equipped to handle stress, allowing an enhanced sense of well being. When the body is not experiencing physical symptoms of anxiety and/or stress, the brain can focus on the people in our lives, the situation at hand and our work or school rather than reacting to those feelings of stress.
WILL I STILL NEED MEDICATION?
With the achievement of successful neurofeedback training, it is possible that medications may no longer be needed or the dosage can be reduced. It is very important if you are taking medications when you begin neurofeedback training that you inform your physician. With changes and improvements in brain functioning, dosages may need to be modified.
WHAT ARE THE NEGATIVE SIDE EFFECTS?
There are no severe or long term side effects. During the first few sessions, while we're trying to find your optimum reward frequency, you may experience feelings of sleepiness, headaches or other mild symptoms, but these do not last long. These indicators help find your optimum reward frequency and once that is achieved, you should feel calm yet alert. The process is a relaxing one.
IS THERE AN ELECTRIC CURRENT INVOLVED?
No. The electrodes are used to amplify your brain wave activity. The software filters the activity and provides feedback to the brain through sight, sound and touch, which allows the brain to adjust itself.
IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?
Anyone can do neurofeedback, but works best when children are at least 3 years old.
HOW LONG ARE THE SESSIONS?
The average time is 30 minutes plus the amount of time it takes to get the electrodes and software situated. Symptoms are tracked during each session which includes reviewing feelings and symptoms since the last session. There is a symptom tracker software which parents or clients can access remotely to update their status daily, which helps with the process. Changes can be noted within 5 sessions, however 20-40 sessions are recommended in order for the benefits to be sustained. Like any other muscle in the body, repetition and consistency are key. Ideally, training consists of 2-3 times a week; however, once a week would be enough to keep the momentum going. If you can commit to twice a week for five weeks before tapering to once a week, you will see lasting results more quickly.
DOES IT WORK FOR EVERYONE?
Research has shown that neurofeedback works for most people. The client has to want to improve in order for treatment to really take hold. For clients who have a negative attitude, do not follow professional advice, make poor decisions regarding nutrition/substances or make other negative life-style choices will not have the success of other clients. Studies have shown neurofeedback to be successful in close to 90% of all cases.