Neurofeedback —”Connection” Therapy

A powerful modality some of our counselors incorporate into the psychotherapy process is a technique called neurofeedback.  The best definition of neurofeedback comes from two of its early pioneers, Susan and Siegfried Othmer: "Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently. We observe the brain in action from moment to moment. We show that information back to the person. And we reward the brain for changing its own activity to more appropriate patterns. This is a gradual learning process. It applies to any aspect of brain function that we can measure. Neurofeedback is also called EEG Biofeedback, because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram, or EEG. Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly.” Self-regulation is vital to good brain function. Self-regulation training enables the Central Nervous System to operate at its peak performance.

In simple terms, neurofeedback is a kind of conversation that takes place between a person and a computer, facilitated by the therapist. The individual receives video/audio/tactile feedback about his/her brain states—the frequency of these rewards are adjusted by the therapist in real time until the individual achieves his/her highest level of relaxation and engagement.  Like learning a language, these conversations take place over time until it is eventually mastered.  Adding neurofeedback as a modality to therapy is suggested for the following:

• ADD/ADHD (testing available)

• Asperger's Disorder

• Autism

• Bipolar

• Conduct Disorder

• Epilepsy

• Migraines/Stroke/TBI