Neurofeedback Research and Questions
How does Neurofeedback work?
Neurofeedback is a painless and non-invasive procedure. After a thorough evaluation, treatment begins. Sensors are placed on the scalp and ear. Brain waves are recorded, amplified and sent to a computer that processes the signal and provides the proper feedback. Feedback about brain activity is given to the trainee, typically by means of a video stimuli. The trainee is simply asked to manage the video with his brain. The equipment does not send any information into your brain; the equipment only reads the electrical signals from your brain and gives you feedback. As desirable brain wave frequency increases, the video game responds. The brain responds to the information given and gradually develops alternative brainwave patterns. In other words, with repeated exposure to this form of feedback, that is both visual and auditory, the brain begins to recognize a relationship between its own activity and what it is observing on the computer monitor. And more simply, the brain begins to recognize itself. This is when learning begins to take place. Once this new learning is consolidated, the new pattern of regulation stabilizes and the changes appear to last.
Learning may be looked at in three ways: subconscious learning, the forming of a conscious association between feelings and brain states, and the development of flexibility in neural pathways. Subconscious learning occurs in a process whereby the brain, at a level below awareness, begins to recognize itself on the computer monitor and to make the changes required to keep the bar above the high jump. This learning process occurs over time and outside the level of conscious awareness. The second way that learning occurs is through the conscious association between indications that the target is being met (i.e. the visual and auditory cues) and how the individual feels. In this way, individuals are able to voluntarily do what is necessary in order to produce that sensation at will. Finally, change through neurofeedback occurs as a result of exercising underdeveloped neural pathways. The more the brain practices moving into a more optimal state, the more flexible it will be in responding to demands.
How many sessions are required and how often do I have to come in for training?
Individuals typically need anywhere from 20 to 120 sessions, with somewhere in the middle being most common.
Clients have to come in a minimum of two times a week. It is recommended that a client come in as much as they can when beginning the process (three to seven times a week for the first month) in order to jump start the process. Sessions last approximately 30 minutes.
Are there side effects in treatment?
Neurofeedback, used by qualified practitioners, is largely free of side effects. Possible side effects that may occur are managed as they come up, by making slight changes to the way in which treatment is delivered. Training may affect the body’s response to medications for the condition and for unrelated conditions, so it is necessary to consult with your physician/psychiatrist.
Is the treatment permanent?
Since Neurofeedback is a learning process, no re-training is required once advances have been made unless trauma occurs, some type of life experience, or use of a substance compromises gains that have been made.
What is the difference between Neurofeedback and Biofeedback?
There is a fundamental difference between traditional instrumented biofeedback and the more recently developed Neurofeedback. Biofeedback helps us learn to take conscious control of our internal terrain for better management of stress and stress-related health problems. With neurofeedback, however, it is not "us" that learns the new behavior: It is our brain. Just as "we" learned to walk and ride a bike, all "we" have to do is go through the motions. (In this case, sit with electrodes on our head and play a video game or watch a video.) Our brain quickly and easily learns what it needs to do to perform complex tasks in a better and more efficient way.