Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback works on the principle of learning called operant conditioning. During neurofeedback the brain receives informationon its functioning, whichit utilizes to make subtle adjustments allowing it to reach its optimum desired state. This process requires use of computer technology and is completely non-invasive. There is no use of external electrical or magnetic fields.

The earliest use of neurofeedback was in reducing frequency of seizures in poorly controlled epilepsy despite medications. Thereafter it was used in treatment of ADHD where is it now has been shown toas be as effective as medications in the short-term and perhaps more effective in long term due to its longer lasting effects over decades. In the last two decades neurofeedback research has included Depression, PTSD, OCD, Alcohol dependence, Traumatic brain injury, Chronic pain and even conditions like Schizophrenia where it has shown favourable results. Outside clinical disorders, neurofeedback has been used to improvePeak Performanceof sportsmen, athletes and company executives and to improve memory in people with mild cognitive impairment.

Brain changes during the process of neurofeedbacktraining occur completely outside the individual’s awareness so they are not aware while they are training. But over a few sessions they realize that they are becoming less distracted, or having better sleep, or their nightmares are diminishing. Someone who always had difficulty at finding their way might suddenly realize they are getting better at remembering routes. Someone whose response to situations was generally pessimistic might find they are more interested in things around them.

Neurofeedback has been shown to be effective a range of brain disorders suggesting that its effect are regardless of diagnosis. It is not required that you stop medications while doing neurofeedback, nor it is advisable. This is especially so if someone is suffering from serious condition such as epilepsy or psychosis or bipolar disorder. However, majority of people who end up doing neurofeedback training find that their medication requirement has reduced drastically as brains become more relaxed and better organized.

In general, neurofeedback training is done one to twice weekly to attain optimal response. The length of treatment varies from case to case but average 30-40 sessions will be required to achieve sustained effects. Individuals who have sensitive brains or have chronic developmental conditions may require slightly greater number of sessions as their brains need more time to change. Whereas people with acute onset  conditions might need slightly lesser number of sessions. Every brain is different and the training proceeds at the pace which it can tolerate.

Finally, not all brain conditions are amenable to neurofeedback therapy. Kindly call our staff to get more information on whether or not it is something that can help you.