What is EEG Biofeedback? EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback, as it is sometimes called, is a learning strategy that assists individuals in becoming aware of, and able to modify electrical activity in the brain. Through being able to self regulate brain wave patterns, increased flexibility and resilience is made possible. When the brain is more flexible and balanced, an individual is able to think more clearly, improving quality of life. What is it used for? Neurofeedback is used on a variety of symptoms, including physical, emotional and behavioral. Physical symptoms may include headaches, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain, muscle tension and traumatic brain injury. Emotional symptoms may include general anxiety, PTSD, depression and phobias. Behavioral symptoms helped by neurofeedback include alcohol and drug use, dependence on prescription drugs, and sleep disorders. Neurofeedback is also used to increase personal potential in sports, education and leadership. This application is called Peak Performance Training. What can you expect in a session? During the first session Ellen assesses family history, symptom development, and baseline brain wave patterns. Most importantly, the client defines their goals, and the changes they want to make in their functioning. Then a brief training session on the EEG biofeedback equipment is provided. This non-invasive procedure is done by placing sensors on the scalp which pick up the electrical activity of the brain. This information is then displayed on to a computer screen which allows the client to use audio and visual feedback to adjust their own brain wave patterns making the training fun and interesting. Ellen assists the individual in setting goals to allow for maximum self-learning. Subsequent sessions are set up on a weekly or biweekly schedule. Initial response to training can be seen rapidly, generally in six sessions. How does it work? As in the case with many well accepted and commonly used therapies, the exact mechanisms are not completely understood. One dominant hypothesis regarding the effectiveness of neurofeedback is that it increases brain stability. When given feedback on what changes need to be made, the brain has an incredible capacity to make these changes. What results can be expected? It has been well documented that EEG biofeedback can produce increased ability to focus, attend, and concentrate. Individuals increase their capacity to function more productively and reduce maladaptive stress responses which have contributed to their symptoms. In addition to reducing symptoms, EEG biofeedback has also been credited with increased capacity to be creative, thoughtful and motivated. The changes come gradually over time but once made seem to be permanent. What should you look for in a coach? It is important to have a coach who is knowledgeable and experienced with EEG biofeedback. Additional experience in systems theory and therapy is also useful in helping the individual understand the part the emotional process plays in symptom formation. |
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