How
neurofeedback works
Neurofeedback is brain training that helps the brain to regulate itself. Neurofeedback training involves a thorough intake assessment to gather information about symptoms and history, and then the development of a training program tailored to each individual to address their symptoms and goals. It is a collaborative, hands-on, in-person training whereby sensors that pick up brain activity (with no input to the brain) are placed on various areas of the scalp to train specific brain regions, and information about the brain’s activity is reflected back to the brain via visual, auditory, and sensory cues. Much like ballerinas use a mirror to self-correct their movements, the brain automatically self-corrects when being given information about its activity, which leads to the brain functioning more efficiently and resolution of symptoms and problems.
Neurofeedback is a great non-medication option to address a wide variety of concerns. It is non-invasive, in that there is no electrical current or other input sent into the brain; the sensors only “listen” to brain activity much as a stethoscope “listens” to the heart or lungs. Neurofeedback is also non-judgmental in the following ways: the focus is on symptoms rather than on diagnoses; all information that the client gives on improving as well as worsening symptoms is valuable for guiding the training; and symptoms are discussed and rated in general terms with no requirement for clients to reveal personal details or elaborate on the concerns or past experiences.
Another positive aspect to neurofeedback is that no conscious effort is required on the part of the person being trained. During the training sessions, the individual has only to sit and watch a pleasant show or favorite movie, or play a video game.
The feedback to the brain is delivered in three forms: visual, auditory, and sensory
(through subtle changes in the monitor, headphones/sound, and vibrations of the tactile stuffed animal respectively). The “work” is all done subconsciously by the brain itself, as it interacts with the constant stream of information being reflected back to it.
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Symptoms neurofeedback addresses
Peak performance training
Neurofeedback is a very effective non-medication tool to address anxiety, depression, emotional reactivity, inability to focus (ADD), hyperactivity, recovery from and processing of trauma, sleep difficulties, emotional reactivity, headaches/migraines, TBIs (traumatic brain injuries), seizures, addictions, eating/GI (gastro-intestinal) disorders, addictions, and specific dysfunction within the brain. Neurofeedback has also been used effectively to enhance performance and creative expression. Neurofeedback is appropriate for populations of virtually any age, culture, occupation, condition, or previous history.
Neurofeedback training is tailored to each client, and we work together to reduce the symptoms that the client chooses to target.
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More Neurofeedback Resources and Information
For Neurofeedback Advocacy Project (our affiliation listed): www.neurofeedbackadvocacyproject.com
For EEG Info and the Othmer method (the type of neurofeedback provided at Rally), with many articles on neurofeedback research:
For great videos explaining neurofeedback: