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Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback as an alternative therapy
There are many forms of Neurofeedback but generally they are all a form of complementary medicine that can help to treat symptoms of a wide range of psychological and physiological disorders.
In virtually every area of our lives, we are able to improve our performance when we get clear and immediate feedback about our how we are functioning. In our current society we are using sophisticated technology more and more to monitor performance and to feed information back to us so we are then able to improve our performance. An example of this is in sport. Technology also enables us to directly alter the functioning of our brains to improve our lives whether that be better performance, improved sleep, reduced pain or stabilize mood. Neurosciences have demonstrated how the brain is adaptable and capable of plasticity (for list of information resources click here).
Neurofeedback or EEG biofeedback uses technology that provides real time information to the brain about how it is performing. Through the same technology information is provided guiding the brain toward adjustment that will improve its performance.
Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently. Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly. Self-regulation is a necessary part of good brain function. Self-regulation training allows the system (the central nervous system) to function better. Neurotherapy/neurofeedback can be used as a starting point to treat dysfunctions of the central nervous system (brain) and its regulatory mechanisms.
Neurofeedback addresses problems of brain dysregulation. These happen to be numerous. They include the anxiety-depression spectrum, attention deficits, behaviour disorders, various sleep disorders, headaches and migraines, PMS and emotional disturbances. It is also useful for organic brain conditions such as seizures, the autism spectrum, and cerebral palsy. It can also help improve the performance of an otherwise well-regulated nervous system.
FAQ
Why does Neurofeedback work?
The brain is amazingly adaptable or 'elastic' and capable of learning. It can learn to improve its own performance, when it is given cues-feedback- about what to change. All learning depends on the feedback, and the brain is the part of us most devoted to learning. By making information available to the brain about how it is functioning, and asking it to make adjustments, it can learn to do so. When the brain is doing a good job of regulating itself, the person will feel calm, alert and attentive. each session challenges the trainee to maintain this 'high-performance state. Gradually, the brain learns, just like it learns everything else, and with sufficient training, it typically retains the regulation it has gained. (Sebern F Fisher 2014)
How frequently should training sessions occur?
Results are seen gradually over time. Indications of progress, however, can be seen within 10-20 sessions. It is best to discuss your individual needs with practitioner.
Affitliate member of :
Neurotherapy Institute of Australasia / Discovering and Creating Solutions
Websites for research:
