Neurofeedback - EEG Biofeedback
The Basic Set-up:
What Does it Do?
Neurofeedback is FDA approved for Stress Relief and is believed to work by calming the central nervous system via the brainwaves and patterns which are targeted by the NFB professional. Outcomes include:
- improved sleep & digestion
- less reactivity and increased emotional regulation
- decreased depression & anxiety
- increased focus and concentration, etc.
- improved sleep & digestion
- less reactivity and increased emotional regulation
- decreased depression & anxiety
- increased focus and concentration, etc.
How Does it Work?
- A client has 2-4 sensors and an ear clip placed on their head/ear, in various locations depending on desired outcomes.
- Those sensors are connected to an amplifier which is then connected to my computer.
- The client then plays a game. There are no controllers; they control the game by calming themselves which calms their brainwaves.
- The computer game helps the person fine tune their brainwaves through the feedback in real time.
- Some of this is conscious but most of it is unconscious except to set the intention that they'd like to play the game.
The Short Story on Brainwaves:
In NFB, brainwaves or the speed at which neurons are firing, are read through the sensors using an EEG amplifier and then represented on the screen like waves and measured by how many (amplitude) are firing at what speed (hz) such at 1-4hz, 12.5 avg. We group those into slow wave, reward band, and fast wave. Brainwaves control what parts of the brain fire and at what speed. By the brain learning to make healthier brainwave patterns/speeds, a variety of positive outcomes can be achieved.
FAQ:
Do the sensors shock me?
- No. They just read your brain waves, like a heart rate monitor or fitbit but for brain waves.
- Brains just learn but especially patterns. The way to keep your brain in the new pattern, is to keep coming to sessions. With sufficient practice, your brain will keep the new pattern just as it would if you learned to shoot a basketball a new way.
- But it doesn’t hurt to help your brain stay calm by doing things like yoga, meditation, and other coping or calming skills.
To Learn More About NFB:
General Neurofeedback Info:
"About Neurofeedback" - http://www.aboutneurofeedback.com/neurofeedback-info-center/faq/
What is Neurofeedback Article - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-resilient-brain/201410/what-is-neurofeedback
NFB Certification & Provider Search - www.bcia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1
EEGer NFB Providers (my software system) - http://www.esiaffiliatesforum.com/providers/us
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Study on NFB & Autism (but broadly applicable info) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E5HfKGyE3Y8
NFB for Developmental Trauma/Adverse Childhood Events:
Sebern Fisher - http://www.sebernfisher.com/
Robert Coben & Multivariant Coherence Training - http://www.integrated-neuro.com/
Ruth Lanius & Her Research - www.researchgate.net/profile/Ruth_Lanius3
