With recent discoveries in the field of neuroplasticity (modifying brain functioning), it is now known that we can change the way our brains work and process information, emotions and other input. The results with neurofeedback have been very good. There have been numerous research studies (see bottom of page) supporting its effectiveness. Individuals from a broad spectrum are experiencing the benefits of this exciting modality.
Patients with ADD have reported significant improvements in executive functioning and reduced symptoms of restlessness, distractibility and impulsivity. Patients with mild to moderate brain injury have reported recovering the ability to process information, as well as improved short-term memory, organization, sequencing, prioritizing, sensory discrimination, initiation, confidence and assertiveness. Depression, irritability and explosiveness are also symptoms that respond well. More severe problems may require more treatments. Visits are usually 1 or 2 times per week, with frequency and intensity dependent on individual response to treatment. Improvements in functioning are often long lasting. Other conditions that may improve with neurofeedback include bipolar depression, anxiety, OCD, fibromyalgia and Asperger syndrome.
Neurofeedback is also used in peak performance training. Individuals in the performing arts, athletes, students and others involved in activities requiring high levels of functioning appreciate the advantage of performing at their peak potential. And when one knows of having lost that potential, reclaiming it is really regaining the world of possibilities.
In my opinion, if any medication had demonstrated such a wide spectrum of efficacy, it would be universally accepted and widely used…
Frank H. Duffy, M.D., Professor and Pediatric Neurologist at Harvard Medical School
The Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) created by Dr. Len Ochs, is a form of brainwave biofeedback, or neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is a noninvasive procedure that monitors and analyzes the brain’s electrical activity, also known as the electroencephalogram or EEG, and then uses this information to formulate the feedback, which is delivered through the same sensors used to monitor brainwaves. Although the feedback signal is low in energy, it produces measurable changes in brain activity. The EEG signals that are recorded through the sensors influence the feedback stimulation, which may normalize the brain’s electrical activity.
Traditional Neurofeedback uses operant conditioning to “shape” one’s brainwaves towards optimal functioning. Just as we can influence positive change in animals and humans by rewarding desired behavior, we can do the same with our brains. A reward for a brain is not a compliment or a sweet treat though. What the brain craves is stimuli, especially visual and auditory stimuli. With traditional neurofeedback the person’s brain gets rewarded by moving through a video game only when their brain is producing optimum brain frequencies. Over time one can train their brain to operate at a higher level of functioning.
Neurofeedback Research: