Neurofeedback Training
Author: Wanda Mandell,M.A.

The Bloomsburg Psychological Center is now offering Neurofeedback Training (NF). Also known as EEG Biofeedback and Neurotherapy, this training process helps people learn how to regulate and optimized their own brainwave patterns.

The three-pound human brain consists of 10 billion neurons with 10 trillion synaptic connections. Every thought, every memory, every sensation produces neurological and chemical changes. The brain is an amazingly intricate and phenomenally complex organ. When it is functioning optimally an individual works at his/her fullest potential. Sometimes, however, through trauma (physical or emotional ) or other conditions, the brainís functioning can be hindered. A range of symptoms may arise as a result.

With its 30 year history steeped in successful results with epilepsy and seizures, the usefulness of NF has seen a rebirth with the advent of high speed computers. Today NF training is being used with a variety of conditions including depression, ADD, chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety disorders, sleep onset problems, hypervigilance, stroke, anger/aggression, spasticity, tics, OCD, and migraine headaches among others.

Neurofeedback training is a painless, non-invasive process. Sensors (electrodes) are pasted on the scalp, which then record the individualís brainwaves. The pattern is viewed directly by the therapist, while at the same time it is translated into a computer game for the trainee. Using only his or her brainwaves, the participant plays one of a variety of computer games. When the desired brain frequencies are produced, points are earned for rewards. The brain is challenged to maintain this state during the training period. Long-term training allows maintenance of overall nervous system stability.

Neurofeedback is a learning process that takes time. Initial progress can be seen in 5-10 sessions (each appointment is one hour), although most conditions may take as many as 20-40 sessions, or more. For the best and longest-lasting results, 2 sessions per week are recommended. In the process, the trainee learns to regulate his/her own brain state and ultimately maintains the gains. Thus the individual becomes empowered with an increased neural flexibility and greater success in regulating his or her own brainwaves.

For more information, please visit the following sites. The EEG Spectrum page is especially helpful if you are looking for a summary of current research and anecdotal case studies.

Related Links:

EEG Sprectrum: http://www.eegspectrum.com/

PA Society for Behavioral Medicine & Biofeedback: http://www.biofeedback.net/psbmb

Association for Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback: http://www.aapb.org

Society for Neuronal Regulation: http://www.snr-jnt.org/

Futurehealth: http://www.futurehealth.org/

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