NEUROFEEDBACK
THERAPY
TRAIN YOUR BRAIN USING
INTEGRATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Neurofeedback is the process of training brainwaves into healthy patterns using modern computer technology. This non-invasive and drug-free approach uses brain imaging technology to record brainwave activity and thus identify unhealthy brainwave patterns. Once irregular patterns have been identified, they can be corrected using guided audio and visual feedback to help individuals self-regulate and optimize their brain function. This unique new technology has been used for decades and has proven effective in our clinic with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Fibromyalgia, Migraines, and many other disorders.
The heart of this process is our Neuro-mapping system, which allows us to image the brain in real time. This precise, objective information reveals different aspects of brain activity; for example, if the brain is running too fast, too slow, or has connectivity issues. The database then generates a training protocol to correct abnormal patterns using neurofeedback. Then, through repetition of training sessions, the brain learns how to make normal healthy patterns independently.
Functional neurology's goal is to improve the overall functioning of the nervous system, including the brain. Neurofeedback is the non-invasive approach that seeks to encourage the nervous system to process and integrate sensory input in organized and meaningful ways, ultimately enhancing the nervous system and brain's ability to function more adequately. Each adaptive response, as it provides feedback into the nervous system, encourages maturation and organization of the nervous system and brain at increasingly higher levels. Ultimately, the individual can interact with their environment more successfully and adaptively.
Here are five conditions that can be positively influenced through Neurofeedback:
1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
2. Anxiety Disorders
3. Depression
4. Insomnia and Sleep Disorders
5. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
It must be noted that different conditions are associated with various brainwaves, independent of the Neuro-Mapping each individual receives of their brain. Therefore, each Neuro-Map is unique, and each patient's Neurofeedback protocol is specific to their needs. Still, regardless of the condition, neurofeedback's end goal is to regulate and modulate unhealthy brainwave patterns into healthy patterns that help a person's life or condition.
For example, individuals with ADHD may have brainwave activity with high theta brainwaves and low beta waves. Theta brainwaves are slow brainwaves that are typically associated with daydreaming and sleepiness. Excessive theta wave activity in individuals with ADHD may contribute to difficulties with focus, impulse control, attention, and hyperactivity. While low beta waves may be associated with decreased alertness, concentration, and cognitive processing. A neurofeedback treatment helps self-regulate unhealthy brainwave activity and non-invasively assists the brain in shifting into healthier brainwave patterns which may help the symptoms of ADHD.
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, safe, and holistic approach to treating many conditions that are often treated otherwise. If you are seeking brain optimization treatment via neurofeedback, in Charlotte, NC, fill out the form below or call us at 704-752-8100.
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THE BRAIN IS THE ORGAN OF BEHAVIOREmotions are reflections of the energy in the brain: excess Beta can produce anxiety, too much frontal Alpha can result in depression, and elevated Theta can produce ADD. Re-training brainwaves allows the central nervous system to learn how to self-regulate, directing it away from debilitating, painful, destructive disorders. Research and clinical studies show that many cognitive conditions which are unresponsive to medication or psychotherapy can be resolved with neurofeedback in 20-40 sessions. Some chronic disorders spanning many years, including those complicated by substance abuse, can show improvement after just one session!
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WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?Neurofeedback works by reconnecting functional pathways in the brain through audio and video stimulation, which reinforces the brain when it’s operating in normal ranges. Eventually, the brain learns to stay in the healthy ranges independent of the computer-driven training program. Neurofeedback does not target any disorder, rather it changes timing and activation patterns in the brain. This improves brain regulation, which can impact a variety of symptoms. Different brain areas are targeted depending on the symptoms, which reflect brain dysfunctions. The brain is a highly complex organ made up of billions of cells called neurons, which send and receive messages to and from all parts of your body. These messages are electrical impulses that create brain waves.
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WHAT IS A BRAIN MAP?A brain map is an important tool we use to evaluate our brainwaves and identify opportunities to improve communication between various regions of the brain. The brain map can capture a window of brain activity, analyze the data, and create a visual representation of each lobe of the brain and each specific brainwave (Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta). Once a brain map is analyzed, neurofeedback sessions can be performed to train your brain back into healthy patterns. The first step is to record an image of the brain. This non-invasive process involves recording brainwaves for six minutes with eyes open and six more minutes with eyes closed.
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HOW WE ANALYZE THE RESULTSYour EEG recording is uploaded to a safe database that compares your brain to individuals of the same age and gender who have normal brain function. Your brain map report identifies any emotional and cognitive issues by showing the areas of the brain that are operating outside of the normal range. A suggested protocol is generated and is designed to stabilize the area of the brain which has been identified as the most abnormal.
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HOW LONG ARE THE SESSIONS?These sessions execute the protocols from the brain map to correct and repair neural pathways. Sessions last 30 minutes, and involve watching a movie or listening to music while wearing photic light glasses. These glasses use light emissions to stimulate the brain and improve the effects of neurofeedback. Patients typically take 1 to 3 sessions per week for a total of 20 to 40 sessions. 30 years of research suggests that the results of neurofeedback are long-lasting.