Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is a new and promising approach used to treat symptoms related to ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, phobias and many more.  It utilizes brain waves (EEG) to teach patients to re-train their brains in order to decrease symptoms and increase positive brain activity. 

Research has determined that certain areas of the brain control certain activities such as focusing, anxiety, phobias, obsessive thoughts, organization, mood etc.  Increasing or decreasing activity in these areas can produce significant decreases in symptoms.

A clinician begins by completing a thorough assessment of the patient to determine the presenting problem and discuss the appropriateness of utilizing neurofeedback as a mode of treatment.  During a typical session, the clinician places sensors on the patient's head to obtain an EEG and to determine the course of treatment.  The patient is then provided a computer screen in which he or she "plays" a video game.  The controls to the game are the sensors on the patient's head.  When the patient's brain activity is within the desired frequency, the patient is rewarded through success in the video game.  This process teaches the brain to function at the desired frequency thus training the brain to function within this level.  Studies have demonstrated significant long lasting benefits for a variety of problems.

Sessions typically are scheduled two times per week for an average of 20 -40 sessions.  The number of sessions required is determined by individual results.  Some individuals  periodically continue with sessions after treatment is complete in order to fine tune the desired affect.

Rachel Thorpe, LICSW and JoAnne Waite, LMFT are qualified to practice neurofeedback within our practice.

Please see the following links for more information:

http://eric.ed.gov/ERICWebPortal/custom/portlets/recordDetails/detailmini.jsp?_nfpb=true&_&ERICExtSearch_SearchValue_0=ED457634&ERICExtSearch_SearchType_0=eric_accno&accno=ED457634

http://www.eegspectrum.com/Applications/Autism/EfficacyAutistic/

http://www.eegspectrum.com/HealthProfFAQ/

http://www.alertfocus.com/evidence/research.php