Biofeedback

When discussing Neurofeedback (NFB), it’s essential to first understand Biofeedback. Identified by Neil Miller in the early 1950s, Biofeedback is a learning technique that uses medical instruments to provide immediate feedback on the autonomic nervous system. Dr. Miller demonstrated that once a person is aware of their body’s functions, they can change them with proper guidance. Instruments such as thermometers, blood pressure cuffs, devices that measure skin conductivity, respiratory meters, ECGs, or EEGs can all serve as Biofeedback tools.

In Neurofeedback, an EEG machine records brain activity and sends the data to a computer, which then presents the results to the client in a game-like format. This process enables a person to learn to control and regulate various internal processes—such as blood pressure, temperature, or respiration—by understanding the brain’s electrical activity.

But what does this mean for an individual? The core goal of NFB is self-regulation, which is a broad and powerful objective. It affects sleep, energy levels, social interactions, concentration, emotional balance, physical reactions (such as pain management), and hypersensitivities. Each of these areas is governed by different regions of the brain, and improvements in one area can positively affect another. NFB practitioners look at aspects like sleep quality, memory, attention, emotional stability, and sensory sensitivity to determine how to guide the brain toward optimal function.

A common misconception is that NFB “cures” problems. It doesn’t. Instead, it helps the brain function more efficiently, which can have widespread benefits. When someone is trained to improve concentration, for example, their emotional stability and behavior often improve as well, even if that wasn’t the primary focus. Similarly, reducing hyperactivity can enhance sleep quality. If someone seeks relief from chronic pain, their anxiety might improve as a side effect of the training, even if anxiety wasn’t a concern.

NFB is comparable to a well-rounded exercise program. You might start an exercise routine for one reason, like losing weight, but it also improves stamina, heart health, cholesterol levels, and muscle tone. Likewise, while NFB might not directly lead to weight loss or help someone quit smoking, it can help regulate mood. This, in turn, makes those habits more manageable because they no longer serve a stabilizing role for the person.

NFB won’t automatically improve a child’s grades at school, but it can enhance concentration, focus, organization, and self-regulation, making it easier for them to succeed academically if they are motivated to do so.

An ideal candidate for Neurofeedback is someone who wants to remain calm under stress, improve their concentration, sleep better, and handle tasks efficiently without becoming overwhelmed. Essentially, it’s for people seeking greater ease and balance in self-regulation.

If you or someone you know works with highly stressed, type-A individuals, people struggling with organization and focus, or those dealing with emotional regulation challenges, my husband and I are eager to connect. We’re particularly interested in connecting with professionals such as counselors, doctors, massage therapists, exercise and yoga instructors, school principals, and spiritual counselors.

This email came over my desk awhile ago:

“I work in a charter school in Asheville, NC that has had a neuro feedback program in place for several years. Results with the ADD/LD population (among others) have been impressive, especially when compared to outcomes using traditional intervention methods alone. We are in the process of collecting data to document the success we are having.

The school employees two NFB providers – myself and a special education teacher (also BCIA certified). We consult weekly with Dr. Phil Ellis who provides NFB to students at the school receiving NFB for non educational concerns. Dr. Ellis is in large part responsible for establishing and growing the program at Evergreen. We are always happy to share our journey.”

Fernandez T., Herrera W., Harmony T., Diaz-Comas L., Santiago, E., Sanchez L., et al. EEG and behavioral changes following neurofeedback treatment in learning disabled children. Clinical Electroencephalography 2003, 34(3):145-152

Neurofeedback is proving to be an invaluable tool for those battling chronic pain, offering a holistic, non-invasive, and drug-free method for symptom management. Here’s how neurofeedback supports individuals in managing chronic pain and enhancing life quality:

Targeting Pain at Its Source: Neurofeedback aids in retraining the brain to modulate pain responses more effectively. By adjusting brainwave patterns in regions that process pain, it can substantially diminish the intensity of pain, making it more manageable.

Alleviating Associated Stress and Anxiety: Chronic pain often escalates stress and anxiety, which in turn, can intensify the pain. Neurofeedback trains the brain to achieve a calmer state, which can decrease both the perception of pain and the associated emotional distress.

Promoting Restorative Sleep: Many suffering from chronic pain struggle with sleep issues, which exacerbate their condition. Neurofeedback works to normalize sleep patterns by enhancing brainwaves that promote relaxation and sleep, breaking the vicious cycle of pain and sleep disturbances.

Enhancing Emotional Well-being: Chronic pain can take a toll on one’s emotional health, leading to depression or emotional instability. Neurofeedback facilitates emotional regulation by modifying the brainwave activity linked to mood, fostering an overall improvement in mental health.

Empowering Self-management: Real-time feedback from neurofeedback sessions empowers individuals to actively engage in their own treatment. This empowerment can boost self-efficacy, leading to improved strategies for coping with pain and its effects on daily life.

Boosting Cognitive Function: Pain can cloud cognitive functions such as memory and concentration. Neurofeedback focuses on improving these areas by enhancing brain efficiency, helping individuals regain control over their mental faculties.

Offering Durable Benefits: Unlike traditional pain medications that provide temporary relief with potential side effects, neurofeedback aims for enduring changes in brain function, potentially providing a long-term solution to pain management.

Neurofeedback provides a comprehensive solution that addresses both the physical sensations of pain and its psychological impacts, offering a promising alternative for those seeking to manage their pain and improve their quality of life. These insights are detailed in the “Evidence-Based Practice in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback, 4th edition,” published by the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB), highlighting the importance of ongoing research and documentation in advancing neurofeedback as a mainstream therapy for chronic pain and related conditions.

The growing success of biofeedback and neurofeedback techniques in helping individuals with PTSD is encouraging. Approaches such as Heart Rate Variability (HRV) training, Infralow Neurofeedback (ILF-NFB), and Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback (NFB) have shown significant promise in alleviating common PTSD symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, dissociation, and depression.

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Training:
HRV is the measure of variation in the time between consecutive heartbeats. Rather than the heart beating at a steady rate, the intervals between heartbeats naturally fluctuate. HRV is influenced by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which is divided into two branches:

Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS): Responsible for the “fight or flight” response, it increases heart rate in response to stress or danger.
Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS): Often called the “rest and digest” system, it slows the heart rate and promotes relaxation.
HRV is a reliable indicator of the balance between these two systems. Higher HRV generally reflects a healthy, adaptable nervous system that responds flexibly to stress, while lower HRV can indicate stress, fatigue, or autonomic dysregulation. HRV training helps individuals enhance this balance, promoting resilience and emotional regulation, making it particularly beneficial for PTSD and anxiety management.

Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback (NFB):
Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback focuses on training two key brainwave frequencies—Alpha (8-12 Hz) and Theta (4-8 Hz)—which are linked to states of relaxation, creativity, and deep meditative awareness. During this training, an EEG monitors the brain’s electrical activity, and the goal is to increase the amplitude of these frequencies to foster relaxation, emotional processing, and creativity.

Alpha-Theta training is particularly useful for trauma and PTSD treatment because it helps individuals access deep emotional states and process traumatic memories in a calm, meditative state. It also promotes stress reduction, emotional healing, and enhanced cognitive function, making it a powerful tool for those suffering from PTSD.

Infralow Neurofeedback (ILF-NFB):
Infralow Neurofeedback targets very low-frequency brainwaves, typically below 0.1 Hz. These infralow frequencies are thought to play a crucial role in regulating overall brain function and stability. Unlike traditional neurofeedback, which focuses on faster frequencies like Alpha or Beta, ILF-NFB aims to balance basic regulatory functions such as mood stability, emotional regulation, and autonomic nervous system control.

ILF-NFB is especially beneficial for individuals with complex conditions such as trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and attention deficits. It helps stabilize arousal levels and reduces emotional reactivity in trauma survivors, aiding in the regulation of anxiety, hypervigilance, and flashbacks.

Current Research:
The Veterans Affairs office in Hawaii is currently conducting a long-term study on the effectiveness of neurofeedback for veterans with PTSD. This research is significant because it adds to the growing evidence that neurofeedback can reduce symptoms like hyperarousal and intrusive memories. Additionally, there is strong evidence that neurofeedback can effectively address related issues such as general anxiety and depression.

While the findings from studies involving PTSD veterans and trauma survivors are promising, there is still a need for larger, more comprehensive research to further validate neurofeedback as a mainstream therapeutic option. These insights are thoroughly explored in the Evidence-Based Practice in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback, 4th Edition, published by the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB). Ongoing research and documentation are crucial for advancing neurofeedback as a recognized treatment for PTSD and other mental health conditions.

Yes, neurofeedback can be an effective treatment for insomnia. This therapy helps by training individuals to modify their brainwave patterns, promoting a balance that is conducive to better sleep. Here’s how neurofeedback specifically assists with insomnia:

Regulating Brainwaves: Insomnia often involves disruptions in specific brainwave patterns, particularly an overactivity of high-frequency waves like beta waves, which are associated with alertness and waking states. Neurofeedback targets these patterns, training the brain to produce more of the lower-frequency alpha and theta waves that are conducive to relaxation and sleep.

Enhancing Relaxation: Neurofeedback sessions can help enhance overall relaxation and reduce anxiety, which are common contributors to insomnia. By learning to control and regulate brain activity, individuals can better manage stress and anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Improving Sleep Quality: Through the modulation of brainwaves, neurofeedback can improve the quality of sleep, increasing the amount of restorative sleep stages. This not only helps in falling asleep faster but also in achieving deeper, more restful sleep.

Cognitive and Emotional Benefits: By improving sleep, neurofeedback also helps in enhancing cognitive function and emotional regulation, which can be adversely affected by poor sleep.

Long-Term Benefits: Unlike some sleep medications, neurofeedback provides a potential long-term solution to insomnia without the risks of dependency or side effects. Over time, patients can learn to maintain healthy sleep patterns independently.

Research and clinical practices have shown positive results, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in their sleep patterns following a course of neurofeedback sessions. However, individual results can vary, and it is often recommended as part of a comprehensive approach that may include cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and proper sleep hygiene practices.

These conclusions are detailed in the “Evidence-Based Practice in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback, 4th edition,” published by the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback (AAPB).

Neurofeedback has indeed shown promising results across various conditions, particularly in the treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Research over the years has explored its efficacy, with the following key points emerging from the literature:

ADHD and Neurofeedback:

Effectiveness:

Studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), suggest that neurofeedback can significantly reduce core symptoms of ADHD such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Meta-analyses, which synthesize data from multiple studies, also support the effectiveness of neurofeedback in improving these symptoms. Importantly, these improvements are often sustained long after treatment concludes, suggesting lasting benefits

Support from Key Researchers:

Researchers like Joel Lubar and Vincent Monastra have been pioneers in neurofeedback research for ADHD. Lubar’s work has been instrumental in showing how neurofeedback can help modulate brainwave activity associated with ADHD symptoms. Monastra’s studies further provide evidence for neurofeedback’s positive impact on behavior and cognitive function in children with ADHD.
This research, combined with clinical evidence, has led neurofeedback to be regarded as a potentially viable treatment option for ADHD, especially for those seeking alternatives to medication.
Evidence-Based Status:

According to the 4th Edition of Evidence-Based Practice in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback, neurofeedback is classified as an evidence-based and preferred treatment for ADHD. This classification is based on a body of research that supports its efficacy in reducing symptoms and improving overall cognitive function.

While neurofeedback is gaining acceptance in the treatment of ADHD, the level of evidence for its effectiveness can vary depending on the specific condition being addressed. For ADHD, the research is robust and promising.

Neurofeedback can benefit many individuals, especially those with brain dysregulation-related conditions. The groups that may experience significant improvements include:

Individuals with ADHD: Neurofeedback helps improve focus, attention, and impulse control.
People with Anxiety and Depression: It can reduce symptoms, enhance mood, and improve emotional regulation.
Patients with PTSD: Neurofeedback aids in managing hyperarousal, intrusive thoughts, and emotional stability.
Those with Sleep Disorders: It helps improve sleep quality and addresses issues like insomnia.
Individuals with Chronic Pain: Neurofeedback can reduce pain perception and enhance overall quality of life.

This therapeutic approach provides a versatile, non-invasive option for those seeking relief from various mental and physical health challenges.

Boost Mental Control and Performance with Neurofeedback

Do you know an athlete looking to boost instinctive control, reduce overthinking, and quickly recover mentally after an error? Mental control under pressure can be the key to winning. Neurofeedback technology has unlocked the ability to measure and enhance mental performance, helping athletes access the “zone” with greater consistency.

Performance Brain Training uses brainwave sensors to provide real-time feedback, allowing athletes to see and train their brain’s optimal states for focus, reaction speed, and mental recovery. Our advanced equipment, used by top facilities like the Canadian Olympic Team Headquarters, is designed to elevate performance under pressure.

Key Benefits:

Sustaining Focus
Increasing Reaction Time
Managing High Pressure
Mental Resetting After Errors
Who Can Benefit?

Professional Athletes
Minor Leagues
Collegiate & Junior Athletes
Executives & Recreational Competitors

Ready to enhance performance? Connect with us today!

Parenting a child with ADHD is a partnership where both parent and child aim for the child’s eventual independence. However, this journey can feel like a battle for control, as children with ADHD often struggle with memory, organization, and impulsiveness. Here’s how to nurture that partnership effectively:

1. Put the Brakes On: Teach your child to stop when asked by using clear cues. Use a simple hand signal or verbal command like “Look at me” or “Quiet now,” paired with an attention-grabbing sound like a clap or buzzer.

2. Keep Instructions Simple: Give clear, concise instructions and have your child repeat them. For example, for homework: “Write it down, bring it home, and put it on your desk.” Repeat variations of these reminders throughout the day to reinforce the task.

3. Create Organizational Systems Together: ADHD kids forget things easily. Set up a consistent system they can rely on:
o Place a box by the front door for school essentials.
o Use morning and afternoon checklists for items like homework, books, and lunch boxes.
o Use favorite devices (like a Game Boy) as strategic spots for reminders.

4. Use Timed Reminders: Set alarms for transitions between activities. Use gentle prompts from parents and teachers to guide your child to the next task without disrupting their focus.

5. Daily Room Organization: Encourage a daily room tidy-up with a set time and a reward afterward. ADHD kids can get overwhelmed by clutter, so regular, small clean-ups help maintain a manageable space.

6. Embrace Your Child’s Creativity: Enjoy and celebrate your child’s unique perspective and creativity. With your support, they’ll grow into an imaginative and original adult.

7. And consider neurofeedback intervention: Neurofeedback, a gentle, noninvasive, and fun treatment which improves focus and memory while keeping your child’s creativity.

With patience and structured support, you can help your child navigate their challenges and build the skills needed for a successful and independent future.

Peggy

The New South Wales Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors (STARTTS), in Sydney,  is one of Australia’s leading organisations that helps refugees recover from their experiences and build a new life in Australia.  Most of these refugees have been exposed to multiple traumatic events and suffer severe PTSD.

STARTTS currently employs over 170 professionals from a diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds speaking at least 25 different languages and they utilise a bio-psycho-social model in assessing the impact of trauma, planning treatment and framing interventions. Their services include:

• Neurofeedback and biofeedback
• Counselling and psychotherapy
• Physiotherapy and acupuncture
• Naturopath consultations
• Psychiatric assessment/treatment
• Group therapy/treatment
• Yoga, Capoeira classes

Neurofeedback was added several years ago, and their rate of success in fully rehabilitating these refugee victims has skyrocketed. The Neurofeedback group had reduced symptoms of Trauma, Anxiety and Depression from Pre to Post assessments compared with the waiting list control group. They also increased their cognitive and verbal ability and were able to discharge many of the experimental group as fully rehabilitated citizens able to contribute to society.

The results have been so meaningful that STARTTS now offer neurofeedback to all their clients.  

In the US, where trauma treatment is fragmented, driven by the pharmaceutical companies, and dictated by insurance firms, wraparound services are not available, neurofeedback is offered only to clients who search, and our treatment outcomes are poor.  Perhaps we could take the Australia lead and provide a wide range of services to those who are in need.