Neurofeedback FAQs
Answers For Your Neurofeedback Questions
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback training that uses electroencephalogram (EEG) to train the brain.
Once a QEEG is acquired on an individual, an individualized training protocol is created based on their brain activity. This training protocol basically asks the brain to change in some way.
For example, if an individual has an excess of high beta activity in their right temporal lobe, the training protocol will reward the brain when it lowers that activity in that specific problematic area. Using a computer and operant conditioning, stimulus is used as the reward. For eyes open training, a video is used.
The video’s audio and picture modulate on and off, rewarding the brain when it’s brainwaves take to the requested pattern, and turning off and going silent when the brain returns to the pattern it is accustomed to.
This modulation happens at a very fast rate. As the sessions progress, the new neural pathways solidify in the brain.
To learn more please read the full article titled What Is Neurofeedback
What sorts of conditions can Neurofeedback help with?
Depression
Anxiety
Panic disorder
TBI
PTSD
Schizophrenia
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Dementia
Sleep problems
Peak Performance training
Cognitive Training for Executives
Cognitive Training for Elderly
Cognitive Training for Youth
Cognitive Training for Athletes
How long is each session?
Then there are 30 minutes of eyes open neurofeedback training using a video, followed by an equal amount of time eyes closed training using a compilation of audio tones.
How many sessions will I need?
Most trainees respond to 10 sessions. Individual results are based on accuracy of training, number of sites needing training, duration of training and learning ability of the trainee.
How long does it take to see and feel results?
After every 10 sessions, or at the completion of your course of treatment, a follow-up Qeeg will be performed. This is then compared to your previous Qeeg to track improvement.
How long do results last?
Some studies have shown that individuals who learned computer aided braintraining were able to demonstrate brainwave changes even after ten years.
Results vary and some individuals require tune-ups from time to time.
What is a Neuropractic evaluation?
The technique has been used successfully in tens of thousands of clients.
NeuropracticTM is an educational technique based on two principals, calibration of brain activity and reconnection with life. The technique was developed through Dr. Starr’s experience with over twenty years in the mental health and neuroscience fields.
NeuropracticTM takes into account all of the factors that may cause suffering and assists the individual to recalibrate their nervous system and to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.
The evaluation is based on the Quantitative Electroencephalogram, brain performance testing and our detailed questionnaires.
What is a QEEG?
The results of the analysis are called brain maps. These maps allow a clinician to detect subtle variations in the activity of the brain which can go unnoticed in a traditional EEG.
Subtle brain wave variations might provide evidence of an underlying issue that can be evaluated and treated.
What is an EEG?
These patterns are commonly referred to as brain waves. EEG is often used to detect problems in electrical brain activity which can be caused by brain disorders.
What is the difference between an EEG and a QEEG?
The difference between the two is simple, it’s the “q”. A standard EEG records the brainwaves which shows a person’s electrical brain activity. EEG data is usually represented by rolling, wavy lines on paper which are interpreted by a clinician. Meanwhile, a Qeeg uses complex analysis to compare these brainwaves to various databases to help detect possible abnormalities A Qeeg analysis will allow us to create brain maps of the person’s electrical brain activity. This allows a clinician to detect possible irregularities not seen on a normal EEG.
To learn more please read the article; EEG vs. QEEG
How is an QEEG taken?
A small amount of conductive gel is put into each sensor to ensure a clear connection between the electrode and the person’s scalp. Once the connection between the cap and scalp is checked all the scan can begin.
The client will sit in a chair quietly for a few minutes with eyes closed and then another few minutes of recording with their eyes open. During this time the computer is recording and saving the electrical activity in the brain. The entire process takes 15 minutes.
Does the QEEG hurt?
What happens after the QEEG is acquired?
The Doctor will then do a live video conference with the client, reviewing the initial Qeeg and explaining the findings, as well as the reasonings for the specific Neurofeedback protocol which is to be carried out by our Brain Tuners.
How frequently and/or consecutively should I schedule my training sessions?
What does Neuropractic Braintuning feel like?
Braintuning is a learning process. Some people report feeling more alert or calm after a session. Results are usually noticed within one to five sessions.
Does Neurofeedback reverse psychiatric disorders?
As a result of Neuropractic, trainees report feeling calmer, more balanced, focused, rested, and mindful. Neuropractic cannot treat or diagnose any psychiatric disorder as these are based on observation and not brainwaves. There is no parallel.
Neuropractic is not a medical technique, it is an educational tool that helps teach the brain to work more efficiently.
Is Neurofeedback safe with Medication?
Neurofeedback is not a way to “get off,” medication. It is a tool to reduce symptoms. If symptoms are reduced medication can be reduced with improved functioning. A significant proportion of our clients are able to discontinue their medications.
Is Neurofeedback safe for children?
The optimal age in childhood for Neurofeedback is around seven years old. At this age, the brain has reached a level of maturity and stability. Before this age, there is a great amount of brain development and therefore a successful round of training may not last as long as it would in an adult. Teenagers do especially well with Neurofeedback.
The are already computer savvy and have an understanding that the computer can assist their brain to function better. Younger children and Teenagers tend to take fewer sessions because their younger brains learn faster.
How best to prepare your child for a session?
It is best to sensitize these children with a swimming cap or shower cap leading up to the sessions so they are comfortable having something on their heads.
Are there side effects to Neurofeedback?
Do they have a clinical degree in mental health? If the answer is no, I would run for the hills. Individuals without specific professional training in mental health have no business working in this field without proper supervision.
How long have they been doing Neurofeedback and are they certified by an international organization that requires some standard of practice. In North America the organization is called The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America and in Europe there is the Biofeedback Federation of Europe. These certifying bodies have ethical standards, prerequisites, and exams.
There are several companies that offer mail order Neurofeedback Degrees if you pay the price. In order to minimize the chances of side effects, have a clinician with experience.
What are brainwaves?
Some brain waves occur at faster frequencies, or wave speeds; some are quite slow. The classic names of these EEG bands are delta, theta, alpha, and beta and are identified according to their frequency, which is measured in terms of repetitions per second, also called cycles per second (cps) or Hertz (Hz).
What happens once my sessions are complete?
The review will go over all of the brain maps taken during the training to compare where the differences from the client’s brain at the beginning of training to where it is post-training.
The doctor and the client will then consult on whether or not more neurofeedback would be beneficial for the client.
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