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What is Neurofeedback?
By Dr. Denise Fleurant, PsyD, MFT
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is brain exercise, or “training your brain.” It challenges the brain to better function. We observe your brain in action from moment to moment by monitoring your brain waves. We show you your brain activity and we help you change it by rewarding shifts toward a more appropriate and stable brain state. It is a gradual learning process.
Neurofeedback can also be referred to as EEG biofeedback because it is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly. The electroencephalogram (EEG) is another name for the brain wave recordings and biofeedback refers to the process by which you learn to change your brain waves and gain better control over your brain states.
What can Neurofeedback help?
Neurofeedback can be used for a wide variety of things because it is training in self-regulation. Good self regulation is necessary for optimal brain function. Self-regulation training enhances the function of the central nervous system, which improves mental performance, emotional control and physiological stability. Individuals of any age can benefit from Neurofeedback training.
Neurofeedback can be used for psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, suicidal behavior, and post traumatic stress disorder. It can also be used for operational defiant disorder, bedwetting, sleepwalking, and nightmares with children. In addition, it can also be used for physical problems such as headaches, backaches, or substance abuse. Some adults use Neurofeedback for peak performance, for example athletes, artists, and businessmen or women.
How is Neurofeedback done?
Sensors are attached to the scalp with EEG paste which then picks up brain waves. It is painless and does not involve the application of any voltage or current to the brain, so it is entirely non-invasive.
A computer processes the brain waves and extracts certain information from them. We show you the flow of your brain waves and the specific information we obtain from them in the form of a video game. We instruct you how to play the video game using only your brain waves. The specific brain wave frequencies we reward and the sensor location on the scalp are unique to each individual.
Does Neurofeedback really work?
In order for Neurofeedback to be most effective, an average of 30 sessions should be completed. Therefore, using this strategy becomes a commitment by the patient. However, many patients report that they start to see results within the first few sessions and this motivates them to continue with the training. Any brain, regardless of its level of functioning, can be trained to function better. The brain will learn new capabilities and continue to use them. Therefore, this training lasts for a long time after the sessions are completed.
What happens if Neurofeedback clients are taking medications?
With successful Neurofeedback training, medications targeting brain function may no longer be needed, or then may be needed at lower dosages, as the brain takes on the role of regulating itself. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding Neurofeedback and medications.
Why haven’t I heard about Neurofeedback before?
Neurofeedback is a specialized field where professionals take specific classes to learn how to administer Neurofeedback. Many professionals are unaware of the power of this technique. However there are some professionals doing Neurofeedback with patients who are seeing results within the first ten sessions. The process begins with a phone call!
Dr. Denise Fleurant, PsyD, MFT
Dr. Denise A. Fleurant, PsyD, MFT is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist working as a private practitioner in the Newport area. Dr. Fleurant holds an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University, a Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from American Behavioral Studies Institute in California and a Post-Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychopharmacology from the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology.
Dr. Fleurant is a member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She is a certified diplomate of Psychotherapy of the American Psychotherapy Association and Certified Relationship Specialist. Dr. Fleurant is an affiliate member of the Midwest Center for Anxiety and Depression and continually receives advanced training in Marriage and Family issues.
Newport Psychological Services Counseling and Assessment Center has two locations:227 West Main Road in Middletown, RI 02842, and The Polo Center, 680 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown RI 02842. The office is handicapped accessible. Regular office hours are accommodated with evening and weekend appointments as needed.
Please call (401) 864-1493 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
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