Coherent Neurofeedback
What Is Neurofeedback?
Coherent Neurofeedback, also called EEG Biofeedback or Neurotherapy, makes use of the brain’s capacity for change to reshape brain networks. It is a way to directly train the brain to function better. Coherent Neurofeedback is a research-supported treatment to sharpen attention, relieve anxiety, enhance mood, and improve learning, and behavior… without medication.
In a neurofeedback session, the brainwaves are being monitored by four small sensors connected to the scalp with paste, it’s completely non-invasive, there are no needles, it’s painless, and those four sensors are only reading the brainwaves that are coming from the patient. The computer software, then, rewards the patient when they are using efficient neuropathways and producing the right brainwave pattern. If the person is using a movie as the therapy, for example, the reward might be that the movie plays normally when the correct brainwaves are produced, or stop when the wrong patters are produced. This is simple OPERANT CONDITIONING.
You can think of it as the brain watching itself in a mirror. Over time, the brain learns that if it wants to see the movie, it has to produce the correct brainwaves. What is happening is that the brain is literally re-wiring itself, and the new brainwaves that have been created can be used in activities of daily living.
Although the technology is complex, the process is simple, painless, and non-invasive. It is just learning. You learn to alter your brain activity the same way you learn every other skill. You learn through feedback and practice. What is new in neurofeedback is that you are guided by a form of feedback that was previously not available to you. With neurofeedback, you get instantaneous information or feedback about changes in your brain’s electrical activity. Every half second, your brain activity is compared to your target or goal for change. You get a signal and “reward” when you meet the goal. No signal or reward when you do not. What's amazing is that this training can be done in both a clinical, office-based setting, or in the comfort of your own home! Please contact us for details of how home training works. Please note, brain mapping and biofeedback is not currently available; please see the Virtual Tutoring tab.