Neurofeedback Therapy: What Is It?

Neurofeedback, also called EEG biofeedback, is a technique used to help people learn to use their brain more efficiently. Often, those with depression, anxiety, addictions and even ADHD are stuck in an unconsciously conditioned pattern of thinking. The brain is “stuck in a rut.” It continues to use the same pathways to respond to its environment. With neurofeedback, clients can visually see their brain patterns associated with their thinking in real time. Clients then can learn to self-regulate when their thinking becomes overly negative or anxious. New neural pathways are found and used to deal with emotional, mental and physical triggers. With enough practice, clients learn to return to a peaceful state of mind in any situation, without drugs or stimuli. Because Neurofeedback changes the brain through neuroplasticity and learning, lasting cognitive changes occur. Neurofeedback can give people useful tools for a lifetime of lower stress, increased focus and higher performance.

Neurofeedback Therapy: How It works

In a neurofeedback session, the provider will ask you several questions to determine the best way to proceed with treatment.

Sensors are placed on the scalp and ears. There is no discomfort. It is non-invasive. The sensors pick up the electrical pulses emitted by the brain and translate those signals to a visual, moving image on a computer screen. Clients then spend 20-30 minutes watching the patterns on the screen. In the process, the brain learns how it operates and in turn teaches itself how to function more efficiently.

Clients are “painting” an image with their brain. The process is effortless. The brain does all the work. The brain has an incredible ability to learn and auto-correct. With neurofeedback, the brain learns about itself and attunes itself to new ways of coping. Repetitive, negative brain patterns are registered and reconditioned in a positive way.

How can Neurofeedback Help Me?

Neurofeedback has been used for help with:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• ADD/ADHD
• PTSD
• Addiction
• Phobias
• Trauma
• Autism
• Increased Performance
• Meditation
• Brain Injury

How Many Neurofeedback Sessions Are Needed?

Many people notice a difference in their stress levels after the first session. 5-8 sessions are generally needed for treating long-standing thinking patterns. For life-long results, 20-30 sessions are recommended.

How Does Neurofeedback Help with Addiction Treatment?

Neurofeedback has been proven to increase the effectiveness of inpatient drug addiction treatment.

Those Who Participate in Neurofeedback Receive These Benefits:

• 46% Longer stay in a treatment setting
• 60% Less likelihood of leaving Against Medical Advice
• 75% Increase in Long Term Sobriety

What are the results of Neurofeedback Therapy?

• Enhanced Cognitive Ability
• Improved Ability to Relax
• More Focus and Mental Clarity
• Enhanced Concentration and Critical Thinking
• Self-Esteem
• Improved Relationships
• Social Resilience

As we strive to provide the most beneficial care, our team at Ventura Recovery Center makes Neurofeedback available to our clients. Please call us at 800-247-6111 for more information.