WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK?

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG (electroencephalogram), is a therapeutic, non-invasive method of direct brain function training. It is a type of biofeedback that teaches self-control of brain functions by measuring brain waves and providing a feedback signal from a computer-based program. The program uses sound or visual signals (operant conditioning) to reorganize or retrain these brain signals. By responding to this process, students learn to self-regulate and improve their brain function and to alleviate symptoms of various neurological and mental health disorders. 

Neurofeedback has been studied in many applications and found to be effective in dysregulations such as anxiety, depression, the autism spectrum, ADHD, trauma, processing speed, and other mental health concerns. 

The goal of Neurofeedback is to transform an abnormal, unhealthy brainwave pattern into a normal, healthy, organized pattern to promote positive and efficient changes in the brain. 

HOW IS NEUROFEEDBACK PERFORMED? 

During a Neurofeedback session, electrodes are placed on the student’s scalp, targeting areas where brainwave activity needs regulation. These sensors only read the electrical signals produced by the brain and transmit them to a computer.  They do not transmit any type of signal or electrical current to the brain.  

The treatment plan will have the student watch images on a screen (movie or TV show) while the computer-based system will detect and record the brainwave frequencies that are present or not present.  The student gets to see a visual representation of the ebb and flow of their brainwave patterns in real time as the brain responds to the images either by having the screen become brighter (favorable brainwave patterns) or dims (less harmonious brainwave patterns). 

This instantaneous feedback helps the student’s brain learn, on a subconscious level, what it needs to do to make the screen brighter. Over time, the brain figures out how to develop and sustain the helpful brainwave patterns that keep the screen active — and promote healthier thoughts and behaviors. 

As their brain continues to subconsciously practice efficiency, coordination, and balance, the student’s brainwaves gradually improve, and they get better at controlling their thoughts and actions. Like any new skill, neurofeedback therapy works overtime, through reinforcement and repetition with multiple sessions. 

HOW DOES NEUROFEEDBACK HELP MY SON? 

Our goal is to help your son more readily incorporate and understand the life skills being taught at Live Strong House.  We believe that we can help your son return home with increased resiliency, stability, and permanence. In our search to provide the most effective, evidence-based clinical interventions, Neurofeedback has proved to be one of the best.  Understanding brain development helps us provide the best help for your son’s forming brain. Neurofeedback assists with speed and timing issues, which allows these young men to make better sense of their therapeutic interventions and apply them more readily. 

Neurofeedback is not a stand-alone treatment.  It does not teach skill or encourage values and must be used in conjunction with traditional Best Practice treatment modalities.