Neurofeedback is simply exercise for the brain! We help the brain to work more effectively by strengthening its ability to shift and change accurately, and, therefore, it functions with more stability. Through careful assessment, the clinician defines which brain wave frequencies (the speed the brainwave is cycling at) need to be reinforced and trains the brain to make those improvements - simply by watching a movie that plays on the computer screen. The fun part is that your brain is making the movie play! When your brainwaves are doing what we want them to do (i.e., making more of some waves and less of others) the movie plays. When your brainwaves are not performing the way we want them to, the movie stops. The brain learns, very quickly, what it needs to do to make the movie play and therefore, exercises and strengthens it's ability to function as you watch your favorite movie on DVD.

What can Neurofeedback help?
There are a wide variety of issues that Neurofeedback can help. Difficulties commonly seen at our clinic include rage and anger issues, impulsiveness, mood swings, general anxiety and worry, sleep problems, migraines, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, ADHD/ADD, Asperger's Disorder, Sensory Processing Disorders, Tourette's Syndrome and academic problem areas such as reading fluency and math difficulties.

Are the improvements temporary or permanent?
For many people, the changes are permanant. For some people, however, "booster sessions" are needed to get the brain back on track. For example, sometimes after a growth spurt a child may need a "re-boot" for the brain's hard drive. Certain disorders such as Bipolar Disorder, Tourette's Syndrome or OCD are more likely to need follow-up "booster sessions."

Who can benefit from Neurofeedback?
There are no age limitations with Neurofeedback. We work with individuals of all ages from toddlers, children, and adolescents to adults.

How is Neurofeedback done?
Sensors (or electrodes) are placed on the scalp with a washable EEG paste. These sensors measure your brainwaves and send the information to the computer. The computer then plays or stops the movie you are watching based on the brainwaves going through their exercise. Nothing is done to the brain; the electrodes simply act as a scale, measuring the brainwaves that are present. It is painless, and its enjoyable. Even a child or a teen who is reluctant to go to a psychologist to work on their issues tends to not object to watching their favorite movie!

What happens if Neurofeedback clients are taking medications?
With successful Neurofeedback training, medications targeting brain function may no longer be needed, or they may be needed at lower doses as the brain is able to function more effectively on it's own. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding Neurofeedback and medications.

If Neurofeedback can do so much, why haven't I heard about it before?
Neurofeedback is not yet taught in most medical schools or psychology graduate programs. Many professionals are therefore unaware of the power of this technique. The field is growing rapidly and as it does more professionals will be informed and educated in Neurofeedback.