NeuroFeedback
Neurofeedback is a system for assessing the state of the brain (using the Mini-Q equipment - please see below) and prescribing procedures to regulate the functioning of the brain towards an optimal regulatory state of wellbeing; namely a normal healthy person. Examples of sub-optimal state of wellbeing could be manifested in insommia, low self-esteem, mental depression and cognitive deficits (developmental delays, autism, dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, brain injury, epileptic fits, strokes, Parkinson's Disease, dementia and other learning disabilities).
The treatment is a process in which we train the brain to self regulate and improve its ability to coordinate and control all bodily functions.
Biofeedback machines supply doctors and health professionals with feedback from the body. They range from simple devices such as thermometers (measuring the body’s heat) and blood pressure monitors (which measure the diastolic and systolic readings) to sophisticated machines that measure brain waves, such as EEG machines.
Our Neurofeedback machines provide us with feedback on various brain waves as they happen in the brain. Examples of these brain waves are the delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma waves. Each of these brain waves are specifically predominant in each state of human awareness (sleeping, dreaming, meditating, wide awake). Sometimes these brain waves are dominant in a disportionate manner, thereby causing the person to exhibit symptoms not appropriate for the current situation, their age group, or general behaviour. Such symptoms may take on medical terms such as autism, ADD, ADHD, learning disabilities, etc.
With our machines, we are able to map the brain wave activities as they happen in real time. With such data, we can know which brain waves are dominant for their specific state of mind. We can then intervene and correct the disproportionate sub-optimal areas in the brain through specific placment of electodes which then train the brain to generate the appropriate brainwaves through a system of rewards and training.
[ These electrodes do not carry any electrical charge into the brain; they only collect signals from the brain to the neurofeedback machine. Thus neurofeedback is a totally non-invasive procedure. ]
After several neurofeedback sessions and with the accumulation of rewards, there will be a reduction of symptoms in the client. This will be the beginning of the journey towards normal functioning of the brain. As to how far or how the fast before a reduction of symptoms can be seen, it would depend on the severity of the condition and the number of sessions taken.
How does neurofeedback work?
Electrodes or sensors are placed on the head. The electrodes pick up the brainwave activity and relay this to the special neurofeedback device and the readout is seen on the computer screen. The therapist sets certain training criteria in the computer software and if the brain fulfils these criteria, then the brain gets rewarded in the form of auditory and/or visual cues. There is no electrical input to the brain at all so neurofeedback is a totally non-invasive procedure. Once the brain gets the reward, there is a great tendency for the brain to self regulate and work towards optimal functioning.
Neurofeedback is exercising of the brain. As the brain continues to get the reward, neural networks on the area where the electrodes are placed are activated. With repeated neurofeedback sessions, these newly formed neural networks become more permanent and the dysfunctional symptoms of the client undertaking the training are steadily being reduced.
What conditions can it help?
Anxiety-depression spectrum
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)
Auditory and visual processing
Brain injury and strokes
Depression
Distractibility
Dyslexia
Expressive Speech
Hyperactivity (ADHD)
Impulsivity
Lack of focus and concentration
Language comprehension
Learning Disabilities
Mathematical Disabilities
Obsessive Compulsive Disorders
Peak Performance
Poor Academic Performance
Poor Memory
Reading Difficulties
Sleep Disorder
Stress Management
Mini-Q Brain Map Assessment
The Mini-Q is a simple and quick EEG assessment tool which provides the neurotherapist with snapshots of the client’s brain activity. It is a great tool to collect before and after training in order to assess training effects of neurofeedback. The Mini-Q automatically controls, times and pauses all data-taking, and then organizes all data for display, graphing and excel report. All records are labeled with proper electrode identifiers.
| 
