In the realm of modern therapy, an innovative approach known as neurofeedback, a subset of biofeedback, has gained substantial recognition for its remarkable potential in addressing various psychological and neurological issues.
Used in conjunction with traditional talk therapy, neurofeedback leverages technology to provide real-time information about brain activity. It operates on the principle of self-regulation, enabling individuals to gradually gain better control over their mental processes, improving their psychological well-being.
By utilizing specialized sensors and a computer program, neurofeedback can collect and process brainwave data, offering valuable insights into the intricacies of one’s brain functioning.
Neurofeedback functions on both technological and neurological levels, serves a diverse demographic, and can be done in a therapist’s office or at home with guidance. In part because of the flexibility it provides, neurofeedback has been adopted by an increasing number of people as a cutting-edge therapeutic method.
The mechanics of neurofeedback
Neurofeedback operates on a dual feedback loop between a computer program and the user’s brain. Special sensors, worn in a comfortable headset, detect brainwave activity and relay this information to the computer program. The user observes on the computer screen as the program, in turn, alters a game or video in response to the user’s brain activity.
Over time, the brain recognizes these patterns and begins to self-regulate and train itself towards healthier, more balanced brainwave activity.
Dr. Nathan Brown, clinical psychologist, puts this into plain language:
“Let’s say you love guitar. Imagine you have the most amazing guitar, and you are able to put it in the hands of an incredibly talented guitarist. But the catch is, they’re not allowed to tune the guitar. The potential for this moment is sky high, but the reality is disappointing. When the guitar is out of tune, those other things – the guitarist’s and instrument maker’s expertise – is wasted. It’s still not going to sound good.
Neurofeedback is a sort of tuning process for your brain: it’s slight adjustments that make a huge difference to your overall mental health.”
Dr. Nathan Brown
Who benefits from neurofeedback?
The growing body of research about the efficacy of neurofeedback shows both the promise and the limitations of the intervention. Neurofeedback is a promising option for individuals in a wide range of scenarios. This treatment, whether performed in-office or at home, has shown to benefit:
- People who have tried other therapeutic avenues, such as medication or other types of therapy, without experiencing the desired relief
- High-achievers under constant pressure, like performers and athletes such as Kirk Cousins (who we’ll get to later)
- Individuals experiencing some of the following:
- ADHD
- PTSD
- Depression
- Autism Spectrum disorders
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic anxiety
- Migraine
- Epilepsy
- Panic attacks
- Traumatic brain injury
- Developmental delays
When seeking neurofeedback treatment, the length and frequency of training sessions, as well as the duration of treatment, will vary depending on a number of factors, as the treatment plan is custom-created for each individual by an Alliance for Healing therapist.
Neurofeedback at Alliance for Healing
Neurofeedback is often used in conjunction with traditional therapy approaches, which allows our therapists to gain a deeper understanding of their clients’ cognitive processes and tailor treatment plans more effectively. Alliance for Healing has been practicing neurofeedback for several years, providing therapeutic interventions in real-time, in-office.
One of the more exciting developments in neurofeedback is the production of an at-home solution. Alliance for Healing will now be offering Myndlift to our clients, a mobile option with additional convenience and flexibility.
Myndlift, like the in-office neurofeedback treatment, still employs headsets, sensors, computer programs and professional support, but now allows individuals to undergo therapy asynchronously in the comfort of their own home.
Myndlift is an excellent option for people who:
- Have very busy schedules
- Live far away from the clinic
- Have multiple family members seeking treatment (we can organize separate accounts on a shared device)
- Have mobility impairments
Since the individual can control when and where they do their sessions, they are able to do shorter, more frequent sessions; for many clients, that translates to four to six times per week for 20 minutes each. This compares to one to two times per week in-office for 40-50 minute sessions. Most patients begin to feel results within a couple of weeks, with a typical treatment plan continuing anywhere from three to nine months.
The addition of Myndlift to our current offerings is welcome news to therapists and clients alike. The at-home solution will allow for our therapists to assist a greater number of clients, ensuring individuals on our waitlist receive the help they need in a more timely manner.
Myndlift and the growing popularity of neurofeedback
The recent increase in awareness and interest in neurofeedback is largely thanks to a featured section in Netflix’s new series, Quarterback. In season one we learn about Kirk Cousins, quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, and how his use of remote neurofeedback has been a crucial part of achieving peak mental and physical performance.
The growing popularity of Myndlift and neurofeedback is a testament to its efficacy. As the number of people seeking treatment for mental health concerns continues to rise, neurofeedback’s track record of yielding remarkable results without side effects is also gaining. The accessibility, non-invasive nature, and convenience makes it a valuable addition to the therapeutic toolbox.
Neurofeedback and you
Neurofeedback represents a powerful and innovative approach to therapy, offering hope and relief to individuals struggling with various mental health issues. Its integration with traditional therapy, the flexibility of in-office and at-home options, and its ability to empower individuals to take control of their mental health are just a few reasons why neurofeedback is gaining traction.
If you’re curious about enhancing your mental well-being, neurofeedback is worth exploring. For more information, reach out to us at (651) 493-8150 or send us a request through our contact form. We are equipped to provide in-office and telehealth options for remote neurofeedback for our clients. Our therapists are available to talk through your options.
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