If you are looking for improved emotional control (such as getting past trauma or working through addictions) or increased physiological stability (such as improved ability to focus or reduced headaches), neurofeedback may be an appropriate part of your treatment plan.
What is neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback, also called neurotherapy, is biofeedback that uses a computer program to interpret and assess the brain’s patterns and signals. This non-invasive treatment uses visual and audio signals to teach your brain to recognize and improve its patterns and function.
Neurofeedback addresses brain dysregulation such as addiction, anxiety and depression, attention deficits (ADD/ADHD), behavior disorders, sleep dysregulations, headaches and migraines, PMS and emotional disturbances.
How does neurofeedback work?
In short, your brain waves are translated through a computer program that then gives your brain a way to observe itself and regulate itself to more optimal functioning. Neurofeedback starts with an assessment to determine if and how you can benefit from neurofeedback. This process requires assessing current and historical issues that may impact your brain function. Based on our findings, a plan is discussed for treatment. Sensors are placed on your scalp with an EEG paste to pick up brain waves. The placement of these sensors is specific to each individual. There is no voltage applied to the brain.
The brain waves are then processed by a computer and information gained is mirrored back to the brain through a game or video. The brain recognizes its own patterns in this process. This recognition of patterns allows your brain to train using its own waves to operate the computer programs regardless of physical or cognitive abilities.
Neurofeedback information guide
Mechanics, types and training options
Alliance for Healing offers remote neurofeedback training and in-office neurofeedback training options. To assist you in understanding how each type of training works, please view our neurofeedback comparison and information guide.
What our clients say about neurofeedback
No more meds for ADHD
Neurofeedback has changed our lives! We’ve tried medicine for ADHD and it didn’t work. Neurofeedback works and we didn’t experience negative side effects. He’s a happier kid, he follows direction, and I only have to say things one time. He’s more mild-tempered, his good qualities can shine, and he’s completely off meds. I would recommend it to anyone! – Mom of Levi
Increased focus and tamed emotions
After only 4 sessions of neurofeedback, I noticed a euphoric relaxation. After years of steady angst and anxiety, it was quite a relief. After 10 sessions, I have increased energy, an increase in the desire to experience life, I’m able to focus and concentrate at work, and I feel less depressed. – John
Calming anxiety
After neurofeedback, things that used to bother me don’t bother me as much. Before neurofeedback, it would be hard to breath and I could feel fluttering in my chest, and now that doesn’t happen anymore. I can also control my emotions much better. It used to take me 60-90 minutes to get to sleep and now it takes about a half hour. I used to wake up in the middle of the night and stay awake stressing, and now I sleep through the night! – Jennifer
Lessened suicidal thoughts
The most powerful thing for me in neurofeedback has been understanding why at times I have overwhelming thoughts of wanting to die. The alpha theta experience, “5 Ages of Me,” gave me insight and understanding. I now realize I was exhausted. Neurotherapy allows me to recognize my needs when I am going through those times. They are not so scary. The thoughts are no longer so overwhelming and intrusive. The thoughts no longer make me feel like there is something wrong with me or that I am unfixable. – Emily
No more headaches
When I started neurofeedback, I had two or three terrible headaches every week. I got angry easily and had a lot of mood swings. After the first session, I left and felt happier than I had in a long time; this lasted for a few days. After the second session, my headaches went away and I have only had one headache in the past two months – Sharon
Increased sleep, decreased anxiety
My depression has decreased; it is more of a distant background noise instead of a prominent movie volume. It’s been easier to work through my anxiety as it doesn’t have as sharp of an edge. With my depression lowered, I can be more aware of what I need to do to work through my anxiety. Before neurofeedback, it used to take me 45-60 minutes to fall asleep, and now I can fall asleep within 10-15 minutes. Nightmares have greatly decreased and I no longer wake up crying because of them – Ana
Neurofeedback coverage and plans can vary from insurance carrier and patient. Contact us to find the best solution for your mental health needs and to understand what may be covered by your insurance.