How do I start with neurofeedback?
A comprehensive assessment is where neurofeedback therapy begins.
The assessment allows providers to determine whether a client’s brainwave patterns are different from normal.
Based on your brain map results, we then create a restorative plan of care. Each assessment provides the provider with neurofeedback training protocols. These protocols are designed to retrain the brainwave patterns towards normal. The result of rebalancing these brain waves restores health, healing and functionality for lasting results.
Read Your Mind
During neurofeedback sessions, providers are able to detect abnormal brainwave patterns.
Which Frequency Bands & Areas of the Brain to Train
The qEEG assessment allows us to identify brainwave patterns by analyzing the electrical activity in specific areas of the brain. To gather this information, we place a cap fitted with sensors on your head to measure the activity across different frequency bands. The process involves sitting quietly with your eyes closed for about 5 minutes, followed by another 5 minutes with your eyes open. Our equipment then analyzes this data and generates images that pinpoint which areas of your brain may be either too active or underactive. This is called a Brain Map, and it provides a valuable overview of your brain’s activity, guiding us to develop a personalized training plan.
How is Neurofeedback Done?
Sensors are placed on your head and ears to monitor brainwave activity. High-tech equipment amplifies the electrical signals and breaks them into four key frequency bands. Using advanced software, we develop a customized protocol tailored to your specific needs. During the session, the Neurofeedback Clinician observes the raw EEG signal along with the chosen frequency bands. Training can be done with your eyes open or closed. With eyes open, you'll watch a video or play a game, where the video fades in and out based on how well your brain meets the desired patterns.
Why Does Neurofeedback Work?
Neurofeedback leverages the brain’s natural ability to change, known as Neuroplasticity. It works similarly to how we learn new skills, by forming new connections between nerve cells and strengthening important pathways within the brain. The more these pathways are used, the better the brain becomes at performing related tasks. This process is known as "Operant Conditioning" in psychology, where behavior is shaped by its consequences. Neurofeedback creates ideal learning conditions by increasing awareness of healthier brainwave patterns, reinforcing positive changes, and providing plenty of practice during each session.
What Does it Mean – Slow, Idle, Fast?
Slow Processing
When the brain is in a relaxed state or deep sleep, it produces higher levels of delta and theta waves, indicating a slower processing speed. Delta waves, the slowest, operate at 1-4 Hz, while theta waves, slightly faster at 4-7 Hz, are consistently present during deep relaxation.
Idle Processing
In an idle state, the brain generates more alpha waves, which is why alpha is sometimes called the brain’s idle frequency. Alpha waves represent a moderate processing speed (8-12 Hz). When the brain is healthy and well-regulated, it produces more alpha waves on the right side than on the left.
Fast Processing
When the brain is alert, engaged in critical thinking, and focused on external tasks, it produces more beta waves. Beta waves represent the brain’s fastest processing speed (12-30 Hz). In a well-regulated brain, more beta waves are typically produced on the left side than on the right.