What is the relationship between brainwaves and behavior?

Brainwaves and behavior are inseparable.  The brain constantly produces a complex array of brainwaves, but the balance changes according to what we’re doing and feeling.  The dominant frequency varies depending on your state of consciousness (awake, anxious, angry, calm, relaxed) as well as on individual differences.  Research has identified characteristic brainwave patterns that are associated with various conditions. EEG Feedback training can help you modify your brainwave patterns in a desired direction.  If you are highly anxious, there is often a spike in your high frequency beta waves; this can also occur when you tense your muscles.  EEG Feedback training allows you to decrease high beta activity, so you can function more calmly and effectively.  People with ADHD typically show increased theta activity as well as much lower beta activity.  If you have ADHD, EEG Feedback can help you learn to decrease theta while increasing beta, thus improving your focus, attention, and memory.

Is there any proof that EEG Feedback works?

A great deal of scientific research and many controlled studies have demonstrated the benefits of EEG Feedback in ADHD, sleep disorders, seizures, and numerous other conditions.  The research for ADHD has been particularly extensive, showing results comparable to treatment with medication.  The International Society for Neurofeedback & Research (ISNR) is a professional organization promoting EEG Feedback research and clinical practice.  Their website offers a wealth of information.

How many sessions will I (my child) need?

Our standard program of 30 sessions has been designed so that by the 30th session most participants will see results.  Individual circumstances and individual brains vary so greatly, though, that it’s impossible to predict at the outset the number of sessions that will be needed.  There seems to be a relationship between the severity of the symptoms and the length of training required.

How soon will I see changes?

You will probably notice progress toward your goals within a few sessions.  With continued training, these changes will expand to new areas of functioning and become more apparent and more lasting.  We will set goals together, and monitor your progress toward them during your treatment.

If EEG Feedback works so well, why haven’t I heard of it before?

Scientific understanding of the way the brain works is changing rapidly.  Brainwave patterns were once thought to be fixed and unchangeable and many medical professionals were trained in that belief.  Recent research has made it abundantly clear that the brain changes with input (“brain plasticity”), even in adults.

How long will the changes last?

The effects of neurofeedback are cumulative.  After the first few sessions, the improvements you experience may not be as apparent after a day or two.  After more training, the changes will last longer. Once the training is complete and your brain has integrated enhanced self-regulation, most individuals experience lasting improvement.