Asheville Neurofeedback

1) How do children and adults benefit from neurofeedback training?

This training procedure has been shown to increase the ability to pay attention, focus, concentrate, sleep more soundly and relax; depending on the individual's need. Studies have demonstrated that students with Attention Deficit Disorder who have completed this training have also shown significant improvements in classroom performance. Dr. Joel Lubar, the originator of these training procedures, reported that 80% of the first 250 children they worked with demonstrated grade point average improvements of approximately 1.5 levels. I.Q. scores on the WISC also show significant improvement.

2) Is Neurofeedback safe?

EEG Neurofeedback training only presents information to the brain about how it is performing. The decision to increase or decrease a performance frequency is made solely by the brain. EEG Neurofeedback training is increasing in popularity because it is safe, drug free, and the results are remarkable.

3) Is treatment successful and permanent?

When the brain wave frequencies move into the desired frequency pattern, symptoms may be greatly decreased or entirely eliminated. Treatment is then complete, and the results are considered permanent for most, but there is an occasional client who may need more sessions to maintain the results. It is not possible to predict how successful training may be for every individual, but a reasonable expectation of results can usually be assessed early in the course of training.

4) What does the client do during the training session?

A trainer works individually with each client. There are a variety of EEG feedback programs available for use by a trained clincian. With each of them the individual sits in front of a computer screen and receives visual and audio feedback. This feedback gives positive reinforcement, and trains the client to: relax; increase alertness; focus; concentrate; stop fidgeting; or decrease an impulsive approach to tasks. During each training session the client has opportunities for combined visual and auditory feedback. Other periods of time during the training sessions can be combined with academic tasks such as reading, mathematics and other subjects. These sections of the training session may include listening, reading and written work.

5) Are there research findings?

YES, numerous studies have shown that distinctly identifiable EEG differences are present in children with learning disabilities and attention deficits with and without hyperactivity. EEG feedback training can be used to improve these problems. In addition, there are basic research findings which indicate decreased brain activity in the frontal lobe (particularly on the left) in persons who exhibit ADD symptoms when they are given an intellectual challenge. These findings include: (i) decreased glucose metabolism (PET scan) as reported in The New England Journal of Medicine, (ii) decreased blood flow (SPECT scan), (iii) excessive Theta brain wave activity (EEG). Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, learning approach that directly influences activation of the brain by rewarding decreased production of slower waves (Theta) and increased production of fast wave activity. This pattern is associated with brain activation and positive response to intellectual tasks and the person is able to see their brainwaves on a computer screen. There are many different feedback screens which can be selected. Young children may select puzzles and mazes while adults often prefer gauges and displays that give quantitative data. The skill must be practiced until it becomes automatic (unconscious). In addition to acquiring self regulation of brain waves, the students may also need to receive instruction in metacognitive strategies - thinking processes involved in learning how to learn and remember. Older students may need to be taught time management and study skills. These skills are learned more rapidly and thoroughly when they are taught in combination with neurofeedback.

6) Do neurofeedback and medications do the same thing?

No. Medications have an advantage in that they act immediately. They can be very useful and helpful with some children to control disruptive behaviors which might otherwise cause negative reactions and a lowering of their self esteem. Medications, however, act only while they are at sufficient dosage level in the blood stream. Dr. Swanson's team at the University of California, Irvine, summarized their usefulness "(1) a short term benefit for the management of behavioral symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity; and (2) a lack of demonstrated long-term effects on learning, achievement, or social adjustment". Neurofeedback takes much longer to produce change (2 to 6 months) but appears to give long term benefits in all the key areas of attention span, impulse control, academic achievement and social adjustment.


7) Can adults benefit?

Yes. Symptoms do not necessarily go away as a person gets older and adults benefit from neurofeedback training to the same extent as children. They can achieve long term improvement in attention span, impulse control, reading, listening skills, and time management. In addition, many adults also want assistance with stress and tension. For decreasing tension, neurofeedback of brain waves can be combined with biofeedback.

8) What are the advantages of EEG training?

With EEG training the client is empowered to take control of both attention and concentration. There are none of the side effects associated with medications. Training helps attention to be maintained when the person chooses; for example, during the evening study hours when medications, if used, may interfere with sleep. Training also may also be a step towards not requiring medications in order to concentrate on one's work in future years.

9) How long does training take?

Training takes approximately 20-60 sessions depending upon the severity of the disorder. Frequency of training is usually twice per week for the first 10 weeks and usually tapers to once a week until treatment is finished. Each training session lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Condensed schedules are available, especially during the summer.

10) How soon will progress be noticed?

Noticing progress depends on the flexibility of the individual brain as well as the clients ability to self report. Some clients feel immediate results and some can take anywhere from ten to twenty training sessions before any changes are noted. Changes in behavior in the classroom can usually be noticed after 2-4 months of training.

11) How long do the results of training last?

Long term follow-up with adults who, as children, received EEG feedback training for ADD/ADHD, indicates that the improvement appears to be permanent in most cases. However, there are cases where a client will need to come back in for "booster" sessions.

12) Are standardized tests used to help evaluate progress?

Yes. Standardized intelligence and academic testing can be done before a child begins training and after training has been completed. Standardized computerized continuous performance tests can also be used.

13) Is training covered by insurance?

Some medical insurance plans will cover the cost of biofeedback sessions for various conditions. Some may require co-payments or stipulate annual caps. Others may require a prescription from a physician or psychologist within the plan before approving coverage. Contact your insurance provider to determine the specific requirements and/or limitations of your plan. Some health conditions are severe, and in some cases, working in conjunction with your physician is necessary.

14) Can neurofeedback be combined with other approaches?

Yes, absolutely. Multi-modal approaches are recommended for children with ADD. Neurofeedback may improve your child's response to educational interventions, behavior management strategies, and individual and family therapies. Good nutrition should always be practiced and some children have special dietary needs and sensitivities. Neurofeedback can be combined with medication. Children who are on medication when they begin neurofeedback training continue with their dosage until their parents, in consultation with their physician, determine that the dosage can be reduced as training takes effect.