Living Through Loss Counselling Society of BC

Services - Neurofeedback Therapy

What is Neurofeedback?

Sometimes known as "brain wave biofeedback", the term neurofeedback means literally that: it is a means by which a client is provided with feedback about how his/her brain is functioning neurologically. Neurofeedback utilizes EEG (electro-encephalograph) technology to both assess and address imbalances in the brain.

Using EEG equipment, the clinician "listens" to the electrical brain wave activity across the brain and helps to identify where the brain may be over- or under-investing its energy (assessment).

Following assessment, a treatment program is then applied which provides the client with information (feedback) which encourages the brain to correct the issues that may be contributing to behavioural or lifestyle difficulties.

What is Neurofeedback for?

Neurofeedback has been applied to just about any human issue that is, in part, related to an over-active, under-active, or unstable neurological system (brain). Common issues to which neurofeedback is applied include:

Attention Deficit & Hyperactivity Disorder	Depression
Addiction	Chronic Anxiety
Sleep Disorder	Panic Disorder
Learning Disability	Autism
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome	Impulse Control Issues
Rage	Migraine headaches
Etc.

How Is It Done?

The process is entirely painless. The client is seated comfortably and attached to 6 wire sensors; three on each side of his/her head and ears. The sensors are held onto the ear and scalp by a gel-like paste. The sensors carry the EEG information from the brain to the computer. There are no needles or intrusive procedures.

In front of the client is a computer screen, which will display images and project sound/music. It is often described as resembling an interactive computer game. The clinician has an additional computer screen, which displays the EEG output.

The client's task is simply: to be aware of the visual and musical feedback and work with the clinician to influence the feedback. It is simply a process of allowing the brain to become aware of its behaviour and to allow the brain to re-train itself with the help of feedback into its responses and habits.

How Long Does It Take?

A single neurofeedback session typically takes about 1 hour. It is recommended that sessions take place twice per week for the first 4 - 6 weeks. Generally, some notable improvement is notable within the first 8 sessions.

Can Neurofeedback Do Harm?

To date, the only documented side effect of neurofeedback is occasional fatigue. Neurofeedback tends to be quite calming for most clients and occasionally that is experienced as fatigue directly following a session.