A deep-dive into Neurofeedback

I have been fortunate enough to come across an incredible mother and practitioner that has been working in the health space since 2006. Colleen began her career in a clinical setting as a Nurse, and later moved into hypnotherapy and psychotherapy after homeschooling her 3 children, in 2019. Colleen is now a provider and facilitator of Neurofeedback in the Community, she is a close friend and inspiration for my work in the homeschooling network. Colleen tried Neurofeedback therapy in 2017 with her son after receiving a diagnosis of Autism. Here is her story.

How did you come across NFB?

My son's diagnosis at 10 years old, we had experienced a lifetime of meltdowns - physical tantrums, daily. We tried detoxing, homeschooling, psychology, speech therapy all with a lot of resistance from him. At the time we knew friends that were General Practitioners and they recommended it. I found a clinic and we began attending for 30 minute sessions twice weekly. My son would watch part of a movie whilst having his session. Initially, we noticed an increase in concentration and he became self-directed with his learning, more curious, less resistant. His sleep improved and he began to show improvement in handling daily stressors with less meltdowns. Results then plateaued  after 20 sessions and we dropped back to fortnightly visits. I did the training for non-linear neurofeedback and bought my first machine in 2019.

What is it?

There are different types of machines and processes pending the need and desired outcomes. The machines I have are designed to support non-linear neurofeedback. The process is non-invasive and no current is transferred into the clients body, it is a passive exercise and meant to feel relaxing for the client. Clients are able to watch a screen, read a book, do their work or sit quietly with their eyes closed if they wish. They can really do anything as long as they are not listening to any other sounds. They must be listening to the audio provided during the session and not exposed to any external noises. The machine is hooked up to prepared skin, normally the scalp and ears, and to special software installed onto the Practitioner's laptop. Sensors from the machine measure electrical activity (brain waves) at 256 times each second. Gentle music begins playing and the machine picks up when the brain wave changes states. If there is a momentary pause in the music this means electrical turbulence has been picked up in the brain wave. The brain must then decide to create a new decision (pathway) or continue. The brain will always choose what is most energy efficient and so will move away from anything that is not comfortable or helpful. This is done in timing we can not control or track.

How long does a session last and is it safe for children?

Yes it is safe, sessions take roughly 30 minutes.

How would you explain NFB as being linked to emotional regulation?

It stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is rest and repair and builds on these pathways between the brain and the body creating stronger neural networks and pathways. With regular use when later experiencing moments of stress, clients may notice the thought processes are still running in the background however there is less charge in the body.

What are some effects of NFB that you have seen in your clients?

Emotional regulation has improved, reduced pain, reduced bed wetting, increase in communication from a non-verbal client. Improved insomnia, memory retention and focus. Results are not a one size fits all, acute states may experience results quicker. I always tell my clients to begin with a minimum of 20 sessions. That's why hiring the machines is a popular choice. Neurofeedback is very helpful on its own but is also used by people along with other therapies including medication, to help support shifts made.

Note - A treatment plan or goals with symptom tracking tools is recommended. Shifts can be subtle so reflection with a journal helps to identify what is alive and moving for you or your family. This is also available from your provider.

Neurofeedback systems are very user-friendly, the expertise is built into the system and support is available throughout the rental period. Colleen hires her machines weekly at a cost of $350 per week however she is happy to provide a discount with mention of this blog. Renting the system is a very cost effective way to experience the benefits of neurofeedback which the whole family can benefit from. Please reach out to Colleen Taylor if you are interested neurofithealth.net@gmail.com.

On a final note, I had always heard of neurofeedback but did not know how it worked and if it was effective, or safe, so I hope this blog has been of benefit to you. Please leave me a comment if you enjoyed learning about neurofeedback today and until next time, Paula xxx