I have added a very exciting option into my therapy practice, NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback.

What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG Biofeedback, is a scientifically-based, non-invasive, drug-free form of brain training that allows the brain to learn self-regulation skills.

How Does it Work?

NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback sensors are placed on the head; the sensors pick up the brain activity signals and transfers this information to the computer. When the software detects an inconsistency, abrupt change, or shift in your brain activity pattern, it sends an audible signal that encourages the brain to “reset” and self-correct. Automatically adjusting itself microsecond to microsecond, in response to a client’s unique brain activity, more efficient neural pathways are established within the whole brain. Through this process, the nervous system is recalibrated. Over time your brain naturally improves in its ability to function fluidly, enhancing all areas of your life. As a result depression, anxiety, and reactivity are decreased, sleep is enhanced, and the brain is free to operate in a more relaxed manner in a range of learning environments. Brains that have sustained injuries or traumas can grow new neural pathways around damaged areas, to support healing and enhance performance.

The result of using the NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback program over time is a more resilient brain with greater integration between its many regions. Instead of reactivating from the primitive, survival parts of the brain, neural pathways connecting to the prefrontal cortex are enhanced, allowing choice and positive responses. A well-integrated brain, in which all areas are communicating effectively, develops healthy patterns and pathways so that we may resiliently flow with the ups and downs of life.

Who should use Neurofeedback?

Clients that could really benefit from this brain training include children and adults who are looking for an alternative to medications, or struggle with medication side effects, or need further enhancement or augmentation to their medications. Those who have tried traditional counselling and psychotherapy and it doesn’t work for them or don’t want to consider talk therapy could use Neurofeedback to decrease their negative symptoms without having to do anything more than sit in a comfortable chair for 45 minutes and listen to music or watch a relaxing video. Those struggling with depression for whom there is no energy for behaviour activation can really benefit and find energy and joy of life again. It calms and quiets those struggling with high anxiety and OCD symptoms. For clients struggling with trauma symptoms, this is an excellent way to stabilize and settle down their defensive action systems quickly so that trauma processing treatment (like EMDR) can happen more quickly and effectively as well as decreasing and eliminating flashbacks and nightmares. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, MD, leading trauma expert in North America reports that he knows of no other treatment that stabilizes nervous systems more effectively than Neurofeedback. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recognized Neurofeedback as a treatment for ADD/ADHD as effective as medications.

Overall, Neurofeedback training provides a multitude of benefits for the brain and body, including: improved sleep, heightened mental clarity and enhanced cognitive performance. Further conditions include:

1. PHYSICAL, COGNITIVE AND EMOTIONAL CHALLENGES.
Adults, as well as children, have used NeurOptimal® neurofeedback to address the negative effects arising from depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Alzheimer’s, autism, sleep disorders, post concussion and other brain injury difficulties, and cognitive deficits and fogginess post chemotherapy. The FDA has even approved neurofeedback as effective for stress reduction. The American Pediatric Academy has endorsed neurofeedback as a “Level 1/Best Support” treatment for children with ADHD. Furthermore, the APA has equated neurofeedback with medication in terms of efficacy for resolving ADHD.

2. GENERAL WELLNESS
NeurOptimal® neurofeedback encourages an overall positive mental outlook and a deeper understanding of the mind/body connection. For those looking to enhance their daily health and wellness, neurofeedback training can be an excellent supplement to a healthy diet and exercise routine.

3. BRAIN FITNESS/AGE REMEDIATION:
Along with healthy lifestyle choices, NeurOptimal® neurofeedback can be a powerful tool to mediate cognitive decline that naturally occurs as we age. Just as physical exercise benefits the body, NeurOptimal® keeps the brain fit and resilient. Neurofeedback can help improve memory, recall and increase overall cognitive dexterity in older individuals.

4. PEAK PHYSICAL/MENTAL PERFORMANCE:
A growing number of Olympic and professional athletes now use neurofeedback to provide that critical mental edge which often results in gold medals and championships. When competitors are separated by 100ths of a second, the improved mental focus and physical performance neurofeedback provides can mean the difference between winning and losing. But you don’t have to be a pro athlete to enjoy the benefits of neurofeedback. Looking to improve your golf game? Want to be a better pitcher for your company softball team? NeurOptimal® can help.

5. IMPROVED ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
Because neurofeedback training enhances concentration and mental focus, students use NeurOptimal® as a critical tool to improve their performance in school. Unlike so-called ”smart drugs” or neuro enhancing pharmaceuticals, NeurOptimal® is 100% drug-free and has no known side effects (apart from improved sleep!).

Since initiating the treatment in my practice since late fall 2017, clients have experienced dramatic shifts that they are happy to share. One client, who was acutely suicidal, reports that after 10 treatments and 2 months of Neurofeedback he feels fantastic, has no suicidal feelings, and has enough energy to want to play for Team Canada! Another client who struggles with ADHD (and never took medications), PTSD, anxiety and depression reported that after 6 sessions felt joy again for the first time in years and was able to sit for the first time and really follow a conversation with her girlfriend and it calmed down her panic attacks. Another client who had developed fears of driving was able to drive again without worry after 4 sessions. And, another client who struggles with post brain injury and PTSD is reporting much improved mental cognition, greater clarity and calmness, more energy and joy after only 3 sessions. I continue to be amazed about NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback and its ability to reduce suffering at an efficient rate and without negative side effects.

If you would like to look at further information and research, please review www.NeurOptimal.com.

Steve Milligan, a NeurOptimal Certified Advanced Trainer, is now part of my team and would also be happy to talk further with you about NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback and answer any questions you may have at 705 768-9747 or email stevemilligan@cogeco.ca

Now offering Neurofeedback!