An important part of finding a neurofeedback professional is finding someone who will take the time to explain to you the benefits of neurofeedback (also called EEG Biofeedback or brain training), how it works and what to expect during your first session.
Neurofeedback uses technology to read brain waves and helps the brain learn to regulate itself. It is a non-invasive, pain-free, and drug-free treatment for a wide range of mental and emotional problems.
Electrical impulses are produced in the brain as the cells communicate with one another. During your first neurofeedback session we will run an assessment to understand what the patterns of brainwaves you are experiencing and identify which areas of your brain are overactive or underactive.
This is done by attaching 19 sensors to your scalp through wearing something that looks like a swimmers cap. A gel (which feels nice and cool) is used to help the sensors better read your brainwaves (you will most likely want to wash your hair after each session). There is no pain or discomfort involved in the assessment.
You will then sit in front of a computer monitor and be guided through a few simple activities while the equipment reads the electrical impulses in your brain. The equipment does not change your brainwaves, it only reads what it happening inside.
The snapshot of your brain is called a QEEG or Quantitative Electroencephalograph and, along with an online questionaire, gives our professionals insight into what your brain is doing and the problems you are experiencing.
During your next session we will review the results with you and begin a training program to help “calm down” and “wake up” other parts of the brain through the neurofeedback training. These sessions generally happen on a weekly basis.