About Neurofeedback

What is neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback involves measuring the electrical activity of the brain at the scalp surface and sending it to a computer for processing. This information is then 'fed back' to the trainee via a computer monitor in effort to bring it under greater voluntary control. The specific method of neurofeedback that I teach is called EEG biofeedback. It is called EEG biofeedback because with each training session a full EEG is recorded from 19 different electrodes. This state-of-the-art method allows more precise training from 19 sites (versus 1-4 with older methods) and permits use of an advanced software called NeuroGuide with LORETA. NeuroGuide is a software developed by Applied Neuroscience, Inc. (www.appliedneuroscience.com). They are the first to integrate standardized z-score training (a method that makes instantaneous comparisons to a normative reference data base) with LORETA software technology. LORETA stands for low resolution electromagnetic tomography and is software within the software that uses complex mathematics to essentially unscramble the data from the surface EEG and infer what is happening at the source before it reaches the scalp surface. In this manner, training is precisely targeted at deeper structures within the brain that are out of reach by older methods. Key brain areas such as the cingulate gyrus, amygdala, and hippocampus are important to train because they play a large role in emotional regulation. This is what makes LORETA neurofeedback significantly more sophisticated and technologically advanced than other methods.

How does LORETA neurofeedback differ from other approaches?

Dr. Beth Davis, a licensed clinical psychologist, uses the most technologically-advanced method of neurofeedback available that improves outcomes and helps patients reach treatment goals in the shortest amount of time. Many neurofeedback providers cling to outdated methods that often take 60+ sessions. In contrast, NeuroGuide's LORETA neurofeedback provides positive results in approximately 20 sessions. This means significantly faster symptom reduction at a huge cost savings to the patient. Please click the link to read testimonials from other neurofeedback providers and their success with NeuroGuide and LORETA software.

How long does treatment take?

Initial intake appointments are generally 90-minutes and include an initial interview, symptom inventory and a baseline QEEG recording. At the next appointment, results of the QEEG are reviewed and a treatment plan is developed in accordance with the baseline QEEG findings and the patient's treatment goals. At this same appointment, the first LORETA neurofeedback session is conducted. After 10 treatment sessions (30-minute training session per visit), a second QEEG is recorded to assess changes in the brain as a result of the training and to modify the treatment plan if needed. At Session 10 and after the 2nd QEEG, a collaborative determination is made as to whether LORETA neurofeedback is improving the patient's symptoms. If treatment is deemed effective, 10 additional treatment sessions (20 total) are conducted and a third QEEG is recorded to document brain changes that have occurred and to corroborate the patient's self-report of symptom reduction. While many patients begin to notice positive changes at around Session 5, (not including baseline QEEG) most individuals experience positive changes after 20 treatment sessions. While no mental health intervention is 100% effective, LORETA neurofeedback has been shown to be effective in most individuals. Click link to see a list of scientific peer-reviewed articles that have used LORETA. Keep in mind that neurofeedback, even LORETA neurofeedback, is a 'fast' treatment. It takes time and practice to effectively train the brain to produce more and more of the normal types of rhythms in the network under consideration.

What should the consumer know?

The neurofeedback consumer should be aware that many neurofeedback providers will continue to use older methods and charge the same price as LORETA neurofeedback. This is because they 1) are unaware of this newer technology; 2) are reluctant to take on the challenge of learning a more advanced technology; 3) lack financial motivation to update their equipment, take expensive workshops, and seek mentoring; 4) neurofeedback consumers do not demand it because they are unaware it exists. In fact, the majority of behavioral health providers are unaware that this technology exists. This includes psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and other mental health providers. Neurofeedback providers who continue to use outdated technology do NOT lower their fees! They continue to charge the same fees as those of us who insist on using the best software (NeuroGuide with LORETA) to achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. This is a huge cost savings to the patient. Click here to see a sample QEEG report.

Please contact Peak Performance Neurofeedback by email at drbethdavis@peakperformance-neurofeedback.com or by phone at (619) 540-3235.