Neurofeedback —”Connection” Therapy

 

A powerful modality some of our counselors incorporate into the psychotherapy process is a technique called neurofeedback.  The best definition of neurofeedback comes from two of its early pioneers, Susan and Siegfried Othmer: "Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently. We observe the brain in action from moment to moment. We show that information back to the person. And we reward the brain for changing its own activity to more appropriate patterns. This is a gradual learning process. It applies to any aspect of brain function that we can measure. Neurofeedback is also called EEG Biofeedback, because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram, or EEG. Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly.” Self-regulation is vital to good brain function. Self-regulation training enables the Central Nervous System to operate at its peak performance.

 

In simple terms, neurofeedback is a kind of conversation that takes place between a person and a computer, facilitated by the therapist. The individual receives video/audio/tactile feedback about his/her brain states—the frequency of these rewards are adjusted by the therapist in real time until the individual achieves his/her highest level of relaxation and engagement.  Like learning a language, these conversations take place over time until it is eventually mastered.  Adding neurofeedback as a modality to therapy is suggested for the following:

 

• ADD/ADHD (testing available)

• Asperger's Disorder

• Autism

• Bipolar

• Conduct Disorder

• Epilepsy

• Migraines/Stroke/TBI

 

Client Improvement at Trinity Counseling

 

The Burns Depression Checklist (BDC) (click here to take this test).  The BDC is a rating scale for depression copyrighted by David D. Burns.  It consists of 25 questions assessing the depression level of the client.  The scores are broken down into the following categories;

 

Depression/Anxiety        Score

No Depression                   0-5

Normal but unhappy       6-10

Mild depression               11-25

Moderate depression      26-50

Severe depression            51-75

Extreme depression        76-100

 

Here is a small sampling of Trinity's

clients’ BDC scores before &

during/after neurofeedback

treatment.

 

 

Testimonials

 

“My life has changed so much since starting therapy and neurofeedback at Trinity. When I think about who I was just a year ago, it’s hard to believe such change is even possible. I am happy, recently married, going back to church. I am overall more engaged and present in my life and the thriving life of my family. It’s exciting to see where I will be in another year! I’m excited about the future now and no longer fearful. “

 

“This is for anyone that has lost hope in getting help with healing emotionally, physically or has struggled with ADD, ADHD and even PTSD!  I have had the opportunity and blessing to go through the program for several almost insurmountable challenges, only to come out on the other side with great appreciation for Bio-Feedback and the healing practitioners that are truly gifted, shepherding and helping me get better! Thank you Gretchen and Gabe and Trinity Counseling.”