Marie Kifun - Jones LCSW Clinical Social Work/Therapist
379 Princeton Hightstown Rd,
Cranbury, NJ, 08512
Tel: 609 275 6479
Copyright M K Jones 2021
Neurofeedback Therapy
Traditional Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback is a biofeedback procedure that focuses on the central nervous system and the brain. It directly trains brain function so that the brain learns to function more efficiently. It is a training process, standard operant conditioning. Specific brain activity in the form of electrical impulses is measured, processed and presented virtually instantaneously to the trainee in a visual and/or auditory format that indicates whether a change in activity is within a designated range. The brain is rewarded when its activity is within the prescribed range and gradually it learns to self-regulate - a necessary part of good brain function as well as good central nervous system function.
Brain disregulation problems that can be addressed with neurofeedback include the anxiety-depression spectrum, attention deficits, behavior disorders, various sleep disorders, headaches and migraines, PMS and emotional disturbances. It is also useful for organic brain conditions such as seizures, the autism spectrum, and cerebral palsy.
In a training session electrodes are placed on the scalp to measure the electrical patterns generated by brainwave activity. The electrical signal is amplified and fed to a computer where software extracts information about certain key brainwave frequencies. Depending on the brain condition that is being addressed frequencies and energy level are set to a designated range in the software as a target for the trainee to reach. This information is presented to the trainee in the form of a video game or movie. The trainee then attempts to change brain activity level so that it falls within the designated range. Staying within range earns a reward and this helps the trainee to be aware of changing brain state and teaches him to control his brain waves In this way the brain eventually learns to self regulate and to function.
LENS Neurofeedback
LENS ( low Energy Neurofeedback System ) is a passive form of treatment unlike traditional neurofeedback. Rather than training the brain the goal of LENS is to help it heal itself and improve functioning. The activity of the brain is measured and fed back in stronger or weaker form and this results in measureable changes in brain waves without any effort from the individual receiving the feedback. This passive form of treatment is ideal for children or individuals with inability or impaired ability to concentrate and focus. Individuals report faster measureable result with this form of Neurofeedback.
Estimated number of sessions will be 12 to 20.
LENS map
The LENS uses a topographic mapping process common to many different neurofeedback systems. It helps clinicians select sensor site sequence and guides treatment.
QEEG
QEEG is an assessment tool used to guide treatment and evaluate a person's brain wave function. The assessment can be used to evaluate a variety of psychological conditions. Research has documented QEEG as an effective tool to aid in the assessment of these conditions.
The procedure involves measuring electrical activity of the brain by placing a cap on the head containing small sensors. The electrical signal is then processed and then compared to a normative database of individuals of similar age. The statistical comparison provides objective information of how the brain should be functioning and whether the brain waves are different from the normal population and if so how they differ. This is then used to guide treatment and formulate a plan of action. The procedure takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete.
Neurofield
Neurofield is another neurofeedback system that introduces energy into the body. It is understood that when the body is stressed through certain lifestyle, toxins in the environment and other factors, the body becomes depleted of energy resulting in inflammation and causing physiological and psychological symptoms.