ADHD (ADD) Assessment and Neurofeedback Training..

ADHD (ADD) Assessment and Neurofeedback Training

Neurofeedback training for ADHD is customized to each individual. In order to obtain best possible results, we gather much information prior to starting treatment. Thus, we usually will ask you to:
1. Participate in an in-depth interview addressing ADHD-related
symptoms.
2. Complete a behavior rating scale. You and/or your child’s teacher(s)
also may be asked to complete such scales.
3.Take a computerized continuous performance test (the IVA)
to determine ability to sustain attention.
4. Have a quantitative EEG (QEEG) evaluation done to determine
whether there is specific abnormal brain electrical activity (EEG)
which may be related to the ADHD symptoms.

Using the information obtained from this assessment, we are able to decide whether you are likely to benefit from neurofeedback treatment, and, if so, what specific abnormal brain wave activity (EEG) should be targeted for change.

HOW DOES NEUROFEEDBACK WORK ?

Prior to each training session, sensors are applied to certain scalp sites so that the EEG waves coming from those sites can be monitored by you and your neurotherapist. This is something like monitoring heart activity by using a stethoscope. No electricity is put into your brain.

Software in our computer monitors the specific EEG activity we are interested in changing, and provides real-time visual and auditory feedback to you regarding whether or not you are making the desired changes. This feedback may be in the form of changes in a score seen on the computer monitor, changes in pitch and/or volume of a tone, or progress in a video game. For example, children in training may play a computer game using their brain waves. The equipment is programmed so that they can successfully play the game only when training is going well. When they are not meeting the conditions leading to desired changes in their EEG, they do not make progress with the game.

The basic concept underlying neurofeedback is simple, and well established in the field of psychology. It is simply a form of operant conditioning. That is, when one’s behavior meets certain conditions, positive reinforcement is given, and when those conditions are not met, such reinforcement is withheld. In the case of neurofeedback, the reinforcement is receiving feedback in the form of score improvements, making progress with a video game, etc.

Much as learning to ride a bike trains areas of the brain involved in balance, maintaining EEG patterns present when one is alert and focused can train brain areas and systems involved in sustained attention. Training is usually done over a series of five to fifty sessions, depending on the disorder and the individual. Sessions generally are of thirty to forty minutes duration. The average number of sessions for ADHD treatment is forty. It is important that training is scheduled at least twice per week. Some may wish to train every day or for more than one session on certain days. Such “massed” training can hasten change for some persons.

There are no known dangerous side effects resulting from neurofeedback training. Rarely, an individual will have a slight headache after training. More often, however, persons who begin a session with a headache will have symptom relief after the session.

Neurofeedback training often reduces, and sometimes eliminates, need for ADHD medications. However, it is recommended that your physician be aware of this training, and communicate with you concerning possible adjustments of dosage as the training progresses.