How Neurofeedback Can Improve Your Focus
Coping with an inability to concentrate can be difficult—no matter what age you are. Does your child struggle to stay on task when studying (which shows in his/her grade)? Are you looking for a nonpharmacological solution to common mental health problems like ADD or ADHD? Well, you may want to look into neurofeedback. At Focal Points Therapy, it’s actually one of our specialties! Increasingly, it’s being used to combat more learning disorders, mood disorders, and even stress/anxiety. Our programs aim to teach you about control and allow you to focus more on what matters.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Essentially, we approach each patient as an individual. We take your personal history into consideration, but we also meet with you prior to beginning any program. Our equipment allows us to observe your typical brain activity under different conditions. Then, we can use this data to create a map, of sorts, and see developing brain-wave patterns.
Ultimately, the goal of neurofeedback (when targeting attention issues) is to teach our patients to control and produce those patterns linked to focus. With the help of neural sensors and a computer-based “game,” you’ll receive feedback to help you understand how your brave waves work. Then, it’s up to you to direct characters and complete tasks solely with the use of your mind. At the end, you “win” by gaining control over your focus. These skills can then transfer into your day-to-day life whether you’re in class, playing sports, or engaging in social interactions.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
HOW SUCCESSFUL IS IT?
Many who have tried neurofeedback as an alternative therapy for disorders like ADHD/ADD have reported lessened symptoms of impulsivity, aggression, and lack of attention. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has rated this system among the top support treatments for both of these conditions. This means, that while it’s often not the first step for newly diagnosed individuals, it can be used as the primary form. Neurofeedback can also be used in conjunction with medication—rather than as a replacement—to make it more effective! Studies have shown that the positive effects of treatment lasted much longer when medication is combined with this type of therapy. Even weeks after the patient stops taking the prescription, he/she should be able to still feel the effects.
While it doesn’t address all the symptoms of both ADHD/ADD, it can also be used to help people with other mental health issues. Those with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disorders, and other conditions that may result from head injuries can benefit from the lessons in focus that come along with neurofeedback. We’ve found that it makes our patients feel more in control of their lives—and, therefore, more confident! Once you program is complete, you should be able to manage your symptoms more effectively, with only the occasional “tune up.”
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
So, if you’ve tried other treatments before with little to no success, or you’re tired of the common side effects of medication, maybe this is an approach you should consider! One of the biggest advantages of neurofeedback is its flexibility. We can truly integrate it into virtually any treatment plan, which only increases your chances for success! So, whether you’re struggling to focus in school or dealing with a different mental health problem, call us for your personal consultation today!
