What happens in a session?
We start the session with getting updated of the progress toward the training goals that have been set.One or two sensors are placed on the scalp and ears. There is no breaking of the skin or any discomfort.
The sensors are like little stethoscopes which “listen in” and feed the brainwaves into an amplifier (an Electroencephalogram machine) that is linked to a computer. The brainwaves are converted into video and audio displays. By watching the screen and listening to tones, the individual is given immediate feedback that tells whether his/her brain is making faster or slower brainwaves moment to moment.
The feedback displays may be simple games (e.g. pacman, or keep one rocket ship ahead of the other). DVD feedback may also be used with children and adolescence to enhance motivation. The feedback monitor would show a DVD playing with blinds covering the screen. When the desired brainwave patterns are made the DVD is seen clearly and when the inefficient brainwave patterns are made the blinds begin to close.
By practicing controlling the displays, individuals learn to produce brainwaves that are normally present when they are calm, still and well focused. ADHD individuals can learn what it feels like when relaxed and concentrating. Anxious individuals can learn what it feels like when their brain is calm.
We typically schedule an hour for traditional neurofeedback training sessions, with about 20-30 minutes of actual training, dependent upon the individual’s needs.
Lens (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a different process. The same type of sensors are used (one on each ear and one on the scalp), but this training is done with eyes closed. The machine reads the EEG and provides a feedback sgnal that is often very helpful. Approximately one to seven locations on the scalp are briefly trained, taking about fifteen minutes for the process.