“Neurons that fire together wire together”

(a phrase coined in 1949 by Donald Hebb, Neuropsychologist)

Keeping the above phrase in mind, neurons that fire together wire together, the neuronal activity in our brain is much like an orchestra.  Imagine a beautiful piece of music is being conducted, very pleasing to the ear, then someone in the drum section coughs, a pianist’s timing is off, someone in the choir sings off key and the conductor tries to get everyone back on track.  Quite like an orchestra, our environments, our social/emotional interactions, our DNA all play roles in the regulation or dysregulation of our electroencephalogram (EEG, a record of the culmination of neuronal activity in our brain). For example, a person can have an anxiety disorder that is either inherited and/or reinforced by a parent’s display of anxiety.  This may create a dysregulated EEG, reflecting that the person is constantly worried or preoccupied, fighting against those feelings and yearning for relaxation – the dysregulated EEG, in turn, is distracting to the harmony of the whole!  The good news is that neurofeedback training takes advantage of our brains’ plasticity to correct a myriad of dysregulation - by encouraging the dysregulated neurons to fire in a more regulated pattern - neurons that fire together wire together!

Neurofeedback is the process of regulating that dysregulated EEG activity.  The process trains brainwaves (EEG activity) to become more efficient and ultimately, normalized. It is not invasive and no medication is needed. Research has shown that many conditions, including ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, brain injury, attention, concentration, sleep disorders, addiction and depression have been favorably influenced by neurofeedback.

At Wings of Change we use QEEG guided Neurofeedback – prior to neurofeedback a quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG) is gathered through a recording of your EEG to inform the training process. Below is an in depth comparison of the Neurofeedback modalities.

Differences between qEEG Guided Neurofeedback and Traditional Neurofeedback Practitioners

An In-depth Comparison

Introduction

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time monitoring of brain activity to teach self-regulation of brain function. This technique has been employed to address various neurological and psychological conditions. Within neurofeedback methods, two predominant approaches exist: Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG) guided neurofeedback and traditional neurofeedback. Though both aim at optimizing brain function, they differ significantly in their methodologies, applications, and outcomes.

Traditional Neurofeedback

Overview

Traditional neurofeedback, often referred to as EEG biofeedback, involves monitoring brainwave activity through electrodes placed on the scalp and providing feedback to the individual in real-time. The goal is to reinforce desirable brainwave patterns and diminish those associated with dysfunction.

Methods

In traditional neurofeedback, practitioners generally rely on predefined protocols based on specific brainwave frequencies. The training involves rewarding the brain when it produces the desired frequencies, thereby encouraging the brain to adopt healthier patterns over time.

Applications

Traditional neurofeedback has been widely used to treat conditions such as:

·         Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

·         Anxiety

·         Depression

·         Sleep disorders

·         Migraines

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

·         Non-invasive and drug-free alternative

·         Widely available and accessible

Limitations:

·         Relies heavily on the practitioner’s experience and intuition

·         May not address individual-specific brain dysfunctions

·         Protocols are often generalized rather than personalized

qEEG Guided Neurofeedback

Overview

Quantitative EEG (qEEG) guided neurofeedback involves a more sophisticated and data-driven approach. It utilizes a detailed brain map, created through qEEG, which measures and analyzes electrical activity across various brain regions. This map provides a comprehensive overview of the brain's functional state.

Methods

The process begins with a qEEG assessment, where the brain's electrical activity is recorded and analyzed using advanced algorithms. This assessment identifies specific abnormalities and deviations from normative brain function. Based on the brain map, a personalized neurofeedback protocol is developed, targeting the precise areas of dysfunction.

Applications

qEEG guided neurofeedback is utilized for:

·         ADHD

·         Anxiety

·         Depression

·         Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

·         Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

·         Learning disabilities

·         Performance enhancement in sports and academics

Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

·         Highly personalized and data-driven

·         Objective assessment of brain function

·         Ability to pinpoint and address specific areas of dysfunction

Limitations:

·         More expensive and time-consuming

·         Requires specialized equipment and expertise

Key Differences

Assessment and Personalization

Traditional neurofeedback relies on general protocols, often based on symptoms and practitioner experience. In contrast, qEEG guided neurofeedback utilizes a detailed brain map to create highly personalized treatment plans. This personalization allows for a more targeted approach, potentially leading to more effective outcomes.

Data-Driven vs. Experience-Based

Traditional neurofeedback is largely based on the practitioner's intuition and experience. While skilled practitioners can achieve good results, this approach may lack the precision of qEEG guided methods. qEEG provides objective, quantifiable data that can be used to tailor interventions accurately.

Applications and Efficacy

Both traditional and qEEG guided neurofeedback are used to treat similar conditions. However, the precision of qEEG guided neurofeedback makes it particularly effective for complex cases, such as traumatic brain injuries and autism spectrum disorders. The ability to pinpoint specific areas of dysfunction can result in more rapid and pronounced improvements.

Cost and Accessibility

qEEG guided neurofeedback is generally more expensive and requires more specialized equipment and training. This can make it less accessible to some individuals compared to traditional neurofeedback, which is more widely available and often less costly.

Conclusion

While both traditional and qEEG guided neurofeedback share the common goal of optimizing brain function, they differ significantly in their approaches. Traditional neurofeedback offers a more generalized, experience-based method, which can be effective for many individuals. However, qEEG guided neurofeedback provides a highly personalized, data-driven approach that can address specific brain dysfunctions with greater precision. The choice between these methods depends on various factors, including the individual's condition, needs, and resources.

Understanding the differences between these approaches can help individuals make informed decisions about their neurofeedback treatment options and achieve the best possible outcomes for their brain health.

When differentiating between qEEG guided neurofeedback delivered by a mental health professional and traditional neurofeedback, several key aspects come into focus:

Personalization of Treatment

qEEG guided neurofeedback by a mental health professional begins with a comprehensive brain mapping process. This detailed brain map allows the professional to identify specific areas of brain dysfunction and tailor the treatment plan accordingly. This highly individualized approach contrasts with traditional neurofeedback, where treatments are often based on symptomatology and practitioner experience. Traditional neurofeedback may not have the same level of specificity and customization as qEEG guided methods, which can be particularly beneficial for complex neurological conditions.

Data Utilization

A fundamental difference lies in the use of data. qEEG guided neurofeedback relies on objective, quantitative data derived from electroencephalographic measurements. Mental health professionals use this data to create precise interventions that address specific abnormalities in brain activity. On the other hand, traditional neurofeedback often depends more on qualitative assessments and the practitioner's clinical judgment, which, while valuable, may lack the empirical rigor of qEEG guided approaches.

Effectiveness in Complex Cases

qEEG guided neurofeedback is particularly effective for treating complex cases, such as traumatic brain injuries, autism spectrum disorders, and other neurological conditions. The ability to pinpoint exact areas of dysfunction can lead to more rapid and noticeable improvements. Traditional neurofeedback, while effective for many conditions, might not achieve the same level of precision and efficacy in these complex scenarios.

Training and Expertise

Delivering qEEG guided neurofeedback requires specialized training and expertise. Mental health professionals must be adept at interpreting brain maps and translating these insights into effective treatment protocols. This level of specialization can enhance the quality of care but also means that fewer practitioners are equipped to offer qEEG guided neurofeedback compared to traditional methods, which are more widely practiced.

Accessibility and Cost

qEEG guided neurofeedback tends to be more expensive due to the advanced equipment and specialized training required. This can limit accessibility for some individuals. Traditional neurofeedback, being less resource-intensive, is generally more affordable and widely available, making it a viable option for those with budget constraints or limited access to specialized care.

In summary, while both traditional and qEEG guided neurofeedback aim to optimize brain function, the choice between them depends on the individual's specific needs, the complexity of their condition, and available resources. Understanding the distinctive features and advantages of each approach can guide individuals in selecting the most suitable neurofeedback treatment for their brain health.

Discover the Stages of Neurofeedback:

Once a qEEG is produced, analyzed and a training protocol developed, neurofeedback is employed to take full advantage of the brains’ plasticity utilizing the brains’ reward system through operant conditioning.  This is accomplished in a variety of ways, utilizing DVDs, games, audio, etc. The EEG is connected to a feedback modality, for example if using a DVD, when the neuronal pattern is moving toward a regulated pattern approximating normal, then the user sees the DVD in color and hears the sound, but if the neuronal pattern is moving away from the norm or regulated pattern then the DVD loses it’s color and the sound fades away.  The brain’s reward system then works to regulate the activity in order for the client to see the DVD and hear the sound. Over time the brain appears to begin to enjoy the new regulated pattern of behavior, and in many cases continues to stay there.

Many clients notice a shift toward regulation in as few as 5 sessions and a more permanent change in up to 20 sessions.

Neurofeedback Testimonials: