Neurofeedback for ADD / ADHD: What is it? What does it do? 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 11 percent of American children have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.  Doctors often treat ADD/ADHD by prescribing stimulants such as Adderall or Ritalin.  Unfortunately these medications come with some serious side effects which can include stunted or delayed growth, decreased appetite, difficulty gaining and retaining weight, sleep problems and even potential heart problems. Now a completely natural, non-invasive treatment with a proven track record exists that can help alleviate symptoms related to ADD/ADHD.

What is Neurofeedback?

 Neurofeedback, also called neurotherapy, neurobiofeedback or EEG biofeedback is a therapy technique that teaches people to control brainwaves. This is accomplished by providing the user with information on their brainwave activity, as measured by electrodes on the scalp, typically in the form of audio or visual cues.  Positive feedback is given for desired brainwave activity and negative feedback for brain activity that is undesirable.  Years of clinical research have shown that certain patterns of abnormal brainwaves correlate with certain behaviors.Dysfunctional electrical activity in the brain is detected by performing a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG) brain map.  This allows the provider to identify abnormal brainwave patterns and plan a suitable intervention.  Armed with a current brain map, the clinician can help the patient to resolve their clinical issues by training their brain to be more effective.

Why would I choose neurofeedback to treat ADD/ADHD when it can be treated with medication?

 Neurofeedback is a way to control the symptoms of ADD/ADHD without taking stimulant medications. It is a safe, non-invasive alternative treatment for anyone suffering from ADD/ADHD. In November 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics approved neurofeedback as a Level 1 or “best support” treatment option for children suffering from ADD/ADHD.While anxious, stressed people have too little alpha and theta waves, children with ADD/ADHD often have increased amounts of these slower/daydreaming waves and an inability to access the faster beta waves needed for concentration.  Training to decrease slow activity and increase fast activity has been used successfully for over 25 years to ameliorate ADD/ADHD.

To learn more about neurofeedback in NYC click here.