Neurofeedback is making life easier for those with autism.

Neurofeedback training is an all-natural technology that can provide long-lasting improvements for autistic individuals. Both cognitive function and social skills respond well.

Neurofeedback helps “train the brain” to function at new, more efficient levels. The improved brain function allows the client to have better communication with the outside world, meaning they are more responsive to counseling and therapy, and typically show improved overall verbal and physical responses. Because of the improved ability to communicate, they are less frustrated in general, allowing them to be happier and more in control of their everyday lives.

How does Neurofeedback work?

First, new patients receive a brain mapping session, which is a pain-free way to measure real-time brainwave activity. Also known as a quantitative electroencephalogram, this technology has been in use since 1924. Advances in computers has made it much easier and more accessible for use in individual offices. Once the brain mapping session is complete, the results are used to create the most efficient approach for improving brain function, allowing the client to experience improved outcomes in all areas of their life.

What should we expect at a Neurofeedback session?

Typically, a Neurofeedback session lasts about 30 minutes. During this time, two small sensors are placed lightly on the scalp to monitor brainwaves during the training session. The training itself is easy and enjoyable.

Most autistic clients focus well on videos, because it is a more left-brain dominant activity. This works well in Neurofeedback, because during a training session, they will be relaxed watching a video or movie of their own choice. While the video plays, the sensors measure the brainwaves and provide feedback to the client on a continuous basis.

The feedback is in the form of changes in the audio and visual signals. For example, if the patient has anxious feelings, it`s measured as an excess of energy in the Beta brainwave frequency. When this happens, the movie dims and the sound decreases slightly. Over time, their brain starts to recognize the pattern of the feedback, and begins to form new, healthier neural pathways to the feedback signals themselves.

Lasting improvements

The new neural pathways crated during Neurofeedback are permanent in nature. As a result, they remain available for the patient to use long after the last training session has been done.

Remember when you fist learned a new skill, such as riding a bicycle? Once you learned how to do it, that knowledge has remained available to you long after you last rode. These results are the same – once the brain learns to function at a higher, more efficient level, the improvements remain. 

At A Brighter Mind, every new client relationship begins with an initial consultation with our board-certified clinician Tiffany Cagle-Schrift.

Schedule your consultation today!