EEG BIOFEEDBACK
FOR
ADULTS AND CHILDREN WITH
ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDERS
++POSITIVE FOCUS++
It is estimated that between 5% and 15% of the school age population has difficulty with attention. ADD and ADHD is not usually outgrown and may persist into adulthood unless treated. These children are at high risk for difficulties in school and at work despite average or above average intelligence. They are usually hard to manage at home and disrupt family life. While the causes of ADD are not always known, we do know that these individuals are not "willful", or "lazy" or "disturbed". Rather their condition reflects underlying brain pathology which makes certain tasks difficult for these children.
WHAT IS THE EEG?
The electroencephalogram or EEG is a quantifiable electrical signal produced by the brain. This signal reflects differing levels of arousal. Beta brainwaves are fast brainwaves that are produced during tasks requiring concentration. Theta brainwaves are slow brainwaves that are consistent with distractibility, daydreaming and lack of concentration. Individuals with attentional problems typically produce too much of the slow wave activity or other anomalies in the EEG. During the last 15 years research has shown that individuals with ADD and ADHD can be taught to change brain activity.
WHAT IS EEG BIOFEEDBACK?
EEG Biofeedback is a safe, non invasive computer based technology. It trains individuals to increase their ability to focus and concentrate.
EEG Biofeedback training involves placing sensors on the head and monitoring the electroencephalogram. Very much like the tuner on the stereo, the higher Beta frequencies (or melodies) of the EEG can be trained up, while the theta or bass is damped down. EEG Biofeedback allows the individual to train processes of which he is normally unaware.
Training sessions consist of playing video-like games with brain activity. These are the same games kids play at home with joysticks. The scalp sensors monitor electrical activity in the brain and when the desired signals are produced the individual receives "points" or feedback. Thus, the ability to produce desirable brain activity is "turned on." Once this skill is acquired it becomes self sustaining. Follow up studies over fifteen years demonstrate that the ability is maintained.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR EEG BIOFEEDBACK?
In order to be accepted in our training program, an initial evaluation is required. This consists of a health and developmental history and evaluative EEG. It is non-invasive and completely comfortable. Usually, it is fun for the individual to see his brain activity. If the EEG supports the diagnosis of dysfunction, then training is recommended. This involves two or three sessions weekly during the initial phases. Less frequent sessions are used as training nears completion. usually between 40-50 training sessions are required.
WHAT ARE THE RESULTS?
The results include improvement in academics, decreased irritability and impulsivity, increased attention, and enhanced self-esteem. After 25 sessions, some children on medication are able to begin reductions in medications. Handwriting may improve, as may secondary symptoms, such as tics, bedwetting, and headaches may be improved.
We have observed that EEG Biofeedback is an exciting and effective treatment for ADD and ADHD. We suggest it be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program that may include family and/or individual counseling, tutoring, school interventions and possible medication.
Positive Focus services also include psychological testing and diagnostic assessment for children and adults. We provide neuropsychological evaluations and can monitor medication effectiveness with the TOVA (Test of Variables of Attention).
Our program is frequently covered by medical insurance and we offer a sliding scale of charges for qualified families. Stop in for a free initial consultation.
Research into EEG Biofeedback has been done for the past 20 years. Various protocols of EEG Biofeedback have been used successfully to treat:
Addictive Disorders and Chemical Dependency (training has been shown to reduce cravings)
Closed head injury and the resulting depression, headache and memory difficulties
Epileptic seizures
ABOUT THE STAFF
Sheila Snyder, Ph.D.
PSY9931
is a Clinical Psychologist, located in Palo Alto, California - 650-327-1941. She specializes in children with special needs.
Sherry Leardini C.B.T.
BCIA 3592
is a biofeedback therapist.
She does stress management and all forms of biofeedback.
A NOTE FROM POSITIVE FOCUS:
Attention Deficit Disorders in Adults has recently been receiving media notice. 20-20 had an episode focusing on adults whose lives had been improved by correct diagnosis and treatment. Diagnosis of Adult ADD, is a complex process. Positive Focus is pleased to offer a comprehensive screening program for Attention Deficit Disorders in both adults and children.
This screening program consists of the following components:
A complete Diagnostic History
Testing for ability, achievement and personality
EEG biofeedback screening
TOVA (Test of Variables of Attention)
This diagnostic allows us to discriminate between attentional variables and other diagnostic categories. The TOVA, a neurological measure, can also be used to monitor treatment effects. The EEG provides physiological data about brain states involved in attending, relaxation, etc.
EEG BIOFEEDBACK is an adjunctive treatment approach to these problems. It can be used to supplement medication or to provide and alternative. It is non-invasive and has no negative side effects. We have been very encouraged by the positive results obtained through this training.
