Neurodevelopmental & Neurological

ADHD/Focus in Children/Adolescents

Effectiveness of EEG Biofeedback as Compared with Methylphenidate in the Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Clinical Outcome Study (View)

  • Summary: This study by Nazari et al. compared the effectiveness of EEG biofeedback and methylphenidate for treating ADHD in children aged 7 to 12. While both methods improved behavior, methylphenidate was more effective overall. EEG biofeedback enhanced response inhibition, and both methods improved cognitive functions. The findings suggest EEG biofeedback could be an alternative treatment, especially for non-responders to medication or those preferring non-pharmacological approaches.

Six Case Studies Examining the Effectiveness of a Comprehensive Adaptive Approach to Neurofeedback for Attention Deficit in an Educational Setting (view)

  • Summary: Shannon Warwick's study focused on six elementary school students with ADHD, using neurofeedback training over six months to reduce theta/beta ratios. Five out of six students showed improvements, especially in lowering ratios. The approach proved effective even with varying medication types and schedules. The study's adaptive method replicated positive outcomes, supporting the potential of comprehensive neurofeedback for ADHD.

ADHD/Focus in College Students

An Investigation of the Effects of Neurofeedback Training on Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, and Academic Self-Efficacy in College Students. (View)

  • Summary: Research by Shaywanna Harris examines how neurofeedback training can help college students with ADHD manage their symptoms and related challenges. Neurofeedback, a non-invasive technique using brain self-regulation, was tested on 11 participants through 16 sessions. Results showed significant reductions in inattention, hyperactivity, depression, and anxiety, while academic self-efficacy notably increased. This study suggests that neurofeedback could be a promising intervention for addressing ADHD symptoms and improving the well-being of college students.

The Effects of Neurofeedback Training on College Students’ Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms (View)

  • Summary: Researchers led by Harris conducted a study on college students dealing with ADHD symptoms. They wanted to see if neurofeedback training could improve performance and focus. They worked with 11 students who had ADHD. These students did 16 sessions of neurofeedback training over 8 weeks, and then their progress was rechecked 4 weeks later. The results showed that the students improved in their ability to pay attention, became less hyperactive, and felt more positive about their ADHD.

ADHD in Adults

Effectiveness of Neurofeedback Treatment on Adult ADHD: A Meta-Analysis (view)

Summary: This meta-analysis aimed to assess the effectiveness of neurofeedback treatments for adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Nine studies were analyzed, and the combined effect sizes were calculated for various ADHD symptom indicators. The results showed significant and large effect sizes for inattention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and total ADHD symptoms. In conclusion, neurofeedback treatment was found to significantly reduce ADHD symptoms in adults with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Autism

Assessment-Guided Neurofeedback for Autistic Spectrum Disorder (view)

  • Summary: 37 ASD patients received 20 neurofeedback sessions guided by assessments. Experimental and control groups were matched for various factors. Results: ASD symptoms improved by 89%. Neurofeedback led to significant improvement compared to the control group. Core ASD symptoms reduced by 40%, and 76% in the experimental group showed reduced brain hyperconnectivity, which correlated with positive outcomes. Improvements were confirmed by assessments. Conclusions: Neurofeedback is effective for ASD based on various measures. Assessment-guided neurofeedback's role in decreasing brain hyperconnectivity could explain positive outcomes.

Neurofeedback for Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Review of the Literature (view)

  • Summary: There's a need for effective interventions for autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). Behavior therapy helps communication and behavior. Other options include medication and biomedical approaches, but these can have side effects and long-term commitments. Neurofeedback, a noninvasive method, has been shown to improve brain regulation and metabolic function in ASD. They review how Neurofeedback is used for various ASD issues.

Sensory Processing

Comparison of the Effect of Interventions based on Spark Perceptual-Motor Exercises, Neurofeedback, and Mindfulness on the Sensory Integration of Children in the Second Grade of Elementary School with ADHD (view)

  • Summary: This study aimed to compare the effects of interventions using spark-perceptual-motor exercises, neurofeedback, and mindfulness on sensory integration. The study involved children in the second grade with ADHD in Isfahan and used a quasi-experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up measures. A total of 60 participants were divided into four groups: mindfulness, perceptual-motor training, neurofeedback, and control. Sensory integration was measured using the Hanschu and Risman questionnaire. The analysis revealed that neurofeedback and spark treatment significantly improved sensory integration compared to the control group (p < 0.01), while mindfulness showed less significant improvement (p < 0.05). Mindfulness scores remained consistent between pre-test and post-test, while neurofeedback and spark treatment showed significant improvement (p < 0.05).

Dyslexia

The Neurophysiology of Dyslexia: A Selective Review with Implications for Neurofeedback Remediation and Results of Treatment in Twelve Consecutive Patients (view)

  • Summary: Dyslexia is common (5-10%) with no consistent treatment. Advances in imaging and neurophysiology reveal reading circuitry and differences in dyslexia. Neurofeedback is explored. A QEEG and reading topograph are used, training increased or decreased abnormalities. Improving 16-18 Hz activity at T3 helps reading speed and comprehension. Combined approaches have shown improvement in treated cases. Individuals improved by at least two grade levels in 30-35 sessions.

Comparing the Effectiveness of Neurofeedback, Neuropsychology, and Phonological Awareness Methods in Improving Dyslexia Symptoms of Students: A Network Meta-analysis (view)

  • Summary: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of neurofeedback, neuropsychology, and phonological awareness interventions in improving dyslexia symptoms among students. A network meta-analysis of 49 studies with 1,741 participants was conducted. Neurofeedback, neuropsychology, and phonological awareness interventions were found to be effective in reducing dyslexia symptoms compared to controls. The perceptual-motor method and neuropsychological interventions were ranked as the most effective interventions. Further studies in diverse cultural contexts and countries are needed to confirm these findings.

Epilepsy

Meta-Analysis of EEG Biofeedback in Treating Epilepsy (view)

  • Summary: About one-third of epilepsy patients don't respond to medical treatment. EEG biofeedback, or neurofeedback, is an alternative that uses operant conditioning to normalize or enhance EEG activity. They analyzed 63 studies on neurofeedback and epilepsy from 1970 to 2005. Ten studies with patients unresponsive to medical therapy were included in a meta-analysis. Most studies targeted sensorimotor rhythms (SMR). Overall, there was a significant decrease in seizure frequency following EEG biofeedback treatment, with 74% reporting fewer weekly seizures. The effect size was −0.233 (p<.001), showing significant reduction in seizure frequency, which is notable given the non-responsive patient group.

Foundation and Practice of Neurofeedback for the Treatment of Epilepsy (view)

  • Summary: This review presents a comprehensive update on clinical neurofeedback, covering its neurophysiological rationale, research literature, and practice methods. Focusing on epilepsy treatment using sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) training, it discusses the neural basis of SMR and its effectiveness. While more clinical trials are needed, existing literature supports neurofeedback as a viable epilepsy treatment. Successful clinical practice requires understanding EEG physiology, learning principles, and equipment options. Mapping EEG measures against norms before and after treatment is recommended. Overall, neurofeedback offers a well-founded option for epilepsy treatment.

Neurofeedback and epilepsy(view)

  • Summary: Over the last 30 years, researchers have explored behavioral methods for treating epilepsy, including neurofeedback, which aims to decrease seizures by regulating specific brainwave frequencies. This article reviews current research on neurofeedback's effectiveness in reducing seizure frequency. Although most reviewed studies show positive results, several factors complicate the findings. Lack of controlled studies makes it hard to definitively establish the link between neurofeedback and seizure reduction. Nevertheless, the potential of neurofeedback as an epilepsy treatment is promising.

Cognitive Impairment

"Chemobrain"

A Systematic Review of the Effect of Neurofeedback in Cancer Patients (view)

  • Summary: The study by Hetkamp and colleagues explores the potential of neurofeedback (NF) in cancer patients. The review systematically assesses the impact of NF on symptoms and burden in cancer patients and survivors. The review indicates that NF might offer complementary, non-drug, and non-invasive therapy for alleviating symptoms like pain, fatigue, depression, and sleep issues.

Efficacy of EEG Biofeedback in Addressing Cognitive Dysfunction in Cancer Survivors (view)

  • Summary: Alvarez et al.'s study investigated if EEG biofeedback could help breast cancer survivors with "chemobrain." They found that after ten weeks of sessions, participants showed significant improvements in cognitive function, fatigue, and psychological symptoms. The study suggests EEG biofeedback might reverse cognitive issues caused by cancer treatment.

Efficacy of EEG Biofeedback in Addressing Cognitive Dysfunction in Cancer Survivors (view)

  • Summary: The study explored how neurofeedback impacts the lives of posttreatment cancer survivors. Interviews with neurofeedback providers and clients revealed themes including positive effects like transformation, control, and comfort, as well as challenges like accessibility and varied responses. The findings suggest neurofeedback could enhance the quality of life for cancer survivors.

Neurofeedback and Post-Cancer Cognitive Impairment (view)

  • Summary: The study explores neurofeedback, specifically the NeurOptimal system, as a way to influence brainwave activity and enhance neuroplasticity. Unlike traditional methods, NeurOptimal trains the entire brain's dynamic activity, promoting self-regulation and adaptability. This approach is suggested for managing conditions like post-cancer cognitive impairment. It aligns with concepts from nonlinear dynamical systems theory, aiding the brain's transitions between mental states. The Zengar system doesn't diagnose specific symptoms and isn't a controlled medical device, focusing on flexibility and resilience rather than treatment.

COVID Brain Fog

Effect of Neurofeedback Therapy on Neurological Post-COVID-19 Complications (view)

  • Summary: This pilot study, led by Mária Orendáčová and colleagues, aimed to explore the effectiveness of neurofeedback (using the Othmer method) for treating anxiety, fatigue, and depression as post-COVID-19 complications. Ten participants with such complications were included. Neurofeedback sessions were conducted, and changes in questionnaire scores were assessed using ANOVA. The study found significant reductions in post-COVID anxiety and depression after five neurofeedback sessions, with effects lasting at least a month. The study also revealed positive correlations between anxiety, depression, and fatigue severity. These findings indicate the potential effectiveness of neurofeedback for addressing post-COVID neurological complications.

Possible Mechanisms Underlying Neurological Post-COVID Symptoms and Neurofeedback as a Potential Therapy (view)

  • Summary: The article explores possible explanations for neurological post-COVID complications, suggesting a two-phase model involving acute infection-related onset and post-acute infection-related persistence. It proposes analyzing symptoms using dynamical system theory concepts. Notably, the article highlights the potential of neurofeedback therapies, including techniques like functional magnetic resonance-based and quantitative EEG-based neurofeedback and heart rate variability-based biofeedback, as promising strategies to alleviate post-COVID symptoms and enhance recovery.

Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion

A Case Study. Physical, Psychological and Cognitive Trauma with Recovery through NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback (View)

  • Summary: Denise Cull, a former respected Forensic Psychologist from Perth, Australia, suffered a spinal injury and closed head injury in 2002 due to a sporting accident. The resulting cognitive damage led her to seek neuro-psychometric testing from Dr. Leonie Coxon. Encouraged by improvements, she underwent NeurOptimal Neurofeedback sessions with additional oxygen and infrared light therapy. Her positive progress prompted further testing, showing significant improvement, which she attributes to NeurOptimal. She continued sessions and underwent subsequent neuro-psychometric testing, demonstrating even more advancement, supported by scientific evidence and confirming the efficacy of NeurOptimal with oxygen and infrared light therapy. Her journey and results are detailed in a case study presented at a conference.

An Overview of the Use of Neurofeedback Biofeedback for the Treatment of Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury in Military and Civilian Populations (view)

  • Summary: Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback, is investigated for its potential in treating symptoms related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) in both civilian and military contexts. It discusses an ongoing pilot study that examines the effects of a commercial neurofeedback device on mild-to-moderate TBI patients. While more research, including controlled studies, is needed, the literature indicates promising outcomes in treating TBI symptoms with neurofeedback, potentially enhancing treatment motivation and reducing issues related to attention, mood, and mindfulness for TBI survivors.

Neuromodulation for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review (view)

  • Summary: This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of neuromodulation techniques in the context of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Fourteen selected studies were reviewed, focusing on adult samples and employing pre- and post-intervention designs. The majority of studies reported positive outcomes, with reductions in mTBI symptomatology including post-concussion symptoms, headaches, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and more. Various neuromodulation modalities were utilized, showing promising results, but the review underscores methodological limitations such as small sample sizes and diverse intervention protocols.

Alzheimer's Disease

The effectiveness of neurofeedback on cognitive functioning in patients with Alzheimer's disease: Preliminary results (view)

  • Summary: This study aimed to investigate the impact of neurofeedback on cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Ten AD patients with abnormal qEEG results received neurofeedback training, and their cognitive functioning was assessed using the CAMCOG test before and after treatment. The results, evaluated using a reliable change index (RCI), indicated that patients who underwent neurofeedback maintained stable cognitive functions and even exhibited memory improvement, while other cognitive functions remained stable. Additionally, improvements were noted in information recall and recognition. This suggests that neurofeedback may have a positive effect on cognitive performance in AD patients, warranting further high-quality randomized controlled trials for conclusive evaluation of its role in AD treatment.

Cognitive Improvement and Brain Changes after Real-Time Functional MRI Neurofeedback Training in Healthy Elderly and Prodromal Alzheimer’s Disease (view)

  • Summary: In a proof-of-concept study, researchers investigated whether cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and healthy aging could be mitigated through real-time fMRI neurofeedback training, targeting visuospatial memory and the parahippocampal gyrus (PHG). Sixteen healthy elderly participants and ten prodromal AD patients completed the experiment, with four additional healthy subjects forming a sham-feedback control group. The study spanned five days, involving neuropsychological assessments, fMRI neurofeedback training to enhance PHG activation, and brain scans. Results showed improved visuospatial memory in both groups, along with enhanced working memory in healthy subjects. Participants could elicit parahippocampal activation during training, and although no significant brain activation changes were observed, cerebral connectivity alterations were detected. Grey matter volume increases were found in the precuneus and frontal cortex. Notably, the control group undergoing sham-feedback did not exhibit cognitive improvements or parahippocampal activation. These findings suggest that fMRI neurofeedback may have potential as a tool to counteract cognitive decline in both prodromal AD and healthy aging, warranting further investigation for its treatment potential.

Sleep Disturbance

Chronic Insomnia

Effectiveness of Neurofeedback Training In Chronic Insomnia (view)

  • Summary: The study examined the efficacy of neurofeedback training for chronic insomnia. Neurofeedback, using real-time EEG feedback to reduce hyperarousability, was integrated with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) in the NeuroCare system. Eight patients were analyzed, and results demonstrated significant improvements in various sleep metrics, including total sleep time, sleep efficiency, wake after sleep onset, and sleep onset latency. The study suggests neurofeedback could be effective in treating insomnia, but further research is needed to understand its role alongside CBT and its potential as a standalone treatment.

Neurofeedback for Insomnia: A Pilot Study of Z-Score SMR and Individualized Protocols (view)

  • Summary: Participants received fifteen 20-minute NFB sessions, and assessments revealed significant improvements in primary insomnia scores, sleep quality, and quality of life for both groups combined. Both NFB groups experienced enhanced sleep and daytime functioning.

Repair Natural Sleep Patterns

Natural Sleep Rhythms: From Cells to Behavior (view)

  • Summary: How NeurOptimal®potentially interfaces with, and restores, natural sleep rhythms. New evidence mapping cellular networks underlying the brain’s circadian timing nucleus has provided a potential locus of control for the human circadian rhythm (HCR). This network provides a biologically plausible regulatory site for external influence of the HCR-notably pharmacologic agents, environmental influence, and particularly salient to this presentation, NeurOptimal®.

Emotional & Mental Health Spectrum

Performance Anxiety

Letting Go of Performance Anxiety and Optimizing Musical Performance in a Case of Traumatic Loss (View)

  • Summary: The article introduces a model integrating psychoanalytic psychotherapy with neurofeedback, in a case of performance anxiety in a professional musician. The author uses a neurofeedback approach that is comprehensive and adaptive, emphasizing a renormalizing of brainwaves, rather than producing specific states or shifts in particular bandwidths in the EEG. Psychoanalytic psychotherapy is used to address the musician's history of traumatic loss. The case is outlined, and improvements are described in terms of optimized musical performance and improved coping under pressure.

Special Issue: Sports, the Arts, and Beyond (view)

  • Summary: This issue is part of a series focused on the use of biofeedback and neurofeedback in optimal performance, with previous issues covering sports, artistry, and everyday life. The current emphasis is on optimal performance as a versatile paradigm applicable in various contexts. Biofeedback serves as an effective tool for individuals to uncover their untapped potential and make self-discoveries.

Social Anxiety

Neurofeedback Training to Address College Students’ Symptoms of Anxiety and Stress: A Quasi-Experimental Design (view)

  • Summary: College students often face high levels of anxiety and stress, leading to various challenges. Universities often struggle to address students' mental health needs adequately. Neurofeedback (NFB) training, a noninvasive method aimed at alleviating anxiety and stress symptoms by regulating brain processes, offers an innovative solution for college students. A study using a pre-posttest control group design assessed whether NFB could reduce anxiety and stress in a treatment group compared to a waitlist control group. Results showed significant decreases in social anxiety and perceived stress scores for the treatment group.

Stress and Burnout

Improvement in stress levels or symptom intensity/frequency Five Year Clinical Outcome Study Using NeurOptimal® (view)

  • Summary: NeurOptimal neurofeedback engages with the nervous system differently from traditional linear measurements, focusing on individual outcomes and addressing the root causes of turbulence in the nervous system. Rather than relying on medical categories, this approach examines outcomes across different conditions. Over five years, InnerWave Center assessed clients' progress using a questionnaire before and after 7-10 sessions and 15-30 sessions. The questionnaire measured stress level, symptom intensity, and frequency on scales, and 62 clients were included in the review. The results showed that 93% of clients experienced improvement in stress levels or symptom intensity/frequency. The study aimed to maintain a consistent environment during training sessions and highlighted the subjective nature of individual improvement.

Neurofeedback Training for Stress and Burnout in the Workplace (view)

  • Summary: In employees with higher initial stress levels, NeurOptimal® training led to significant reductions in stress and personal burnout scores, and these improvements were still present six months after the training. In contrast, the sham group did not show statistically significant improvements, and any changes seen in that group were not sustained after three months post-training.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-analysis on Effectiveness of Neurofeedback for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (view)

  • Summary: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of neurofeedback treatment for individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A review and meta-analysis of controlled trials were conducted, involving 1211 patients with OCD symptoms. The primary outcome measure was the severity of OCD symptoms based on DSM IV, with the Y-BOCS scale used as the primary measure. Nine trials met inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed a significant benefit of neurofeedback treatment compared to other treatments, indicating a reduction in OCD symptoms (MD = -6.815; 95% CI = [-9.033, -4.598]; P < 0.001). These findings suggest that neurofeedback may be an effective method for treating OCD.

Depression & Anxiety

The Effects of Neurofeedback on Depression, Anxiety, and Academic Self-Efficacy (view)

  • Summary: This preliminary study examined the effects of 16 sessions of neurofeedback (NF) training protocol on levels of depression, anxiety, and academic self-efficacy in college students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Results identified that NF was a viable option for mitigating depression and anxiety symptoms as well as increasing academic self-efficacy scores in college students with ADHD, based on their scores over time. Implications for college counselors are presented.

A Meta-Analysis of the Effect of Neurofeedback on Depression (view)

  • Summary: In this meta-analytical study, the impact of neurofeedback (NF) on reducing depression was investigated. The primary result of the analysis revealed a substantial reduction in depression (effect size g = -0.91) associated with NF. This reduction is attributed to the influence of brainwave oscillations on the formation and persistence of depression, as well as the development of oscillatory patterns less conducive to depressive states. The approach-withdrawal model, linked to frontal region activation and amygdala hypoactivity, is suggested as a potential mechanism behind NF's effectiveness in reducing depression. While these findings support the use of NF as either a complement to pharmaceutical depression treatment or a standalone therapy due to its notable effect size, the relatively limited research on NF compared to antidepressant medications necessitates further investigation.

A Meta-Analysis of Neurofeedback for Treating Anxiety-Spectrum Disorders (view)

  • Summary: This meta-analysis aimed to address the insurance-related issue of neurofeedback (NFB) being considered experimental despite its documented effectiveness in treating individuals with anxiety symptoms. The study analyzed 26 articles categorized into single-group (SG) and between-group (BG) designs to assess NFB's overall effectiveness, the influence of participant characteristics, and differences in outcomes related to the anxiety spectrum. The results revealed that self-report assessments of anxiety-spectrum symptoms were significantly reduced by approximately one standard deviation unit in both SG (SDM = -0.94) and BG (g = -0.87) designs, with minimal bias. This comprehensive literature review encompassed articles from 17 different databases and repositories. However, the applicability of these findings is limited to Caucasian adults with symptoms of anxiety or PTSD.

Eating Disorders

Feedback-Based Treatments for Eating Disorders and Related Symptoms: A Systematic Review of the Literature (view)

  • Summary: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and PsychINFO yielded 162 articles, among which thirteen studies were included in this review. None of the studies combined different feedback modalities. The findings suggest that feedback-based techniques show promise in addressing dysfunctional eating behaviors such as food craving and rumination. However, significant effects were not observed for certain EDs-related symptoms like body image disturbance. These techniques also demonstrated the ability to influence physiological responses to food-related stimuli and brain activity in reward-related brain regions. Overall, feedback-based treatments appear to offer potential benefits for managing various dysfunctional eating behaviors through both top-down and bottom-up coping strategies. The review also addresses methodological and clinical considerations.

Trauma & PTSD

Trauma & PTSD

The Body Keeps the Score. Chapter 19: Applied Neuroscience: Rewiring the Fear-Driven Mind with Brain/Computer Interface Technology (view)

  • Summary: Psychiatrist, researcher, and New York Times Best Selling Author Bessel van der Kolk explores the effectiveness of neurofeedback in healing trauma.

A Randomized Controlled Study of Neurofeedback for Chronic PTSD (view)

  • Summary: This study focused on Brain/Computer Interaction (BCI) devices that influence mental activity. It was a randomized trial with chronic PTSD patients, using EEG neurofeedback training (NF) to see if it reduces symptoms and enhances affect regulation. 52 individuals with PTSD were divided into NF (28) and waitlist (24) groups. They were evaluated at baseline, week 6, post-treatment, and one month follow-up. NF training occurred twice a week for 12 weeks. Post-treatment, fewer NF participants met PTSD criteria (27.3%) compared to waitlist (68.2%). NF showed significant improvement in PTSD symptoms and affect regulation. Its effect sizes were similar to established PTSD treatments. NF could be a valuable tool for PTSD treatment and emotion regulation, warranting further research to understand its mechanisms.

The Effectiveness of Using Neurofeedback in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review (view)

  • Summary: Neurofeedback is a promising treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) accessible to mental health therapists. PTSD can harm mental and physical health, including the brain. Neurofeedback shows potential in reducing PTSD symptoms, even for those unresponsive to previous treatments. Despite success stories, research has been criticized for weak methods. This systematic review, aimed at therapists, focuses on behavioral outcomes. Ten studies were analyzed, showing positive results for most participants. However, differences in sample sizes, designs, measures, and reporting affect interpretation. Future research should prioritize larger randomized trials with long-term follow-up.

Effectiveness of Neurofeedback on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and the Optimal Choice of Protocol (view)

  • Summary: Neurofeedback, a noninvasive alternative, is used to treat various neuropsychiatric conditions, including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). There are different neurofeedback methods and PTSD is diverse. To evaluate the effectiveness and preferred approach of neurofeedback for PTSD, a systematic search of databases was done, yielding five relevant studies. Neurofeedback showed significant effects in three studies and neurobiological changes in three. However, varying study designs and differences limit result interpretation. The positive outcomes suggest that neurofeedback is likely effective for treating PTSD.

Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion

A Case Study …. Physical, Psychological and Cognitive Trauma with Recovery through NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback (View)

  • Summary: Denise Cull, a former respected Forensic Psychologist from Perth, Australia, suffered a spinal injury and closed head injury in 2002 due to a sporting accident. The resulting cognitive damage led her to seek neuro-psychometric testing from Dr. Leonie Coxon. Encouraged by improvements, she underwent NeurOptimal Neurofeedback sessions with additional oxygen and infrared light therapy. Her positive progress prompted further testing, showing significant improvement, which she attributes to NeurOptimal. She continued sessions and underwent subsequent neuro-psychometric testing, demonstrating even more advancement, supported by scientific evidence and confirming the efficacy of NeurOptimal with oxygen and infrared light therapy. Her journey and results are detailed in a case study presented at a conference.

An Overview of the Use of Neurofeedback Biofeedback for the Treatment of Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury in Military and Civilian Populations (view)

  • Summary: Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback, is investigated for its potential in treating symptoms related to traumatic brain injury (TBI) in both civilian and military contexts. It discusses an ongoing pilot study that examines the effects of a commercial neurofeedback device on mild-to-moderate TBI patients. While more research, including controlled studies, is needed, the literature indicates promising outcomes in treating TBI symptoms with neurofeedback, potentially enhancing treatment motivation and reducing issues related to attention, mood, and mindfulness for TBI survivors.

Neuromodulation for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review (view)

  • Summary: This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy of neuromodulation techniques in the context of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Fourteen selected studies were reviewed, focusing on adult samples and employing pre- and post-intervention designs. The majority of studies reported positive outcomes, with reductions in mTBI symptomatology including post-concussion symptoms, headaches, depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and more. Various neuromodulation modalities were utilized, showing promising results, but the review underscores methodological limitations such as small sample sizes and diverse intervention protocols.

Developmental Trauma

The Impact of Neurofeedback Training on Children with Developmental Trauma: A Randomized Controlled Study (view)

  • Summary: In this study, the focus is on developmental trauma resulting from childhood abuse and neglect, which has long-term detrimental effects on mental and neural development, causing difficulties in areas like attention, impulse control, and self-regulation. The study involves 37 children aged 6 to 13 with developmental trauma, aiming to assess the impact of neurofeedback training (NFT) on their condition. The children were split into two groups: one receiving active NFT sessions and the other following treatment as usual. After 24 NFT sessions, the active group displayed significant improvements in PTSD symptoms, emotional and behavioral issues, and executive functioning. The study suggests that NFT has the potential to benefit children with severe abuse and neglect histories who have been unresponsive to prior therapies, offering hope for enhanced learning, self-efficacy, and social relationships.

Other

Impact on Foster/Adoptive Families

Interventions Designed for Children with Histories of Institutionalization and Placed in Foster or Adoptive Families (view)

  • Summary: In the book, "Child Maltreatment in Residential Care," neurofeedback is reviewed as an intervention for children with a history of institutionalization who are subsequently placed in foster or adoptive homes. Using an evidence-based and evidence-informed perspective, the authors review interventions for the more common psychosocial problems encountered by children with such histories. Interventions cover topics such as attachment, sensory problems, hoarding and gorging, and behavior problems related to early trauma. It does not include medical interventions.

Impact on Family Systems

Differentiation of Self and Neurofeedback: Integrating Top Down/Bottom Up (view)

  • Summary: Bowen's focus on self-awareness within the context of automatic relationship patterns to manage reactivity. He suggests becoming "aware" of how one's reactivity impacts one's functioning to improve relationship patterns. In this chapter, neurofeedback is suggested as an additional effective way for individuals to become "aware" of how reactivity (anxiety) impacts their overall functioning.

Neurofeedback as a companion to psychotherapy

Comprehensive Neurofeedback Training in the Context of Psychotherapy for Transformational Change (view)

  • Summary: This qualitative study delves into the experiences of individuals undergoing Neurofeedback Training (NFT) within the context of psychotherapy. The research focuses on understanding the changes reported by clients as a result of NFT and how these effects extend beyond the training period. Unlike traditional operant conditioning models, the NFT system used in the study employs a user-friendly, client-guided, nonlinear dynamical systems approach that doesn't require initial assessments or diagnostics. The study highlights the unique and unexplored process of change facilitated by this approach, emphasizing human self-organization and self-regulation based on necessary information. The study also covers historical, theoretical, and philosophical influences that have contributed to the development of this nonlinear dynamical systems approach in psychotherapy and NFT.

Addiction

A meta-analysis of neurofeedback for treating substance use disorders (view)

  • Summary: This meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of neurofeedback (NFB) as a treatment for individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) through between-group studies. The study conducted a comprehensive literature search, including articles from 58 databases, and assessed 10 studies with a total of 30 effect sizes. The effect size measure used was Hedge's g, and risk of bias was evaluated using various analyses. The analysis revealed a significant reduction in SUD symptoms with NFB treatment, resulting in a mean effect size of -1.49. This study underscores the strong evidence for the efficacy of NFB in treating SUD and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to client care in SUD treatment.

Tinnitus

Neurofeedback for Tinnitus Treatment (view)

  • Summary: The study by Dohrmann and team explores using neurofeedback to address abnormal brain activity associated with tinnitus. The researchers focused on normalizing this activity by enhancing alpha frequency range (8-12 Hz) oscillations and reducing delta power range (0.5-4 Hz) in perisylvian brain regions. Electrodes on the frontal scalp recorded this activity. Successful modification of the theta-to-delta ratio led to significant reductions in tinnitus intensity. Participants who achieved this change experienced considerable relief from tinnitus, with some reporting its complete disappearance. Overall, the neurofeedback training proved more effective in reducing tinnitus-related distress than frequency discrimination training.

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