Neurofeedback for ADHD
I was very excited when a local TV station had a short segment about Adults and ADHD. They interviewed a woman I know who does life coaching and testing for adults. They also interviewed another man who runs a successful business with ADHD. He talked about how he copes and uses different methods to keep track of things.
The only mention for treatment for ADHD was medication and diet. I sat there thinking, “what about neurofeedback?” I emailed the TV anchorwoman right after the broadcast to find out if she would do a follow-up story about treating ADHD with neurofeedback. I mentioned it would be helpful if she could interview my clinician, who is an LCSW, and has been using neurofeedback in her private practice for the past five years. She uses it for her clients with issues of addiction, ADHD, anxiety, depression, head injuries, migraines, PTSD, and strokes. I was pleasantly surprised when she wrote me back a few hours later and said she was interested in following up with both of us in the near future.
I happened to be booked for a NF treatment the following day and eagerly told my clinician. She, yet again, reminded me that just because I had such a great response to NF treatment not everyone does. She actually thinks it is the combination of psychotherapy, CBT, and neurofeedback that makes the most impact on healing.
I sat there and thought about it. I have been seeing her for 2 years. We do start each session with basically a therapy session. I tell her what is going on in my life, she counsels me a bit, sometimes giving me advice or feedback, and then I have a 30 minute session of neurofeedback.
What is Neurofeedback?
In a nutshell, during neurofeedback you sit and play video games – no hands, just eyes – and/or watch documentaries, while electrodes are attached to your scalp. It is simple, painless, and, in my opinion, effortless.
The clinician watches your brain activity as you focus on the games or videos and lets you know what's happening. The idea is to train the brain to stay more active and focused, and to function more efficiently.
