Hope for ADHD through Biofeedback & Neurofeedback
“Hey Kristen, what did you do for your mid-term project?”
“What mid-term project?” Kristen said.
That was just a small sample of her life in high school. Then in college, she completely lost her safety net of Mom, teachers, and friends…and everything got real…really fast. She was locked out of her apartment, lost her shoes, even her student ID card, and seemingly everything else.
What Is ADHD?
Everyone knows someone with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or has been affected by ADHD. Often people with ADHD act without thinking. They are hyperactive and have trouble focusing. ADHD children understand what needs to be done, but still have trouble focusing, paying attention, and frankly sitting still. Because of these hallmarks and the nature of children, early detection of the disorder is often missed.
ADHD has biological origins that are not yet understood. The science is still out on possible genetic or environmental associations. Someone diagnosed with ADHD often has a relative with the same disorder, and although genetics may play a role, the link is unclear.
Many people are occasionally anxious or excited, the difference is with ADHD, the symptoms are sustained.
There is Hope
The good news is, various treatments are available for those like Kristen who suffer from ADHD. There has been a recent development for parents who feel uneasy using medication to treat this disorder. Though medication has been proven effective and has been used for more than 50 years, the dosages can be required multiple times a day, which busy parents find hard to comply with. Behavioral treatment can also be used, and is often utilized in combination with medication.
A New Treatment
However, there are alternative treatments that may be as effective, if not more effective, than the traditional medication and behavioral therapy. Specifically, biofeedback and neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is the common name of EEG (electroencephalogram) Biofeedback. Neurofeedback is a therapy that provides instant feedback from a computer-based program that trains the brainwave activity of a person. Typically the program uses sound and/or visual signals to reorganize and retrain these brain signals. Patients respond to the program and learn to self-regulate and enhance brain function, and in the process alleviate symptoms of both neurological and mental health disorders.
In a study by Duke University Research Professor, David Rabiner, PhD on the effects of medication, neurofeedback, and combined treatment he stated: “Although differences between the 3 treatment groups were not significant, the effect on inattentive symptoms appeared largest for the neurofeedback only group (Study 1, results).” This means we can get results as good as medication and better without the pills!
As a licensed mental health counselor, I have been experimenting with neurofeedback as an alternative therapy for my clients and have been experiencing fantastic results with patients being able to self-regulate with sustained results. The biggest difference I see between the traditional route of medication and behavioral therapy is that neurofeedback is showing sustained results. This is fantastic news for those affected by ADHD!
Whatever challenge you are facing today, remember that God is with you, even in times of suffering.
Scripture:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
Next Steps:
- For a sneak peek on what treatment actually looks like:
- If treatment is needed for yourself or your family, treatments begin at $600 a month for unlimited sessions. This includes treatment for multiple family members. The best part is, you experience treatment in the comfort of your own home, typically 40 minutes a day through games and videos. All of your activity is then measured by a clinician remotely. Clients often say it feels like they’re playing games, not retraining their brain, but that’s exactly what happens with Neurofeedback. The best therapy is fun and effective. Neurofeedback is just that.
- If you’re interested in more information, connect with Aynsley Silva @: 360-207-9218 or Email: Aynsley@LacamasCounseling.com
- Concerned your child has ADHD? Take a self-test here: https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-symptoms-test-children/?src=embed_link
