Neurofeedback
The alternative to psychopharmaka
There are 2 levels where mental problems can be tackled:
- biological level
- psychological level
Both levels are important and deserve our attention:
The biological level can serve as a complement or even a substitute for psychological treatment.
On the biological level, there are basically 2 approaches:
- The administration of psychoactive substances (psychopharmaceuticals) or the application of energy (in the form of electricity or strong magnetic fields) to the brain
- Conditioning brain activity based on the learning mechanism of operant conditioning (neurofeedback). Neurofeedback causes a change in brain activity that can be measured.
Neuromodulation is a targeted modification of brain activity, the familiar patterns of excitation in the brain.
When should I use Neurofeedback?
Treatment at the biological level supports improvement, especially for problems related to over- or under-arousal (anxiety, attention, sleep, depression), pain, or after trauma. A biological-level supplement is beneficial in such cases.
Typically, the biological level is treated with psychopharmaceuticals. This class of medications is known for common side effects ranging from dependencies to difficulties with discontinuation. Neurofeedback is an alternative without significant side effects (short-term fatigue, headaches, or very rarely, nausea may occur). The effect of neurofeedback is sustainable, which is an exclusive advantage of this technique.
What is Neurofeedback?
Many processes in the body occur unconsciously and automatically; they are regulated by the nervous system. Examples include our breathing, blood pressure, muscles, intestinal activity, etc.
Unconscious processes are primarily controlled by the brain: the sleep/wake rhythm (sleep quality), arousal regulation (attention & hyperactivity), pain, and of course, all psychological states such as depression, anxiety, compulsion, etc.
Neurofeedback is the only technique that can specifically influence brain activity without the use of chemical substances (psychopharmaceuticals) or the application of energy (electricity, magnetic fields) to the brain (neuromodulation). Brain activity in neurofeedback is achieved through conditioning (a learning mechanism).
Accordion
Neurofeedback has been proven effective for various psychological and neurological disorders. Numerous studies and meta-analyses have shown positive effects of neurofeedback in ADHD, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. It can also be used for pain disorders such as headaches and migraines, as well as sleep problems. The effects of neurofeedback are sustainable, with positive effects observed even after 10 years.
The number of sessions and the duration of therapy can vary depending on individual circumstances. Typically, initial positive effects can be observed after 9-15 sessions. However, more sessions may be required depending on age, severity of symptoms, and individual response to neurofeedback. A single session usually lasts about 20 minutes, and ideally, 2-3 sessions per week should be conducted.
Neurofeedback is based on the principles of conditioning and modifying brain activity. It involves measuring brain activity using an EEG headset and providing positive or negative feedback to amplify or diminish specific patterns. The brain's learning mechanism is utilized to reinforce desired patterns and reduce undesired ones. For a neurofeedback therapy, an EEG headset and corresponding software are required to measure brain activity and provide feedback.
Neurofeedback can be used for a variety of problems and symptoms related to brain activity. These include over- or under-arousal (e.g., anxiety, attention disorders, sleep problems, or depression), pain, trauma, and various psychological disorders. Neurofeedback has been proven effective, especially in ADHD, epilepsy, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and depression. It can also have positive effects on pain disorders such as headaches and migraines, as well as sleep problems.
Neurofeedback is considered the safest form of neuromodulation. There are no known significant or permanent side effects. In rare cases, temporary fatigue, headaches, or nausea may occur. Compared to medication or energy-based neuromodulation, neurofeedback offers an extremely favorable risk-benefit ratio as it does not involve the use of chemical substances or strong energy influences.
Costs
- Neurofeedback including 9 sessions* and introductory consultation for CHF 399.- *
- 3 additional sessions for CHF 135.- *
- Individual session for CHF 50.- *
* Introductory consultation: 30 minutes
* Sessions: Approximately 20 minutes of neurofeedback and 5 minutes for setup