Neurofeedback Therapy: What Can You Expect? – Part 2
Neurofeedback therapy is gaining popularity for treating a myriad of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. As discussed in Part 1, this therapy aims to regulate brain activity by providing real-time feedback to the patient.
While neurofeedback therapy can deliver promising results, you must understand the benefits and risks before considering this treatment option. Here are some of them:
Benefits of Neurofeedback Therapy
1. Regulating Brain Activity
A key benefit of neurofeedback therapy is its ability to regulate brain activity. The feedback provided during the treatment can help patients regulate their brainwaves and improve overall brain function. This can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and ADHD, among other conditions.
2. Non-Invasive Treatment
Unlike other forms of therapy that require medication or surgery, neurofeedback therapy is non-invasive. The sensors attached to the scalp are not painful, and the treatment does not involve any invasive procedures, such as surgery. This makes it a safer treatment option for many patients, especially those who cannot tolerate medication.
3. Personalized Treatment
The initial assessment conducted before neurofeedback therapy allows the provider to create a personalized treatment plan for each patient. This means the therapy is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, making it more effective than a one-size-fits-all approach.
4. Improves Cognitive Functioning
Neurofeedback therapy has been shown to improve cognitive functioning, including memory, attention, and focus. This can greatly benefit patients who have experienced a cognitive decline due to aging, head injuries, or other conditions.
Risks of Neurofeedback Therapy
1. Limited Research
Although many studies have suggested the effectiveness of neurofeedback therapy, there is not enough research on its long-term impacts. As with any new treatment, it is imperative to understand the potential risks before beginning therapy.
2. Expensive Treatment
Neurofeedback therapy can be expensive, especially if insurance does not cover the costs. The number of sessions needed for the treatment’s effectiveness may differ from one person to another, so consider the financial costs prior to starting treatment.
3. Possible Side Effects
While neurofeedback therapy is generally considered safe, some possible side effects exist. These can include headaches, fatigue, and increased anxiety. However, the side effects are typically temporary and go away after the therapy is completed.
4. Not Suitable for Everyone
Neurofeedback therapy may not be suitable for everyone. People with epilepsy or a documented history of seizures may be unable to undergo neurofeedback therapy. Consult the provider to discuss any medical conditions before beginning the said therapy.
Final Thoughts
Neurofeedback therapy can be effective in treating a range of mental health conditions. The therapy works by regulating brain activity through real-time feedback provided to the patient. While this treatment has potential benefits, such as improved cognitive functioning and personalized treatment plans, there are also potential risks, such as limited research and possible side effects. Before considering neurofeedback therapy, have a thorough discussion with the provider to understand the benefits and risks of the treatment.
At Positive Reset Mental Health, we offer neurofeedback therapy as one of our mental health services. Our staff will work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans for their mental health needs. We also prioritize safety and ensure patients are thoroughly screened before beginning treatment. If you are interested in neurofeedback therapy or our other treatment options, call (732) 724-1234 to schedule a consultation.