What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity to teach individuals how to regulate and control their brainwaves. It is a non-invasive, drug-free way to promote greater mental and emotional wellbeing by helping individuals learn how to regulate their own brainwave activity.
In traditional neurofeedback, sensors are placed on the scalp to detect electrical activity in the brain. This information is then processed by a computer program that analyses the data and provides feedback to the individual in the form of audio and visual cues. The individual learns to regulate their brainwave activity to achieve a desired state of mind.
What is Neuroptimal?
Neuroptimal is a specific type of neurofeedback system that uses advanced technology to provide individuals with real-time feedback on their brainwave activity. Unlike other neurofeedback systems, Neuroptimal does not target specific brainwave frequencies or try to impose specific patterns of brain activity on the individual. Instead, it relies on the brain's natural ability to self-regulate and adjust its own activity based on feedback from the environment.
How Does Neuroptimal Work?
Neuroptimal works by using sensors placed on the scalp to detect electrical activity in the brain. This information is then processed by a computer program that analyses the data and provides feedback to the individual in the form of audio and visual cues. These cues are designed to help the individual learn how to regulate their brainwave activity in a way that promotes greater mental clarity, focus, and overall wellbeing. During a Neuroptimal session, the individual wears a set of earbuds. The earbuds provide audio feedback based on the individual's brainwave activity. If the brainwave activity is not optimal, the audio feedback will change to alert the individual. This prompts the brain to adjust its own activity in a way that promotes greater mental clarity, focus, and overall wellbeing.
What are the Benefits of Neuroptimal?
One of the main benefits of Neuroptimal is that it is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to mental health. It does not require medication, which can have side effects and may not be effective for everyone. Neuroptimal is also personalized to each individual, based on their own brainwave activity. This means that the feedback is tailored to the individual's specific needs and goals.
For individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Neuroptimal can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and social isolation. It can also improve cognitive function and emotional regulation. By providing real-time feedback on brainwave activity, Neuroptimal helps individuals learn how to regulate their own brain activity and reduce the negative impact of sensory overload and anxiety.
A study published in the Journal of Neurotherapy1 found that neurofeedback improved executive function and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in children with ASD. A further study published in the International Journal of Psychophysiology2 found that neurofeedback reduced symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity in children with ASD.
While Neuroptimal has shown promise in treating ASD, it is important to note that it is not a cure and should be used in conjunction with other therapies and interventions such as ABA. It is also important to work with a trained professional who can properly administer the treatment and monitor progress.
To find out more about Neuroptimal and how Littlefoot Developmental Services can help your child regulate better, contact us for a free consultation.
Written by Sharanya Rajendran
1 Neurofeedback and Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy for Children with Autism: A Randomized Controlled Trial by Coben, Padolsky, and Storzbach (2010).
2 Effect of Neurofeedback Training on the Neural Substrates of Executive Functioning in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study by Kouijzer et al. (2013).