Neurofeedback is a process by which we use various devices to gently guide your brain into optimal functioning. During a neurofeedback session, your brain activity is monitored, and you are rewarded as your brain achieves its optimal state. Over time, your brain gradually learns to operate in its ideal state to respond appropriately to different environments.

Neurofeedback training takes place in our Cambridge, MA office for clients in the Boston area. Remote Training is also available.

EEG Neurofeedback

The most common form of neurofeedback utilizes a device called an electroencephalogram (EEG). Using sensors attached non-invasively to the surface of the scalp, the EEG measures your brain's activity through a computer and displays it on a monitor. The computer rewards you via the movement of images on the computer screen and a series of tones as your brain achieves the desired goal. Neurofeedback uses a form of unconcious learning called operant conditioning. The client can simply relax to achieve the desired state. Because the brain is organized such that different regions correspond to specific functions, the sensors can be moved to different points on the skull over the brain to address specific symptoms.

NeuroField

The NeuroField technology incorporates very low intensity, pulsed electromagnetic field (pEMF) stimulation, transcranial direct current and alternating current stimulation (tDCS/tACS), heart rate variability (HRV) and electroencephalography (EEG) all in one biofeedback system.  The NeuroField X3000 is a four channel frequency generator that can generate pEMF frequencies from 0.31-300,000 Hz.

The pEMF output ranges from 1-50 microtesla. NeuroField low intensity pEMF is 10,000,000 times weaker than traditional rTMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) which was approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of depression.

The NeuroField X3000 Plus is FDA 510K exempt registered.
The tDCS/tACS is a single channel transcranial stimulation device, capable of generating frequencies from 0.001-1,000 Hz. The maximum output power is limited to 2.5mA, within the NIH maximum recommended for transcranial direct current stimulation.  

The NeuroField Q20 EEG is a DC coupled, 19 channel EEG amplifier. The Q20 is sharp, clean EEG that has can used with the X3000 device to measure EEG in between pEMF stimulation utilizing the real time z-score procedure in the NeuroField software platform. The Q20 has also been integrated in the Neuroguide 19 channel LORETA and Surface neurofeedback z-score platform. In this way the Q20 is truly a versatile EEG amplifier that combines pEMF, tDCS/tACS and z-score neurofeedback technologies.  NeuroField has evolved into the first system that measures physiological responses to pEMF or tDCS/tACS through EEG and HRV. Furthermore, NeuroField stimulation therapy uses norm referenced, z-score, data to guide the brain to a regulated, normative state.

As a result of these innovations,  NeuroField brings the science of low intensity pEMF into the clinical setting.

NeuroField also includes has 19 channel Z-Score thresholding. The z-score, norm referenced database from Neuroguide has been added to the NeuroField thresholding system. Z-score’s are calculated in real time after pEMF or tDCS/tACS stimulation is given to determine which frequency guides the brain to the normative range. NeuroField EEG Click to view larger  NeuroField EEG measures changes in the brain in response to the NeuroField pEMF stimulation. EEG changes are measured in real time and matched against the user settings created in the NeuroField thresholding system. Specific amplitude and frequency changes can be measured for the purpose of guiding the brain so that it can function more effectively. HRV Measurement Click to view larger  NeuroField HRV measures heart rate variability in response to the NeuroField pEMF stimulation using Nogier frequencies.

Hemoencephalography (HEG)

The brain requires more oxygen than any other part of the body. HEG uses a headband that contains a sensor to detect the amount of oxygenated blood flow in the region under the sensor. The computer gives you positive feedback for increasing blood flow to that region of the brain.

There are Neurofeedback protocols for a variety of presenting conditions. They include:

Self-regulation training allows the central nervous system to perform more efficiently. Neurofeedback is not unlike a “tune-up” for the brain.

In the case of organic brain disorders, it can only be a matter of getting the brain to function better rather than of curing the condition. When it comes to problems of disregulation, we would say that there is no disease to be cured. Self-regulation training may very well be the remedy. However, the word “cure” would not apply.

With successful Neurofeedback training, medications targeting brain function may no longer be needed, or, as the brain takes over the role of self-regulation, medication may be required at lower dosages.

Many studies have reported positive results after Neurofeedback training. In some cases like ADD/ADHD, Neurofeedback has proven to be an effective alternative to drug therapies such as Ritalin. With other conditions, the client may see partial to complete relief from symptoms, although results will vary based on individual cases. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding Neurofeedback and medications.