Why have I not heard of it before?
Although EEG biofeedback has been used for several years in private clinics in the United States, it is a relatively new therapy in Europe. Clinicians are now studying and refining the technique with promising results for a number of conditions. I fully expect the profile of EEG Biofeedback to increase over the coming years, as its clinical effectiveness becomes apparent.
How long does it take and are improvements permanent?
As with all health/medical matters outcomes and responses vary from person to person and there is no way to predict the exact number of sessions needed to produce satisfactory improvement. However, the severity and duration of the symptoms may give some indication of time scale.
Generally some improvement is seen within 10-20 sessions (occasionally less with straightforward problems).
Regardless of the rate of progress the goal is to see a reduction of symptoms over time.
Research has shown that to be effective the sessions need to be frequent (minimum of once a week).
Once learning/improvement is consolidated the benefit is usually long term.
Are there any side effects?
Since there is no direct external input and the brain is simply monitoring itself there are no known side effects if conducted under professional guidance.
Is there anything that might prevent me from having EEG Biofeedback treatment?
- History of epilepsy
- Co-existing marked psychological conditions e.g. Bi polar manic depression, schizophrenia, and severe anxiety.
What other factors might affect my rate of progress?
- Ongoing serious inter-personal problems or impending social upheaval.
- Lack of support/structure in patient’s life.
- Impatience &/or lack of motivation by patients.
- Excessive anger at “external” factors.
- Inability to attend appointments regularly.