What is EEG Neurofeedback?
EEG Neurofeedback is brain-based operant learning. Using the data we know about brain anatomy, and specialized equipment, a brain is encouraged to respond in a particular way through reinforcement or punishment. Not to worry! In the case of EEG Neurofeedback, the punishment to the brain is as simple as not being able to watch a favored show.
A typical EEG Neurofeedback session would look like an individual sitting comfortably in a chair with sensors connected to the scalp while the person watches a show of their choice from the selected offerings. While the show is playing the equipment is gathering data from the brain and channeling it through the software controlled by the clinician. The clinician selects protocols based on the presenting symptoms and localization of brain structures. In other words, the clinician will make a plan based on the individuals reported symptoms (ex: anxiety, hyperactivity, lack of social interaction, etc.), select a brain location that is most likely to effect these symptoms, and set the software to the range one would expect from the brain region. The software then encourages the brain to produce this electrical range by playing the show as a reward, and stopping the show as a punishment when the brain is not producing the requested range. The individual watches the show as the brain is punished or rewarded by the show stopping and starting. It's a bit annoying when you are trying to watch a show you enjoy and it keeps stopping. That's the point though. The brain catches on quite quickly when it's motivated to keep going and soon figures out that if it wants to watch the show it needs to respond as requested.
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It's a simple concept using sophisticated brain modeling and equipment. And, it's effective.
HEG, otherwise known as Hemoencephalography, is considered a form of Neurofeedback.
In this case, the nIR HEG equipment is measuring the degree of oxygenation in the brain tissue (rather than electricity as in traditional EEG Neurofeedback).
The nIR HEG equipment encourages increased oxygenation to the brain region being targeted. Increasing oxygenation increases the health and accessibility of the brain region, thereby improving functioning and reducing symptoms effected in these regions.
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Using infrared light, oxygen levels in the brain region are measured. The measurements are then filtered through the specific software that then encourage the user to increase blood flow and oxygenation to the targeted area.
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Despite oxygen and blood flow issues that may occur throughout the entirety of the brain, only the forehead region is targeted in nIR HEG treatment. This allows for increased blood flow and oxygenation to the prefrontal cortex which can assist in reducing symptoms related to such disorders as ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, TBI, Developmental Disorders, and Migraines which are most likely to have roots in this region.