Creating professional neurofeedback training starts with one step that is more important than all others–working with a licensed doctor. This needs to be mentioned as the proliferation of DIY neurofeedback, biofeedback, and other ‘snake oil’ types of ‘therapy’ are springing up all over the internet. Licensed doctors and their teams are the only ones able to create individualized training programs tailored specifically to help individuals.

With that said, let’s take a look at the general steps doctors use when they create neurofeedback training programs.

Individualized Training Programs

Personalized brain training plans for neurofeedback programs are developed through a collaborative and individualized approach, with careful consideration of the individual’s unique characteristics, goals, and treatment needs. The involvement of a certified neuropsychologist or qualified healthcare professional ensures that the training plan is tailored to optimize the effectiveness and safety of neurofeedback training for the individual.

Individual Assessments

The process begins with an initial assessment conducted by a certified neuropsychologist or another qualified healthcare professional. This assessment may include clinical interviews, standardized neuropsychological testing, behavioral observations, and a review of medical history and relevant neuroimaging data (if available). The assessment aims to identify the individual’s strengths, weaknesses, cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, and specific symptoms or difficulties.

Personal Goals

The neuropsychologist works with the individual to establish personalized goals for neurofeedback training. These goals may include improving attention and concentration, reducing anxiety or depression symptoms, enhancing cognitive function, or addressing specific neurological conditions such as ADHD or traumatic brain injury. Goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Training Development

Based on the assessment findings, the neuropsychologist selects neurofeedback protocols that are tailored to target the individual’s specific cognitive or emotional difficulties. Neurofeedback protocols typically involve training specific brainwave frequencies or patterns associated with the individual’s symptoms or goals. For example, protocols may target alpha, theta, beta, or delta brainwave frequencies, depending on the desired outcomes (e.g., improved attention, relaxation, or emotional regulation).

Scheduling

The neuropsychologist develops a training schedule and determines the duration of the neurofeedback program based on the individual’s goals, availability, and treatment needs. Neurofeedback training sessions are typically conducted regularly over a period of weeks to months to achieve optimal results. The frequency and duration of sessions may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual response to training.

Adjustments

Throughout the neurofeedback training program, the individual receives real-time feedback on their brainwave activity through visual or auditory cues. The neuropsychologist monitors the individual’s progress and adjusts the training protocols as needed based on objective measures of brainwave activity and subjective reports of symptom improvement. Feedback may also be provided to help the individual learn to self-regulate their brainwave patterns outside of the training sessions.

Augmentation (if Necessary)

Neurofeedback training may be integrated with other evidence-based interventions as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, medication management, lifestyle modifications, and supportive counseling. The neuropsychologist coordinates care and ensures that neurofeedback training complements other interventions effectively.

Follow-Ups

At the conclusion of the neurofeedback training program, the neuropsychologist evaluates the individual’s progress and outcomes based on objective measures, standardized assessments, and subjective reports. Follow-up sessions may be scheduled to monitor long-term effects and provide ongoing support as needed. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be made based on the individual’s response to training and evolving treatment goals.

Neurofeedback Training at NHA

Here at Neurohealth Associates, we specialize in Neurofeedback training. Neurofeedback may be helpful for training your mind, especially if you are unsure about putting yourself or your child on medication. This easy, noninvasive training can painlessly improve your mental health condition and outlook on life. Schedule a consultation with NeuroHealth Associates today and find out how we can help you.