Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition that is characterized by inattentiveness, impulsivity, problems with attention and focus, and hyperactivity. According to the Center of Disease Control, 11% of American children ages 4-11 are currently diagnosed with the disorder, leaving many parents with the difficult decision of how to handle their child’s symptoms. Stimulant medications are most commonly prescribed and can be very helpful for some children. Certain side-effects including cardiovascular issues, appetite suppression and decrease in body growth, as well as abuse and dependence later on, have many parents searching for more natural, holistic alternatives. Neurofeedback (aka: EEG Biofeedback or Neurotherapy) is a cutting-edge neuroscience found successful in treating ADHD/ADD, addiction, PTSD and many other brain-based disorders.
How does it work? In children with ADHD, theta (the daydreaming) brain wave shows up when the child starts to read or needs to concentrate; while in non-ADHD kids, beta (active and focused) brain waves come to help the child’s brain with the task. In each neurofeedback session, there are thousands of learning opportunities to bring forth the under-functioning waves, a skill the child will be able to access when needed. This treatment retrains and balances the brain to its optimal functioning.
What happens? The technology shows how the brain is currently functioning, areas of under-or-over functioning, and how brainwaves are being used. Small electrodes are placed on the scalp and painlessly direct stimulation to the areas pinpointed by the EEG (electroencephalogram). For certain treatments, your child watches a kind of light-show and clicks buttons upon seeing a certain color; in others, they simply lay back and relax. It has a tendency to put you in a trance-like state and leaves a feeling happy, calm and serene.
What are the risks? To date, there have been no cases of seizures, or major problems following Neurofeedback. The Chicago Tribune likens it to “meditation on steroids,” and is as safe for the brain as a deep meditation or post-vigorous workout. It won’t change personality, but it can calm down excessive tantrums, anger, and other negative symptoms.
Stephanie Garcia, Owner of Maui Family Counseling & Neurofeedback, Marriage & Family Counselor and Neurofeedback Practitioner. 808.250.1305 | mauifamilycounseling.com.
Register today for our upcoming training, ‘Neurofeedback & Addiction,’ which includes an hour-long presentation on ADHD. Held Friday, August 12th from 8:30am-5pm at the MACC; this event is open to the public and provides CEU’s to Maui professionals. Go to mauifamilycounseling.com for more information or email [email protected].
