Is Neurofeedback Safe?
Yes! Some would argue that neurofeedback therapy is a much safer option than medication due to few the few side effects neurofeedback has and longevity of positive results clients see.
While medication alters the amounts of targeted neurotransmitters in the brain, often in ways that negatively impact other parts of the body such as your sex drive, skin, weight, etc…neurofeedback may only offer slight agitation that fades off in 24 hours or a minor headache.
Neurofeedback (which differs from biofeedback), teaches the brain to self regulate over time. Your brain has electrical activity (which is related to blood flow, hormone production, neuronal connections - basically, everything) and the way in which the electrical impulses continually fire can affect the way you feel.
Neurofeedback gently teaches these electrical signals to work out of “stuck” patterns that no longer serve you (think historical trauma) and instead work into more positive patterns of self regulation.
Your brain and body are designed to self regulate. Neurofeedback takes the complexity of your brain and teaches it to work more efficiently on it’s own. There is no inputting of information, taking a substance to alter activity (hello, medication) which can have some less than desirable side effects.
Is Neurofeedback Safe? Common Fears Debunked
We get it, working on the brain can be scary! We’re here to let you know that neurofeedback therapy is both safe and effective.
As practitioners in the field, we commonly hear… “Are you inputting data into my brain?” or “Will neurofeedback change my personality?” Nope and nope!
We are not inputting anything into the brain. Neurofeedback therapy offers a stimulus, such as a sound like a “ding” in response to your brain doing what we need it to do on it’s own. Your brain is designed to like stimulus, therefore it realizes if it continues to self regulate it will receive more positive feedback. No data is being inputted, just stimulus offered.
To further soothe your worries, your personality will not change. Neurofeedback offers your brain and nervous system a chance to calm down so that self regulation tactics associated with calming effects can take place. Essentially, your brain is being taken out of a fight or flight pattern, a drowsy pattern or whatever else is learned from your qEEG brain Map so it can learn it’s own healthy level of baseline functioning that is unique to you.
Understanding the Research on the Common Question: Is Neurofeedback Safe?
A meta-analysis of 20 studies published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that neurofeedback therapy was “efficacious and specific in treating ADHD symptoms” and that it had no adverse effects or side-effects. Another study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that neurofeedback therapy was “a safe and effective treatment for children with ADHD.”
As someone who struggles with mental health issues, the idea of going through a therapy that involves brain stimulation may seem intimidating or even frightening. However, numerous studies have shown that neurofeedback therapy is indeed a safe treatment method. A review of neurofeedback studies published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that no significant adverse events were reported across the 29 studies reviewed.
If you are interested in reading more on if neurofeedback is safe, you can browse Connected Brain Counseling's speciality pages online! They cite research based on disorder for you to review how neurofeedback is effective and safe based on disorder.
Neurofeedback Practioners Who Make You Feel Safe in Denver
Neurofeedback is an amazing form of therapy that uses advanced technology to train the brain to work better. As with any medical or therapeutic intervention, it's essential to feel safe and comfortable with your neurofeedback practitioner.
Here are some tips on how neurofeedback practitioners can make you feel safe:
1. Build a strong rapport: Practitioners should establish an open, trusting relationship with their clients from the first session. They should show empathy and understanding, and create a non-judgmental atmosphere where clients can share their thoughts and emotions without feeling judged.
2. Communicate clearly: It's important that practitioners communicate clearly about the treatment process, what to expect, and what each session will entail. Clients should feel free to ask questions and clarify anything that is unclear.
3. Explain the technology: The neurofeedback practitioner should take the time to explain the technology they use, what it measures, and how it works. Clients should feel comfortable with the process and understand what's happening.
4. Monitor clients: Practitioners should monitor their clients' physical and emotional states throughout the session to ensure they feel safe and comfortable. They should make adjustments if needed, such as lowering the volume or frequency of the feedback.
5. Offer feedback and support: Throughout the treatment process, the neurofeedback practitioner should offer positive feedback and support to clients. They should celebrate their successes, offer encouragement, and address any concerns or questions that may arise.
By following these guidelines, neurofeedback practitioners can create a safe, supportive, and comfortable environment for their clients. Clients will be able to focus on the treatment process and get the most out of their therapy.
How to Find A Neurofeedback Practitioner in Denver
At Connected Brain Counseling, you can find a qualified and experienced neurofeedback therapist who can guide you through the process. To find the right neurofeedback therapist for you, you can start by checking their website and Psychology Today profiles to learn more about their credentials and experience.
You can also read reviews from previous clients to get a sense of their approach and style. It’s important to find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and who has experience treating your specific issue. However, when it comes to mental health - many clients are hesitant to leave reviews due to confidentiality reasons. Therefore, we encourage you to schedule a consultation rather than relying on reviews alone to find the right neurofeedback therpist for you.
Overall, neurofeedback therapy is a safe and effective way to treat a wide range of brain-related issues. With the right therapist, you can learn to regulate your own brain activity and live a happier, healthier life. So if you’re in Denver, be sure to check out Connected Brain Counseling for top-notch neurofeedback therapy.