What is Direct Neurofeedback Therapy?
Direct Neurofeedback (DNF) utilizes extremely low-strength electromagnetic currents to treat a wide variety of mental health conditions. Using small sensors gently placed at one’s temples, DNF sends a tiny, imperceptible signal to the brain that causes a slight fluctuation in brain waves. This little fluctuation allows the brain to reorganize its stuck neural patterns and re-establish healthy ones. The effects of Neurofeedback are powerful and lasting, as it treats the root causes of your symptoms, rather than the symptoms themselves.
There are different kinds of Neurofeedback Therapy. Choose with confidence.
Just like Googling to find a counsellor in your area, a general search on Neurofeedback will lead you to a wealth of content to sift through. How do you know if this treatment is right for you?
First, you might want to learn more about it— what it is, how it works, and most importantly if and how it may help with your specific condition. Understanding the technology is an important piece of choosing this therapy, as is feeling comfortable with the counsellor’s approach and commitment to working with you towards your goals. My practice lends equal priority to both of these considerations.
The technology:
The majority of the Neurofeedback information readily available online is about traditional EEG-based ‘brain training’ which has been in use for over 50 years. There are in fact several different brands of Neurofeedback technology and treatment approaches that work in different ways, with varying results. As with other forms of technology, Neurofeedback systems have evolved significantly over time due to extensive research and development. It is important to learn about the differences and make an informed choice as to which type of Neurofeedback technology and therapeutic approach may work best for you. The Mind-Brain Training Institute and Stone Mountain Centre are excellent places to seek more detailed information on DNF. Your initial research will likely lead you to information on Traditional EEG as well as the LENS system.
My approach to Neurofeedback improves upon the LENS system to offer better, faster results for people who identify as more sensitive. It is gentler, yet paradoxically more powerful than Traditional EEG or LENS systems in that it communicates with the whole brain directly – locating exactly what it needs, where it needs it. This holistic approach is less likely to overstimulate clients – an important consideration, especially when dealing with concussed or traumatized brains.
I completed comprehensive training and study in Neurofeedback, including traditional and LENS approaches, before certifying in DNF, and use the original FDA approved and clinically studied DNF system and software.
Brighteyes' approach:
My practice utilizes Direct Neurofeedback as one of several tools to help you achieve your healing and mental health goals. As a clinically trained social worker, I approach each client relationally and believe that treating the whole person is critical to fostering wellness. This commitment to seeking a nuanced understanding of each client, their unique circumstance and individual priorities, sets me apart from other Neurofeedback practitioners who may focus primarily on the technical aspects of a session or may not be clinically trained or certified mental health therapists. Years of education and practice have taught me that DNF is not ‘one size fits all’ and requires a high level of skilled application to achieve the most therapeutic results.
It is important to me to structure my practice in a way that makes this treatment effective and accessible to as many people as possible. With this in mind, I offer flexible rates, family packages (for parents, children, or siblings), and the option to incorporate DNF into a client’s existing counselling plan. Because my system is portable, I am also able to offer outreach to clients’ homes or businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
First, we’ll cleanse the sites on your forehead, so it’s ready to connect with the sensors. Next, four tiny sensors are placed on your scalp. These record your brainwaves, which I can then “read” through the software on my computer, and make adjustments to the treatment as needed. Small “signals” are sent back to the brain through the sensors, to re-establish healthy neural patterns.
Once you’re hooked up to the system, there’s really nothing you have to do except sit back and relax. You won’t feel the sensors sending or receiving signals. Many clients find these sessions calming.
You may choose to pair a DNF session with a counselling session. Either way, I’ll be there to support you through the length of the treatment.
Everyone (kids too!) But particularly those living with:
- brain injury (TBI, concussion), including brain fog, disorientation, lack of clarity, focus or attention, emotional control
- ADD and ADHD, or other causes of poor concentration and focus
- emotional regulation and control
- anxiety, depression and other mental health
- poor sleep
headaches, including migraine, cluster, and tension - autism spectrum, including Asperger’s Syndrome
- chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
- fibromyalgia and lymes
- epilepsy / seizures
- PTSD/PTSS (post-traumatic stress disorder/spectrum)
- symptoms similar to alzheimer’s
- facial tics
- optimal performance and ‘anti-aging’
After your first few treatments, you may notice improvements for a few hours or a few days at a time. As you continue with treatment, you will notice these improvements last for longer periods. Typically it takes about 15 to 20 sessions before things start to really stick, but once they are stuck they are not going anywhere! Further treatment is often unnecessary, though occasionally someone needs a “booster” — and we can help with that!
The strength of this signal is far less than a cell phone. In fact, it’s 1000 times weaker than simply holding a AA battery against your forehead! You won’t feel a thing.
Sessions can be covered if your insurance provider reimburses for sessions with a Registered Social Worker.
Yes! A large part of my practice is devoted to children, adolescents and their families.
Most people notice an initial change within the first three sessions, though sometimes it takes a little longer. On average, it takes 15-20 sessions to resolve an issue. The effects are typically lasting, and most patients do not require further treatment. 99% of clients experience positive effects after each and every session.