Neurofeedback in an Integrative Medical Practice

“Restoring the Brain:  Neurofeedback as an Integrative Approach to Health” has been published.  I wrote a chapter about successfully applying neurofeedback to treat patients with conditions that are not necessarily thought of as being primarily brain based.  These included chronic pain, fibromyalgia, diabetes, asthma, and gastrointestinal problems, as well as traumatic brain injury, seizure disorder, autism, ADD/ADHD, and headache.  It was an honor to participate in the effort that produced such a fine book.  For those who care to find out more about the history, theoretical underpinnings, and application of neurofeedback, “Restoring the Brain” is an excellent resource.

https://www.crcpress.com/Restoring-the-Brain-Neurofeedback-as-an-Integrative-Approach-to-Health/Kirk/9781482258776

Efficacy of Brain Training

As a longterm neurofeedback practitioner, it is frustrating to see articles like this one in the New York Times Magazine, http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/26/magazine/can-video-games-fend-off-mental-decline.html?smid=fb-share.

Neurofeedback is here and more widely available than ever. While it is important to keep refining our techniques and moving ahead with complementary techniques, the very existence of neurofeedback as an efficacious way to neuroregulation and improved brain health and function is totally missed.

We must also avoid relying solely on technology as “the answer” for promoting good brain health. The human component is essential for most people. The Othmer technique of neurofeedback includes that important person-to-person interaction that can make every difference in the response to treatment.