What is EEG Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is direct training of the brain, which then learns to function with greater control and stability. We observe the brain in action from moment to moment. And we reward the brain for changing its own activity to more appropriate patterns.

This is a gradual learning process. It applies to any aspect of brain function that we can measure. Neurofeedback is also called EEG biofeedback because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram, or EEG.

Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly. Self-regulation is a necessary part of good brain function. Self-regulation training allows the central nervous system to function better.

The Bright Brain EEG Neurofeedback Center

The Bright Brain EEG Neurofeedback Center is a center for well being that promotes the healthy interconnectedness of mind/body in all health related issues with a direct focus on EEG neurofeedback specifically for:

  • Alcoholism/Addictions
  • ADHD
  • PTSD
  • Panic Attacks/Stress
  • Peak Performance
  • Reproductive Physiology
    • PMS
    • Fertility

How can neurofeedback help?

Neurofeedback addresses problems of brain disregulation. They include the anxiety-depression spectrum, attention deficits, behavior disorders, eating disorders, various sleep disorders, headaches and migraines, chronic pain, PMS, emotional disturbances, and addictions: Sexual, drug, alcohol, and post traumatic stress disorder.

Does neurofeedback cure these conditions?

When it comes to problems of disregulation, we would say that there is not a disease to be cured. Where disregulation is the problem, self-regulation may very well be the remedy. But again the word cure would not apply.

How is this done?

We apply electrodes to the scalp to record brainwave activity. We process the signal by computer, and we extract information about certain key brainwave frequencies. We monitor the ebb and flow of this activity, reward the person when he/she properly changes the activity level. Some frequencies we wish to promote.

Others we wish to diminish. Eventually the brainwave activity is “shaped” toward more desirable, more regulated performance. The frequencies we target, and the specific locations on the scalp where we record the brainwaves, are specific to the conditions we are trying to address, and specific to the individual.

Who can benefit from neurofeedback?

Individuals of any age can benefit from EEG training. Neurofeedback can help a variety of childhood problems including attention deficits and other forms of disruptive and disturbing behaviors, bedwetting and nightmares. Neurofeedback can assist adolescents who might struggle with anxiety and depression, or with drug and alcohol use. Neurofeedback can help maintain good brain function as we age. Peak performers also use EEG training to enhance their abilities in sports, business and the arts.

What happens if neurofeedback clients are taking medications?

With successful neurofeedback training, medications targeting brain function may no longer be needed, or they may be needed at lower dosages, as the brain takes over the role of regulating itself. It is important for clients to communicate with their prescribing physician regarding neurofeedback and medications.

If neurofeedback deals with so many conditions, why have I not heard of it before?

Neurofeedback involves “operant conditioning” of the EEG. Generally, the technique is not yet taught in most medical or psychology graduate school courses. Many professionals are therefore unaware of the power of this technique.

About Michelle Leclaire O'Neill, Ph.D., R.N., Director of the Mind Body Center

Michelle Leclaire O'Neill, Ph.D., R.N., has worked for 30 years in New York and Los Angeles helping patients to heal. She was on the staff of the Simonton Cancer Center for 10 years where she taught the "Getting Well Again Process" in family, individual and retreat settings. Dr. O'Neill has also trained physicians, nurses, and many other health care professionals from all over the world in Mind-Body Medicine and How to Get Well from Cancer. As a balance to her long-term work with cancer, Dr. O' Neill developed the Leclaire Hypnobirthing Method for Natural Childbirth and the Mind-Body Fertility Program. A mother, as well as a professional, Dr. O'Neill is a certified practitioner of Deepak Chopra's Magical Beginnings Prenatal Program. She is the author of Creative Childbirth, The Complete Leclaire Method, The Pregnancy Diary, Meditations for Pregnancy and Nine Glorious Months, a unique breakthrough in prenatal bonding. She has also written Twelve Weeks to Fertility and the Hypnofertility Bundle, in addition to the Hypnosis for Childbirth Tapes: I. Pregnancy, II. Labor, III. Music for Labor, Breastfeeding, Healing, Fertility and Cancer.

Call now to make an appointment for EEG Neurofeedback: (310) 454-0920! Individual and Couples Therapy also available.

"It’s a joy to see how effectively Dr. Leclaire O’Neill has integrated the mind/body concepts"
– O. Carl Simonton, M.D., Author of The Healing Journey