Written by Eileen Borski, Therapist
Eileen Borski is a therapist who specializes in providing brain-based care to individuals to address roadblocks in career, academics, sports, creativity and relationships. Her approach includes techniques that influence brain patterns using EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and neurofeedback.
A common question I receive daily is, "How does neurofeedback work?" To answer that effectively, I need to provide a few more details. However, you will be glad you accepted the journey to explore this topic today, as neurofeedback offers a pathway to improvement in so many areas of life, including peak performance, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and more. However, before I directly answer the question, "How does neurofeedback work?" I want to review a brief history of neurofeedback.
The history of neurofeedback
First, understanding the history of how neurofeedback evolved helps set the stage for the timeline of its development. Neurofeedback emerged in the 1950s and early 1960s as an intervention to improve brain function. Later, in the 1970s, research was conducted to understand the impact of neurofeedback on persons experiencing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
The natural next question is, "Why did the interest in neurofeedback emerge in the 1950’-1970’s?" The science emerged in the early 1900s when Korbinian Brodmann published "Localisation in the Cerebral Cortex ." In this book, Brodmann outlines the 47 functional brain areas of the cortex by their differing cytoarchitecture, or the arrangement of brain cells and the function of the identified brain cells. After Brodmann identified the regions of the brain, science moved forward, building an understanding of how to measure the activity of the various cortexes of the brain and then understand how to influence the brain to develop various improved brain states of being.
How does neurofeedback work?
Now that we have a basic understanding of how the underlying scientific tools emerged that empowered the development of neurofeedback, we can address the main question, "How does neurofeedback work?" Quite simply, when someone engages in a neurofeedback session, the person's brain is being trained in traditional neurofeedback, or untrained, in more modern neurofeedback, by monitoring the brain's electrical signals and stimulating the brain and establishing different brain states.
Moreover, the neurofeedback process includes leads connected to the head and a computer loaded with specialty software. Traditionally, the computer program analyzes the patient's brain activity and sends a corresponding signal to an associated television or computer game that will offer rewards such as a brighter screen or some other type of positively perceived reward. Furthermore, with more modern iterations of neurofeedback systems, the patient's brain is not rewarded to manage brain development. The microcurrent bathes the brain based on the concept of hormesis. In particular, the idea of hormesis promotes the understanding that lower doses encourage positive change and is a commonly understood concept throughout the science of life. A widely understood and well-researched example of hormesis is that restricted caloric intake leads to a longer life. The remainder of the article will focus on this more modern, hormesis-based neurofeedback, IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback.
What is IASIS microcurrent neurofeedback?
In recent years, the field of neurofeedback has seen groundbreaking advancements, offering new hope for individuals dealing with a myriad of mental health problems. One of the most promising developments in this domain is IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN). Unlike traditional neurofeedback methods, IASIS MCN harnesses the power of ultra-low microcurrents to facilitate lasting changes in brain function, offering a noninvasive, drug-free approach to improving mental health and cognitive performance.
The science behind IASIS microcurrent neurofeedback
IASIS MCN is grounded in the principle of neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. This method introduces a very low-intensity electrical current, measured in picometres, into the brain. This current is so minimal that it doesn't force the brain to do anything; instead, it gently nudges the brain toward a healthier functioning state.
The microcurrent interacts with the brain at the cellular level, temporarily disorganizing dysfunctional patterns of brainwave activity. This disorganization prompts the brain to "reset" itself, leading to improved neural function. The brain's natural tendency to self-correct is enhanced, allowing individuals to break free from entrenched patterns contributing to various mental health conditions.
Applications and effectiveness
IASIS MCN has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating a wide array of conditions, including:
Anxiety and depression: By helping the brain to establish new, healthier neural pathways, IASIS MCN can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Many patients report feeling calmer and more centered after just a few sessions.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Individuals with PTSD often experience persistent and disruptive thoughts, flashbacks, and hyperarousal. IASIS MCN helps the brain to 'unlearn' these maladaptive responses, providing relief from PTSD symptoms.
Chronic Pain: Neurofeedback addresses chronic pain conditions by altering the brain's response to pain signals; IASIS MCN can reduce the intensity and frequency of pain episodes.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): For those recovering from a TBI, IASIS MCN can accelerate the recovery process by encouraging the brain to restore improved function more effectively.
Sleep Disorders: Another significant benefit reported by IASIS MCN users is improved sleep quality. The treatment helps regulate sleep patterns, leading to more restorative rest.
The procedure
IASIS MCN sessions are straightforward and typically last around 30 minutes. During the session, an EEG device is connected to the patient's head and monitors brain activity. A small microcurrent is applied through electrodes placed on the scalp. The client may experience mild warmth or tingling, but the procedure is noninvasive and painless.
Most clients start noticing positive changes after the first few sessions. These changes can initially be subtle, such as improved mood or better sleep, but they tend to accumulate over time. A typical course of treatment involves 15-25 sessions, depending on the individual's condition and response to therapy. Keep in mind that some achieve their goal with fewer sessions, and some patients need more sessions due to the uniqueness of each patient.
Safety and side effects
One of the significant advantages of IASIS MCN is its safety profile. The microcurrent used in the treatment is significantly lower than the electrical stimulation used in other neurofeedback or brain stimulation therapies. As a result, side effects are minimal and typically transient, including mild fatigue or headache, which usually resolve shortly after the session. These facts should give you confidence in the safety and comfort of the treatment.
Summary
IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback represents a significant leap forward in neurofeedback and brain health. Its ability to facilitate lasting changes in brain function without the need for pharmaceuticals is an attractive option for individuals seeking alternative treatments for mental health conditions.
As research expands our understanding of neuroplasticity and brain function, IASIS MCN's potential applications will likely grow. For now, it stands as a non-medication and evidence-based approach for those who have struggled with traditional treatment methods, offering a path to recovery and improved well-being through the power of gentle, noninvasive brain stimulation.
This innovative therapy isn't just a preview of the future; it's already making a significant impact by enhancing your brain's natural ability to promote relaxation, support overall well-being, and encourage self-healing.
Start your neurofeedback journey today
Take the first step towards understanding how IASIS MCN can support your brain and mental health goals by checking out the benefits of microcurrent neurofeedback on my website. If you're ready to embark on a journey of neurofeedback, book a free 15-minute consultation to discuss your goals. Eileen provides IASIS Microcurrent Neurofeedback in Montgomery, TX.
Read more from Eileen Borski
Eileen Borski, Therapist
Eileen Borski is a highly-specialized mental health provider focused on modern, evidenced based interventions to improve brain function. The neurocounseling techniques focus on resetting overstimulated areas of the brain and promoting metabolic clearance in the brain. She is the owner and founder of Authentic Brain Solutions providing licensed professional mental health care in person in Montgomery, Texas and virtually in Texas, Florida, South Carolina and New Hampshire.
