Neurofeedback is receiving more attention these days as a treatment for mental health issues because it is a safe, non-invasive way to help your brain learn how to regulate itself for better mental health and performance. While many providers offer neurofeedback services, if you are looking for help with a mental health condition, you should make sure that any neurofeedback provider is a highly trained and Board Certified Neurofeedback Provider (BCN) who will work with you to tailor your treatment to your needs. If you are engaging in talk therapy, your Neurofeedback provider should be willing to coordinate services with your therapist.
If you are interested in learning more about neurofeedback for yourself or a loved one, please take a minute to review the following list of things to look for when selecting a neurofeedback provider.
- Certification: First and foremost, the provider should be certified by the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance or BCIA. You can find a certified practitioner at their web site: https://www.bcia.org/. This certification indicates that the provider has received training providing a high standard of care within a clinical practice environment. Look for providers who are designated as Board Certified in Neurofeedback.
- Experienced Mental Health Provider: When considering neurofeedback as a treatment for mental health issues, especially regarding trauma, it is important that your provider be a trained mental health professional who is licensed to practice in your state.
- Knowledgeable about all approaches: The provider should be knowledgeable about the different neurofeedback practices and equipment. Some examples are Hemoencephalography (HEG) Neurofeedback, S-Loreta, Z-score, Infra Slow Frequency, Lens, and Amplitude neurofeedback training. Neurofeedback is not a one size fits all process. The provider should be willing and able to discuss the different methods and what may be best for the individual.
- Expert Analysis: The provider should be able to analyze neurofeedback brainwave assessments and clearly explain what the data shows at the start of treatment. The provider should work with the individual to adjust the treatment as needed to maximize the therapeutic benefits of neurofeedback.
- Availability: When offering home training, the provider should talk with the individual on a regular basis to check status and monitor progress. I believe in weekly check-ins to monitor progress.
- Continuous Training: The field of neurofeedback is constantly evolving. No matter how experienced they are, your provider should be continually updating their knowledge of the field. Ask them about their recent continuing education and training efforts.
Residents of DC, MD, VA and PA can learn more about neurofeedback and schedule a consultation with Mind Body Connections at https://www.mbcllchealth.com .
