Does Neurofeedback Work for Autism Spectrum Disorders?

Neurofeedback therapy uses instruments, usually electroencephalographs (EEGs), to measure electrical activity in the brain. This information is then “fed back” to individuals using sound, video, or game-like activities. The individual can use this to train themselves to modulate their brainwave activity. This approach is applicable to a variety of disorders that involve dysfunction in brain processes. This includes ADHD, addiction, anxiety, depression, some types of pain disorders, and autism spectrum disorders.

There are relatively few studies on the effects of neurofeedback for autism, but those which have been conducted have indicated that neurofeedback could work for many autistic individuals. Many mental health professionals who work with autistic children have provided case studies in which neurofeedback produced remarkable results. 

How Does Neurofeedback Work to Treat Autism? 

Neurofeedback therapy uses electroencephalograms (EEG machines), which detect electrical activity in the brain, to obtain information about brainwave processes. The information is then “fed back”, often using videos and sounds, to the participant who uses the information to consciously change brainwave patterns. This training becomes learned behavior; overtime, the patient will be able to self-regulate these brainwave patterns.

Autism is a complex syndrome, which is defined by abnormal integration processes in the brain. Neurofeedback takes a different approach to autism as opposed to other forms of treatment. Most methods of treating symptoms of autism have their effects on a behavioral level; however, neurofeedback addresses the problem at the source – the brain. Electrodes are placed on the patients scalp over the areas of the brain that correspond to the individual’s particular difficulties.

Autism is marked by a lack of integrative capability within the brain. Autistic brains have difficulty bringing together sensory and other forms of information. Sufferers of autism have difficulty “filtering out” irrelevant stimuli, and their brains display high levels of arousal. An example of Neurofeedback is the game, a technique where the speed or direction of an object is guided by brainwave frequencies. Over time and repetition the patients become trained to regulate their own brainwaves producing a calmer state of mind.

Autistic individuals, especially children, have difficulty identifying and coping with their emotions. An autistic child may be prone to “temper tantrums” which can last for protracted periods of time. When such neurofeedback techniques are implemented the patient is able to enter more relaxed states, thus making it easier for the sufferer to manage their emotions. Some case reports indicate that an autistic child, during the process of the neurofeedback session, may even become uncharacteristically calm. 

Does Neurofeedback Work for Autism, Without Significant Side Effects? 

Neurofeedback techniques are not known to have any side effects. Although an autistic child may at first be frightened by the novelty of the activities involved in neurofeedback therapy, practitioners report that this effect generally subsides quickly. 

So, How Well Does Neurofeedback Work for Autism? 

The benefits of neurofeedback therapy in autistic patients are not yet fully explored. However, case reports show successful outcomes in instances that neurofeedback was utilized in treating autism. Neurofeedback appears to have great potential in treating the problems that cause autistic individuals to have such great difficulties, thus improving their level of functioning. Further scientific exploration of autism in relation to this revolutionary new technique is underway. To schedule a consultation or to learn more about this safe, painless, non-invasive therapy please visit our website: www.braincoretherapy.com 

NEUROFEEDBACK FOR AUTISM