Predictors of Neurofeedback Outcomes Following qEEG Individualized Protocols for Anxiety

Abstract

In this retrospective study, researchers examined effects of quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG), individualized neurofeedback treatment protocols for anxiety. The present study includes 52 clients with 53.8% (n = 28) self-reporting as male and included two time points (pre and post). Secondary analyses utilized a subset of client data (n = 21) with measurements from three time points (pre, post, and follow-up). All clients completed qEEG and self-report assessments. Clients agreed to attend a minimum of 15 biweekly sessions, for one academic semester. Findings from regression analyses revealed three predictors of posttreatment outcomes. In addition, analysis of a subsample of data assessed at three time points revealed statistically significant improvement from pre to post and sustained outcomes from post to follow-up. We discuss limitations and implications for future research.

Neurofeedback Rehabilitation Reduces Anxiety in Methamphetamine Abusers

“…Several studies, such as Gregory et al (2020) have suggested that the most active and transformative properties of neurofeedback protocols teach substance abuse patients to intentionally intensify the amplitude and coherent interaction of their alpha and theta brainwave frequencies. The alpha-theta neurofeedback mechanism may allow participants to better tolerate stress, anxiety, and anxiety-provoking situations, especially during initial recovery periods.…”

“…The protocol consisted of 18 sessions and two sessions per week, with each session lasting 25-30 minutes. The neurofeedback rehabilitation protocols in each session were based on SMR, Cz area (central cortex) rehabilitation (Scott et al, 2005), and Pz area (parietal cortex) alpha-theta (Gregory et al, 2020), performed in 20 min using the ProComp2 system (Thought Technology Ltd, Montreal, Canada; Scott et al, 2005).…”

“…Alpha brainwaves of frequency 8-12 Hz are associated with feelings of well-being (Gruzelier et al, 2014;Imperatori et al, 2017). Theta brainwaves of frequency 4-7 Hz have been associated with presleep state or daydreaming, including traumatic anxiety-provoking events with spontaneous hypnagogic imagery and/or abreaction (Gregory et al, 2020;Ticci et al, 2019). Alpha-theta rehabilitation is primarily designed to increase alpha and theta waves.…”

Trauma-Informed Neurofeedback for Law Enforcement Occupational and Organizational Stress

“…Of particular interest for this population, scholars have identified a positive trend in improving PTSD indicators, anxiety, and related symptoms by training alpha brainwave activity (e.g., Gregory et al, 2020;Mennella et al, 2017;Wang et al, 2019). Professionals correlate alpha oscillations with "internal reflection, brain synchrony, and peak performance," (Demos, 2019, p. 25) as well as "meditation or a deep sense of inner calm" (p. 215).…”

Proceedings of the 2021 ISNR Annual Conference (Virtual): Poster Presentations

“…University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA Neurofeedback, or electroencephalography (EEG) biofeedback, is a therapeutic approach that integrates a client's brainwave activity to enhance and empower their specific, individualized growth through self-regulation (Demos, 2005). This modality continues to be applied to decreasing or alleviating symptoms associated with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; Gregory et al, 2020;Mennella et al, 2017;Romero et al, 2020). Traditionally, clinicians conduct neurofeedback services in person.…”