Is caring for your autistic child leaving you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or drained? Have you tried traditional therapy or medication but are unsatisfied with the results? Are you looking for an alternative that will treat the root issue, instead of merely managing symptoms?
Although we may be unable to cure the underlying cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder, we can harness the neuroplasticity of the brain to build new neural pathways. Neurofeedback can help children and adults with autism or Asperger’s improve their lives in meaningful and lasting ways.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a group of disorders including autism and Asperger’s. Common symptoms include:
- Problems with social interaction and communication (including sharing emotions and sharing interests)
- Difficulty with non-verbal communication (including maintaining eye contact and reading body language)
- Repetitive motions or speech patterns
- Rigid adherence to certain behaviors and routines
- Fixated interests
Traditional treatment for ASD
Treatment options for ASD are generally limited to behavioral therapy and medication. Traditional therapy focuses on correcting problematic behaviors, through reward and punishment. With this therapeutic method, the behavior scenarios are explicitly taught and practiced.
Most people are unaware that neurofeedback could also be an alternative option to help improve some of the symptoms associated with autism, which could lead to increased regulation and overall functioning. While behavioral therapy helps in training an individual to respond more appropriately, Neurofeedback can improve the functioning of the underlying brain mechanisms. Neurofeedback can also be combined with behavioral therapy, making behavioral therapy even more effective.
Neurofeedback for ASD
Neurofeedback works directly with the brain to unlock your child’s potential to interact differently with the world.
The goal of all Neurofeedback is to transform an unhealthy brainwave pattern into a normal, healthy, organized pattern. When this happens, the brain becomes more stable and is able to operate optimally and efficiently.
Before treatment, a brain map is conducted to help see which frequencies and area(s) of the brain are most affected and to help determine the treatment protocol. At the beginning of each session, the therapist places two electrodes on the client’s head and then starts up the brain training software. This might sound a bit intimidating, but, actually, it is quite relaxing and enjoyable; the client gets to sit back and watch a show or movie of interest while the non-invasive training takes place. Gradually with each session, unhealthy or abnormal brainwaves are transformed into a normal, healthy, and organized pattern.
Neurofeedback could help enhance traditional behavioral therapy or could be used as a stand-alone treatment if a child maybe is not severe enough or does not qualify for behavioral therapy.
What symptoms can Neurofeedback help alleviate?
Neurofeedback can lead to the following improvements.
- Fewer emotional outbursts
- Better sleep at night
- More cooperation in school and at home
- Less anxious and hyperactive tendencies
- Improved attention span
- Improved communication
Reach out today
You don’t have to struggle alone. To find out more about how Neurofeedback can help your child with ASD or schedule an appointment in Los Angeles with Jennifer Willemsen, MA, LMFT, get in touch today. You can reach out by phone or by filling out the contact form.
