Designed to act directly on the nervous system, dynamic neurofeedback would train the brain to optimize its functioning and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Neurofeedback emerged in the 70s. It is a non-invasive method based on the activity of the nervous system and measured by electroencephalography. Sensors positioned at the ears and scalp analyze and record in real time, 256 times per second, the signals emitted by the electrical activity of the brain.

How does a dynamic neurofeedback session take place?

To conduct this brain training, the NeurOptimal® dynamic neurofeedback software, developed by Dr. Valdeane Brown and Dr. Susan Cheshire, offers to train the brain by playing music or a movie to the patient. The amplitudes of variations in brain activity are materialized by a micro-interruption of the auditory stimulus.

The brain is then unconsciously invited to modify its functioning and to self-regulate itself to return to a more peaceful mental state. The method works “like a mirror, details on her website Sophie Barroukel, dynamic neurofeedback practitioner in Paris. Imagine that you haven’t seen yourself in a mirror for a long time. Once in front of your reflection, you naturally start to straighten up, to re-style your hair… It is exactly the same thing for your central nervous system. NeurOptimal® sends feedback in the form of information that allows the brain to better self-regulate. ”

Gentle and non-invasive method, dynamic neurofeedback is for everyone, with no age limit.

It may in particular be indicated for:

• Concentration disorders;
• Lack of creativity and motivation;
• Anxiety and stress;
• Language disorders;
• Lack of self-confidence;
• Sleep disorders;
• Irritability.

The method can also be tried out by athletes wishing to strengthen their mental performance.

Initially, two to three weekly sessions are recommended for two weeks before subsequently performing so-called “maintenance” sessions. They will consolidate the benefits obtained through dynamic neurofeedback. The pace is obviously adaptable according to the availability and needs of each.

It will take an average of 10 sessions to see long-term results. Data which again vary depending on the patients and their problems.

The sensors are simply placed on the skull to measure brain activity. The method is non-invasive, painless and does not require any particular physical or mental effort.

Depression is a disease that requires the monitoring of a health professional and in some cases the establishment of drug treatment. Dynamic neurofeedback is not a treatment for depression, but can be an effective crutch to rely on to ease symptoms of depression.

During a depressive episode or an anxiety syndrome, “the brain presents a significant disruption of neuronal circuits: certain connections between inhibitory and activating neurons are weakened, and one has the impression of going in circles, no longer move forward, no longer find solutions to get out of it, details the Depression Center located in the XNUMXth arrondissement of Paris. Dynamic neurofeedback, a gentle method without side effects that soothes and calms the mind. ”

Prices vary between 50 and 80 € depending on the practitioner. Like the vast majority of natural and alternative medicine, Health Insurance does not reimburse dynamic neurofeedback sessions. Some mutuals nevertheless offer support.