NEUROFEEDBACK
Brain activity is a concerted effort – meaning our various brain functions work together, literally “in concert,” all the time. When we perform various tasks, specific areas of the brain “fire up” and become engaged with other areas. If that engagement is not in sync – that is, if even one area is “off” – the brain loses its ability to process information effectively or respond to the task at hand.
INITIAL ASSESSMENT
In preparing a person’s Neurofeedback protocol, we consider developmental history, a review of current symptoms, and the goals of the individual. In most cases, we may also use an assessment tool called a Quantitative EEG. QEEG is a brain mapping technique, like an MRI or PET scan, which illustrates electrical activity throughout the brain and focuses on connectivity - how different parts of the brain are communicating with one another. For the purposes of Brainwave Neurofeedback, it shows us where to “train the brain.” A QEEG session involves little more than sitting in a comfortable chair and wearing a cap with attached electrodes. We then record the electrical activity of your brain, 10 minutes with your eyes open and 10 minutes with your eyes closed - this is done right in our office.
BRAINWAVE NEUROFEEDBACK
Brainwave Neurofeedback is a training technique that presents the user with feedback so he or she can establish more control over brainwave activity and its corresponding behaviors, moods and mental states. Brain science has shown that repetitive exercise of brain networks results in an actual change in the brain (neuroplasticity). Based on the idea that the brain can correct and balance itself when given the right opportunity, Brainwave Neurofeedback allows you to address a core neurological problem by monitoring the activity in your brain.
HOW IT WORKS
During a Brainwave Neurofeedback session, we affix sensors to the scalp to transmit brainwave data to a computer. The computer then translates the information into a series of constantly changing graphs and “video game” displays. If brain activity moves in a desired direction, the person is “rewarded” with visual and auditory cues in the game. This real-time feedback allows someone to learn what it feels like to produce specific, desirable brainwaves. In fact, brain activity feedback is provided every half second. This means that over the course of a session, you get over 1,500 chances to “learn.” That’s a lot of repetitive exercise.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM NEUROFEEDBACK?
While Neurofeedback is not always indicated for everyone, we have used it to ameliorate many problems for the vast majority of our clients. Current research supports the use of Neurofeedback in the treatment of, among other things:
- Anxiety
- Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Behavior Problems
- Depression
- Developmental Delay
- Executive Function Problems
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Learning Problems
- Seizure Disorders
- Sleep Problems
- Social Difficulties
HOME BASED NEUROFEEDBACK SYSTEM
While Dr. Pesner no longer keeps a full time office, he is able to provide the equipment to have a home based neurofeedback experience. Dr. Pesner provides setup, training and supplies for a low monthly rental. Please call for more information.
TESTIMONIAL
Before our 10 year old son began Neurofeedback, we could barely have a conversation without him losing focus, getting frustrated and angry which, then, resulted in him getting down on himself. Since Jay has begun this program, we have seen a dramatic change. We are now able to have peaceful, meaningful, lengthy conversations about almost anything! In addition, Jay has struggled with homework since kindergarten because of his difficulty staying focused on it and he lacked confidence in his ability to do it without becoming frustrated. Now, Jay is able to stay focused and he takes pride in his work and his accomplishments. Most importantly, when Jay feels he is having trouble, he is able to ask for help. I have seen such major strides in the past few months and our home is filled with more joy than we ever imagined was possible! (Too bad it doesn’t help stop bothering his sister!)
Donna F. of Woodland Park, NJ
CONSULTATION & EVALUATION
BEHAVIORAL ISSUES
Dr. Pesner has been evaluating children and adolescents with complex presentations for over 30 years. Frequently he has met with parents who question a diagnosis their child has been given previously, or who feel there is “something more” going on with their child than just, for example, ADHD or Autism Spectrum. Dr. Pesner considers the whole child in his evaluations – language, learning, sensory, executive functioning, mood, anxiety, social skills and social cognition, family dynamics - that may be impacting behavior and functioning in school, at home and in the community. Tailored recommendations and treatment options are then provided to help parents optimize their child’s progress.Brain activity is a concerted effort – meaning our various brain functions work together, literally “in concert,” all the time. When we perform various tasks, specific areas of the brain “fire up” and become engaged with other areas. If that engagement is not in sync – that is, if even one area is “off” – the brain loses its ability to process information effectively or respond to the task at hand.
NEURODEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES IN ADULTS
Dr. Pesner also has extensive experience evaluating adults who may believe they are on the Autism Spectrum. For many people (particularly women) their struggles were inaccurately diagnosed when they were younger. Through on-line research they may begin to suspect they have an undiagnosed condition. Following a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Pesner can affirm (or reject) a suspected ASD diagnosis and offer suggestions for best steps forward.
ADVOCACY FOR SCHOOL BASED SERVICES
Throughout his career, Dr. Pesner has advocated for children needing 504 or IEP services in school. Whether it is advocating for an initial classification, adding goals and services, or recommending an out-of-district placement, Dr. Pesner has helped hundreds of families secure the necessary accommodations, support services and programs to help children improve their functioning in school. As part of this process, Dr. Pesner often observes children in their classroom and attends Child Study Team meetings.
TESTIMONIAL
We found Therapeutic Options after trying a number of other counseling and psychological services. Our child was recovering from a crisis and they were there when we needed them. We quickly found Dr. Pesner and the entire staff to be professional, highly accomplished, patient, and effective in both understanding and motivating our child with the multiple challenges being faced. The services they offered, recommendations they made, and results we have seen from all of the sessions and services provided are more than we had expected based on our other experiences. We have the highest regard for all of their services and recommend them without hesitation.
Paul & Diane of Budd Lake, NJ
