submitted by Maria Di Donato DEd, BCN, PA Licensed Psychologist, PA/NJ Certified School Psychologist
Laura not her real name, an adult woman from Burlington, NJ was experiencing severe cognitive and emotional problems following an automobile accident. While stopped, her car was hit from behind by another car going 45 mph. Her recall of the accident included an awareness of the impact, applying the brakes with both feet and being very disoriented and confused afterwards. Besides some physical injuries, her sequelae afterwards indicated a spiraling decline in emotional stability, difficulty sleeping, concentrating and doing routine responsibilities. She cried easily, her feelings were easily hurt, she experienced racing thoughts, headaches. She felt physical tension throughout her body and reported that she felt like her brain was shaking inside her head.
Laura was referred to our office by a friend soon after her injury. Because of the head injury, a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG) was administered to assess the damage. Information from the QEEG indicated damage along the left frontal, temporal and posterior region. It was consistent with the information from the accident indicating injury to the left cheekbone, suggesting an impact with the steering wheel.
After the first session, she reported more energy, feeling calmer and more relaxed, less hyper, and happier. Gradually, over time, Laura began feeling more balanced. Her progress was slow at first, but over time language fluency, emotional balance, improved sleep and reduced anxiety were reported.
She gradually began resuming her normal activities as her healing progressed. Currently, she feels well enough to seek new employment. She smiles more and is cheerful which are things that were not possible at first.
As Laura continues to heal, a return to a permanent normal lifestyle is expected. Something that would otherwise not happen without treatment.
Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that rewards positive waves and over time the brain learns the new brainwaves and more positive emotional, cognitive and behavioral balance.