NEUROFEEDBACK IN SPORTS: ATHLETES WITH ADD

Chris Kamen, the center of the L.A. Clippers was recently interviewed on ESPN about his experiences using Neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback). Chris reports that he thinks he was incorrectly diagnosed with ADHD, since his EEG brainwave pattern was not the common ADHD pattern of High Theta (daydream) and Low Beta (alertness) brainwaves.

Many individuals begin with a QEEG Map test to determine the exact brain imbalance location and to select the most successful protocols for Neurofeedback. A QEEG Map test, if used, could have helped Chris discover which of the 4 subtypes of ADHD he actually has, which probably includes a high Beta type (busy brain).

Chris chose Neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback) as a treatment to lower his high Beta and improve his attention and focus to achieve more consistency in his on-the-court performances. Neurofeedback has been used for more than 30 years with individuals with ADHD to improve attention/focus, hyperactivity and impulsivity; and decrease overfocus and anxiety. More recently, numerous athletes, professional and Olympic teams have been using Neurofeedback to eliminate obstacles to achieving peak performance states and gain more frequent control of and access to the “zone”.

Mission Psychological Consultants (MPC) and the Original ADD Treatment Centers offer Neurofeedback both for ADHD/related conditions and for athletes. MPC Drs. Ben Strack and Michael Linden are the editors of a new book written about the benefits of using biofeedback and neurofeedback with athletes. “Unleashing Your ‘A’ Game: Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Strategies in Sports Psychology” (2008, In Press) offers cutting edge material for training competitive athletes of all ages and skill levels. The doctors are available to work with individuals, teams, organizations, schools and coaches and can be contacted at 949-248-4399 or mpccares@aol.com.

Michael Linden, Ph.D.
ADD Treatment Centers
949-248-7411, x 102