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 Attention Performance Center 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 info@mpccares.com.

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

TESTIMONIALS FROM PROFESSIONALS

“The newest technological advancement in professional sport is shaping levels of attention and concentration for competition. Now you can take your "Brain" to the weight room (on a computer) for Thinking Faster and Getting into the Zone. Nearly every competitive athlete can benefit from the speed training and mental endurance conditioning provided by Ben Strack.”
Wes Sime, Ph.D., MPH, Ph.D.
Professor University of Nebraska, Sport/Health Psychologist
Former Sport Psychologist, Kansan City Royals

- - -

“I have worked with Ben a number of times. His biofeedback technique has helped me learn how to relax on the golf course. It is very important to learn how to control your emotions when you are in a tournament. Ben has taught me how proper breathing can improve your performance. I have been a touring pro since 1988 and have played in 3 U.S. Opens and I have learned that relaxation and breathing are the most important components to performing well under pressure.”
Perry Parker, Professional Golfer
Asian, Australian, Canadian, Nike & PGA Tours

- - -

“You must be in control of yourself before you can control your performance. Biofeedback is an excellent strategy for gaining awareness and control of the body’s natural stress signals. Dr. Strack’s awareness training techniques are instrumental to improving mental toughness and reaching one’s full potential”
Ken Ravizza, Ph.D.
Sport Psychology Consultant (Los Angeles Dodgers, Anaheim Angels, Cal Sate Fullerton Baseball Clubs)
Author of “Heads-Up Baseball: Playing the game one pitch at a time”

- - -

“Dr. Strack’s training program is a great way to raise the bar on your performance accomplishments. He teaches self-discipline techniques that will increase your focus and concentration and help you gain a mental edge on your competition.”
Shawn Green
Professional Baseball Player, New York Mets