Abstract

Clinicians who are adding neurofeedback services to their psychotherapy practice are faced with a number of challenges. Neurotherapy, the combination of psychotherapy and neurofeedback, requires all the skills of the psychotherapist plus some additional ones. This chapter is an effort to try to define some of the theoretical constructs and tactics involved in providing neurotherapy in an optimal way. Time is spent in defining tactics for developing a working neurotherapeutic relationship as well as how to explain the rationale and process of neurofeedback to patients. It is important to discuss with patients the potential for negative effects as well as the impact of neurofeedback upon medication effects. Assessment and progress monitoring are important aspects of providing clinical care. The specific types of data that have usefulness for neurofeedback progress monitoring include: (1) standardized rating scales and inventories; (2) neuropsychological tests; (3) behavioral ratings; and (4) EEG measures. There are a range of choices in neurofeedback approaches and protocols and some of the options will be discussed. Neurotherapy provides some unique ethical challenges which will be presented. Finally, given the complexity of this work, and the relative newness of the field, there is a need for continuing professional education and support.