Abstract
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic disorder characterised by hyperactivity, difficulty in concentration and impulsivity. Other problems, such as academic difficulties and impeded social behaviours, tend to accompany this disorder, thus increasing the likelihood of a reduced adaptive functionality in adulthood. Conventional medications, although effective for most sufferers, have been documented to present with adverse effects and an increased risk of dependency, therefore compliance from patients may be poor. As a result, individuals struggling with ADHD often seek out other forms of treatment. Neurofeedback (electroencephalography biofeedback) is a type of therapy that aims to correct brain-wave dysregulation and enhance proper brain functionality, and is commonly used in conditions such as depression, anxiety and ADHD. Despite the abundance of evidence that affirms its value in the treatment of ADHD, there have been limited studies done to date regarding neurotherapists’ experiences of neurofeedback in the treatment of this condition. The purpose of this study was to discover and describe the experiences of neurotherapists in the province of Gauteng, South Africa who are treating ADHD patients with neurofeedback therapy, by means of face-to-face interviews. This exploratory and phenomenological qualitative research study thus used interviews to examine the experiences of neurotherapists using neurofeedback therapy in treating their ADHD patients in private practices located within the province of Gauteng, South Africa. Neurotherapists registered with the Biofeedback Association of South Africa (BFSA) were recruited through purposive sampling. Recruitment communication was done via email and telephonic means and all relevant information sheets regarding the study were emailed before the commencement of the interviews. Those who volunteered to take part gave permission for both their participation and the audio recording of the interviews. All six participants involved met all inclusion criteria of the study. Every interview was driven by the central question, “Tell me about your experiences using neurofeedback as a treatment for patients with ADHD in your practice?” Three themes were identified from the data collected by interviewing six neurotherapists who make use of neurofeedback in the treatment of ADHD in their practice. Data was coded line-byline and organised for analysis. Theme one was the experiences of the neurotherapists and the challenges they encountered while using the therapy. Theme two was the value of neurofeedback in private practice, while theme three was the reputation neurofeedback has amongst the public. Participants reported positive experiences with neurofeedback. They described neurofeedback as their preferred method of treating ADHD, as well as other neurological conditions such as iv Tourette’s syndrome and tics. Emotional irregularities like depression and anxiety were also discussed as benefiting from the therapy. Participants mentioned that although they face challenges when treating patients with ADHD, they have learnt to adapt their sessions to ensure that the patient receives the most benefit. All neurotherapists expressed their frustrations in the limitations they have found with their treatment, which include how patient compliance and chaotic life situations have a direct impact on the patient’s improvement. Neurotherapists also expressed their concern about the public misconception of neurofeedback, which is largely owing to unlicensed individuals treating patients and advertising it as a “cure all” modality. In terms of recommendations, neurotherapists should publish case studies and articles in accredited online journals. With regards to the unmonitored online training in neurofeedback, perhaps laws can be drafted that prohibit sites from offering neurofeedback-related courses unless they are approved by the BFSA. Owing to the lack of knowledge and limited research done regarding the therapy, it is imperative that more studies like this one are carried out in the future. From this qualitative study, a crucial understanding of the value that neurofeedback therapy has for neurotherapists treating patients with ADHD was discovered, paving the way for further studies in this field.
M.Tech. (Homoeopathy)