Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a neurological condition driven by excessive thought (obsessions) and unusual repetitive behaviours (compulsions). An obsession is when thoughts are undesirable and distressful and don’t seem to go away. This line of thinking is thought to derive from the sub-conscious mind and is typically unrealistic. A compulsion is a behavioural response developed over time to control overbearing anxiety. Irrational activities include repeated checking of things often a certain number of times and creating extreme order with no sensible reason. OCD symptoms can vary in severity, with the worst cases being hugely debilitating. People with OCD use many means to live with the disorder, and coping mechanisms commonly involve lifestyle choices to conceal the problem. For example, those with germ issues may work from home or be self-employed to have control over their environment. This allows them to be able to keep surfaces clean and wash their hands over and over without being noticed. Another common trait is that sufferers struggle when they lose control of a situation or other people. This usually equates to problems in the workplace, with relationships and in social settings. Milder and often undiagnosed presentation of OCD features no compulsivity, just the persistent intrusive thoughts, which heighten under stress. These moderate cases can still be exhausting for sufferers and their families and friends, because sleep, mood, general health and daily function are drastically affected.

Anti-depressant medication, predominantly Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) and other prescription medications are widely used to manage OCD symptoms. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Deep brain stimulation (DBS) and Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are the most common non-pharmacological treatment modalities. Yoga and Meditation can also help with management of the condition, but as highlighted in a recent study (Zaboski et al, 2021), there is not enough research into options for, and outcomes of, OCD treatment. Consequently, many patients are looking for alternatives, as they do not want the disorder to impact their lives forever. For those not opting for Physical, Psychological or Pharmacological interventions, medication-free Neurofeedback (NF) is a suitable option.

Although OCD has been extensively researched, it is not completely understood. A large Meta-review of 65 OCD studies conducted by Perera and team in 2018, did however conclude that defective frontal circuitry and hyperactive performance monitoring are associated with the negative symptoms. The fronto-striato-thalamic loop, in particular, displays abnormal activity. With respect to Neurofeedback research, D.C Hammond has been particularly active in the field of OCD. Noting that Pharmaceuticals have little effect on some patients, he trialed 36 drug resistant OCD patients on a Neurofeedback program. Thirty-three were clinically improved after a series qEEG guided neurofeedback sessions, as measured on the Yale-Brown obsessive-compulsive scale (Y-BOCS).

How QEEG and Neurofeedback can help

Deviant electrical activity unique to the patient is identified in the QEEG results and can then be targeted in the personalized treatment protocol. QEEG Metrics in intensity/power, frequency/speed and coherence are measured in brain regions and compared to population databases. In addition to training atypical patterns seen in the individualized QEEG, the Z-score swLORETA Neurofeedback software offers various OCD protocols to trial. US based Neuroguide protocols feature a combination of metrics encompassing well researched theories related to the disorder. Training metrics include those directed at normalizing specific brain regions. For example, OCD studies indicate disruption to medial and lateral orbitofrontal cortex, Amygdala and Anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) which can be targetted (Brennan & Rauch, 2017). Research into OCD has also highlighted increases in Delta activity in frontal regions as well as maladjusted white matter/circuitry. In 2002, Gyorgy Buzsaki discovered hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal basal ganglia circuit, even when in resting state. In addition, a number of studies identify irregular activity in cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) circuitry (Goodman et al., 1989; Singh & Rose, 2009). This is particularly exciting because it is possible to train and modify activity in circuitry with the Neuroguide protocols.

The training software discourages the atypical response and promotes the preferred pattern. Rewiring usually occurs after a number of sessions and enables the healthier pattern to gradually overpower the dysfunctional pattern. The best outcome is when maps become green, reflecting a balanced and flexible brain. This sometimes happens after a number of different protocols are explored. It is not unusual for overall health to stabilize when the maps normalize or become greener. For example, when OCD symptoms reduce, other conditions like generalized anxiety and Insomnia can also dissipate.

Note :NDIS approved participants may be eligible for capacity building funding - please confirm with NDIS coordinator prior to booking.