Effecting Peak Athletic Performance with Neurofeedback, Interactive Metronome®, and EMDR: A Case Study

This case study chronicles the application and effects of a customized combination of therapies, including neurofeedback, Interactive Metronome® (IM), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) created to help a professional athlete improve his brain function and performance. Brian, a 28-year-old professional baseball player, sought help for difficulty maintaining focus and concentration while playing baseball. He felt his challenges impeded his athletic performance, and he wanted to perform at the highest possible level during the upcoming spring training season. Brian's history combined with the results of a QEEG brain map led to a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder–Inattentive Type. The individualized treatment program for Brian included neurofeedback to lower theta activity and increase beta, IM to improve coordination and timing, and EMDR to address his feelings of anger and lack of self-confidence. At the conclusion of his training, Brian described feeling “clear-headed” and was able to focus his mind when needed. His timing and coordination improved, and he showed a positive attitude about playing baseball and felt confident that he would perform well at spring training.