Athletic performance is both physical and mental.
In general, sports performance may be enhanced through mental improvements proven to help athletes refine their practices, overcome obstacles that prevent them from reaching their potential or overcome the pressures of competition.
Using advanced technologies, Dr. Silverman assists athletes and business executives with their ability to focus, improve accuracy and sustain a mental edge in their sport.
Some of the performance benefits you can achieve:
- Stronger attention and focus
- Improved ability to block out distractions
- Beng able to "get into the zone"
- A sharper mental edge
- Improved mental timing and coordination
- Improved mental recovery
- Perform more relaxed with improved concentration
Techniques:
The following techiques are used to help achieve sports performance:
Neurofeedback
Through Neurofeedback, you are able to improve attention and concentration through visual and audible interaction and feedback with a computer.
EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback) is a natural approach that trains an individual to sustain attention while remaining focused and relaxed. It is used for many conditions and disabilities in which the brain is not working appropriately.
Neurofeedback
is a completely painless technique designed to teach people to control their brain waves. It is a treatment that can be used by itself or in conjunction with medication. In many cases, medication may be reduced or eliminated.
Neurofeedback trains an individual to concentrate while receiving visual and auditory feedback from a computer. Those requiring academic and perceptual remedial training may engage in various activities such as reading, writing, arithmetic, listening, concentration and memory skills.
This method can be effective in reducing excessive slow brain wave activity while increasing alert, focused, fast brain wave activity, resulting in significant improvements in attention and concentration.
Quantitative EEG (QEEG)/Brain Maps
QEEG stands for quantitative electroencephalograph. Recorded from 19-channels (see EEG Recording), the resulting EEG data are computer processed to provide a statistical analysis of brain electrical activity. In turn, these data are presented in visual forms such as "brain maps" and other images which show the ways in which different areas of the brain are functioning.
When applied to a database, a precise determination of whether the brain is functioning within a "normal" pattern for a persons age, sex and handedness, or if there is another type of functioning which might need clinical attention.
The most important use of the QEEG is to provide a guide, brain maps, for use in correcting abnormal brain functioning through Neurofeedback training.
This advanced technology, initially designed by NASA for it's pilots, combines neurofeedback with standard video games to help maximize your metal abilities in an entertaining environment.
Research confirms the most important ingredient in learning is the ability to focus on the material being learned. S.M.A.R.T BrainGames exercises the brain's ability to sustain attention. As this ability increases, the ability to learn also increases.
The S.M.A.R.T. BrainGames technology converts standard video games, like Gran Tourismo or Tony Hawk Skateboarding, into tools to improve your mental awareness. S.M.A.R.T. BrainGames transforms the fun pastime of playing a video game into a beneficial experience ... you are no longer just pressing buttons ... your brain and your ability to produce attention-enhancing brain patterns becomes part of the game activity.
This technology, initially developed by NASA to improve a pilots attention and engagement to tasks in a flight similuator, is licensed on a limited basis to select providers in specific geographic locations, including the Center for Peak Performance.
Home Training for S.M.A.R.T. Brain Games
For your convenience, we can provide this NASA patented S.M.A.R.T. (Self Mastery And Regulation Training) Brain Games technology, exclusively licensed, for your home or office use.
Our in-home training includes:
- An assessment and evaluation of your condition
- Verification of appropriateness for home training
- Individual design and set-up of home training
programs into your S.M.A.R.T Box - Monitoring of progress at scheduled intervals
- Available verbally or electronically to consult
with you, or meet with you to advise when changes might be needed
for your home training - Routine assessment tools for you to complete
and return to us for monitoring your ongoing progress - We might also have suggestions concerning your
needs or resources.
Interactive Metronome®
The Interactive Metronome uses computer-based interactive excercises specifically targeted to help with focus, concentration and timing. This technology has been successfully used with a number of elite athletes and teams, including Vinjay Singh, the Miami Heat and the Notre Dame football team.
The Interactive Metronome® (IM) is a patented technology program shown to improve attention, coordination and timing in children and adults.
IM trains the brain to plan, sequence and process information more effectively through repetition of precise activities. The program typically includes 15 one-hour sessions over a 3 to 5 week period.
A series of hand and foot exercises are preformed while IM's patented auditory guidance system progressively challenges individuals to improve their accuracy as they actively attempt to match the computer generated beat.
The difference between the individual's response and the reference beat is measured in milliseconds and a score is provided. A low ms. score indicates improved timing and overall performance.
Peak Achievement Trainer
Designed specifically for athletes, this program works on conditioning and strengthening your mental abilities. Ultimately, your abilities to focus, relax and concentrate are improved, allowing you to play at your peak ability.
Coaching
In addition to technology, we also use the following techniques:
Goal Setting
Learn to set effective outcome goals for long-term objectives, plus specific goals for every competition.
Imagery/Visualization
Create an imagery script for mental practice - great for learning new skills and setting practice scenarios.
Self-Talk/Confidence
Develop positive self-talk strategies, including cue words to refine focus.
Individualized Zones
Learn which emotions are the most useful and critical for you when performing optimally.
Concentration/Focus
Develop the techniques and routine for relaxation, energy regulation and distraction control.
Dr. Silverman’s treatment protocol involves a multi-modality program to achieve the most beneficial and lasting results. Included in this approach may be:
• EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback)
• Quantitative EEG (QEEG)/Brainmapping
• Supervised treatment by a trained therapist
• Coaching strategies
