Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most diagnosed psychological disorder among children. It is a developmental disorder that affects up to 10% of the child population and often extends into adulthood.
ADHD is characterised by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Research has also shown that working memory is compromised in children with ADHD (Kofler, 2008). Working memory is the system that is responsible for temporary storage and manipulation of information necessary to undertake complex cognitive tasks.
In addition to the difficulties experienced as a result of ADHD, poor working memory places further limits on a child’s ability to learn and can lead to behavioural and academic problems.
Neurofeedback has been shown to be successful in managing the core issues of ADHD (Van den Bergh, 2010; Chabot et al 2005; Gruzelier, 2005; Duffy 2000). It has also been shown that children and adults with ADHD significantly benefit from working memory programs and the best way to improve working memory skills is to actually train and use your memory!
Cogmed™ Working Memory Training Program combines cognitive neuroscience with innovative computer games to improve attention problems caused by poor working memory. Research conducted by the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm showed that 5 weeks of therapy successfully reduced symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
It consists of 25 training sessions, each 30 to 45 minutes long, over a 5 week period. Each session consists of a selection of various tasks that target different aspects of working memory with a qualified coach to work with the client to provide, structure, motivation and feedback on progress.
