Neurofeedback is a non-invasive therapeutic approach that involves measuring brainwave activity and provide real-time feedback to the patient for improved self-regulation of their brain function and endogenous symptom management.

During a neurofeedback session, sensors are placed on the scalp to record the electrical activity of the brain. The information collected is then processed and displayed on a screen in the form of visual and auditory feedback. Parameters of the EEG signal are then reflected in the auditory, tactile, and visual
feedback via a game or video. The brain engages with that information and starts self-correcting processes leading to improved function.

There are different types of neurofeedback techniques, including frequency band, qEEG-based, and ILF training. Each one targets specific brainwave patterns associated with different cognitive and emotional processes, but ultimately, they all train the brain into improved core self-regulation which allows it to correct dysfunction and results in overall improvement in symptoms related to that.

Neurofeedback is successfully used for a wide range of indications. Clinicians use the self-regulating and stress-reducing effects of neurofeedback to address multiple mental health concerns and provide a path toward healing for many clients. Many studies are showing the effects of neurofeedback as impactful in the treatment of mental illnesses including ADHD, anxiety, sleep disorders, autism-spectrum disorder, PTSD and cognitive deficits.

There are several benefits to using neurofeedback, including that it is non-invasive, painless, and does not involve the use of medication, making it a safe and natural alternative to traditional treatments. Unlike medication, neurofeedback has no lasting side effects, and can be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy. Neurofeedback is highly individualized and the treatment is tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Each session has personalized training and makes use of all types of multimedia like videos, images, and games. Though a neurofeedback session can feel like playing a video game, it is actively teaching the brain how to regulate arousal and reverse maladaptive patterns.

Additionally, neurofeedback uses normative, standardized, and quantifiable measurements which help decide on the treatment and track clinical progress. This is a great advantage because it allows treatments to be more precise than other therapies since clinical decisions are based on quantitative data. Because of this, many patients have seen clinical improvements, even where other treatments or medications have failed. Neurofeedback addresses the cause of a problem instead of focusing on symptoms. It can help strengthen neural patterns involved in specific behaviors or functions, supporting a desired therapeutic effect. Many individuals experience long-lasting and sustained improvements. The brain can continue to adapt and change even after the treatment has ended.

For over 50 years, neurofeedback has been paving the way as a reliable mental health treatment. It is an important tool in the field of psychology and neuroscience, as it offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach to improving brain functioning. Its effectiveness, safety, and long-lasting effects make it a promising alternative to traditional treatments. Neurofeedback is revolutionizing the way we approach the treatment of mental health and neurological disorders.

Neurofeedback is a very individualized approach, specific to the client’s needs. This means each brain will need individualized training protocols designed to achieve optimal training outcomes, implemented over a variable number of sessions. Neurofeedback is a training technique that requires complex clinical decision-making and strong clinical skills to be effective, therefore it is imperative that it is provided by trained mental health professionals. It requires a comprehensive training curriculum and evaluation process to ensure mental health professionals are prepared to provide neurofeedback services.