Neurofeedback therapy is a type of biofeedback that works to train the brain’s ability to regulate itself, improve overall functioning and support healthy mental processes. The technique is used to help with conditions such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, and more.
The basic process involves placing sensors on the head and sending real-time information to a computer that shows you in real time what is happening in your brain. This feedback may come in the form of audio, visual, electrical, magnetic or tactile stimuli.
While the results from studies are promising, it is important to remember that neuroscience research is still in its early stages, and that not all results are equal. However, many patients who receive Neurofeedback Therapy report significant benefits and improved quality of life from the sessions.
During a typical session, electrodes are placed on your scalp to monitor your brain activity. This data is sent to a computer, where it’s processed and displayed on a video screen in real-time. During the session, you’ll watch as the screen becomes brighter when your brain produces certain brainwaves and dimmer when it does not. This allows you to see exactly how your brain waves affect your behavior and learn how to produce healthier behaviors in a matter of minutes.
As the session progresses, you will work with your practitioner to understand how to produce these desirable brainwave patterns. You’ll practice this in a safe and supportive environment until the brain wave patterns become more natural to you.
A typical session lasts about an hour and is done while you’re conscious and alert. The most common side effects include headset discomfort or drowsiness. More serious side effects such as agitation, irritability and cognitive interference are very rare.
In addition to treating disorders, Neurofeedback has been shown to benefit normal people who simply want to focus better and increase their attention spans. It has also been used to help veterans dealing with the effects of PTSD and chronic pain.
The exact mechanisms of how this therapy works are unclear, but it’s believed that encouraging particular brain wave patterns can lead to improvements in certain cognitive operations. Some of the more commonly reported benefits include a reduction in ADHD symptoms, improved working memory and longer attention spans, reduced depression, anxiety, and stress, and improved sleep quality.
Many clients notice an improvement in their symptoms within the first few sessions. For some, it takes longer for the changes to take effect. Just like learning a language, it takes multiple sessions to really begin to stick.
Neurofeedback is drug free and has been shown to be effective with a variety of conditions such as: