What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback, also referred to as EEG Biofeedback or Brain Training, is an effective, medication-free method of training and strengthening brain activity. The goal of Neurofeedback is to teach the brain to self-regulate which can ultimately aid in the treatment of many psychological conditions.
Neurofeedback is a lot like taking your brain to the (mental) gym. Given the right training program and an experienced supervisor, this provides optimal conditions to strengthen and improve brain function.
While engaging in regular physical activity is important, it is also necessary to prioritise regular and frequent brain training if the qEEG indicates disfunction in a particular area. It is advised that clients attend Neurofeedback twice a week for 10 weeks (20 sessions) to ensure that any changes in the brain are consistently strengthened and maintained over time. In more severe cases it may be necessary to access up to 50 sessions.
What happens during a session?
During a typical Neurofeedback session, clients are seated comfortably in front of a computer and fitted with an EEG cap. Similar to the Brain Scanning procedure, saline gel is placed in multiple electrodes around the head and a signal is established on the screen.
Once the client's program is loaded into the computer and session goals are determined, Neurofeedback training will commence.
During the 30-minute session, clients receive real-time information about their own brain activity in the form of audio or visual feedback on the computer screen situated in front of them. The brain learns to adjust it's activity based on this feedback; strengthening beneficial activity (e.g. concentration, focus, calm) and suppressing unfavourable activity (e.g. distractibility, worry, low mood).
After repeated sessions of Neurofeedback, the brain learns to activate specific regions and frequencies in line with the individually-tailored training program and established treatment goals.
By regulating brain function this can improve symptoms associated with a range of psychological conditions.