What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, or more precisely “Neurofeedback Training”, is a learning-based, completely non-invasive intervention that trains the brain to function more efficiently.

Several studies have extensively shown that Neurofeedback Training is particularly effective in the treatment of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anger management, substance abuse (addiction), and trauma. However, Neurofeedback Training has also been shown to be a very powerful resource for those who don’t have any disorder in particular but still want to improve their performance at work and life in general (“Peak Performance” training).

 How Does Neurofeedback Training Work?

The very first time a client visits the Neurofeedback clinic, an assessment of symptoms/complaints or personal development goals is performed by a certified Clinical Psychologist.

Subsequently, baseline (before Neurofeedback Training) electrical brain activity (electroencephalogram or EEG) is measured during a condition of complete rest (also called resting state). This first phase is necessary to link behavioural reports and observations to brain function and, importantly, to identify areas of the brain that might not be functioning as well as they could.

For example, if you have had difficulties with attention, a specialist in EEG analysis will examine your resting state EEG tracings, looking for “anomalies” in the waveforms that are known to be associated with attention disturbances/disorders. The EEG specialist will then select the areas of the brain associated with the EEG anomalies detected and finally devise a tailored Neurofeedback Training with a view to normalise abnormal EEG activity.

What Happens during a Neurofeedback Training session?

As shown in the photo, you will be asked to wear a cap (very similar to a swimming cap!) with electrodes adhering to the head scalp to monitor electrical brain activity.

Importantly, the connection between electrodes and scalp is established in a completely non-invasive, pain-free way using water-based gel. No injection or cut will be given to you at any stage of the session…all you will need at its completion is just a nice head wash with shampoo and warm water.

During the session, you will watch a movie on a computer monitor or engage in a computer game. Every time the selected brain regions exhibit EEG anomalies, the movie/game will stop. However, the brain very quickly and gradually will learn to change its electrical activity in order to reduce the interruptions in movie/game reproduction and obtain a smoother perceptual experience.

In other words, session after session, by learning how to make the movie/game play more and more smoothly, your brain can learn to recruit new resources, eventually cancelling specific functional anomalies and ultimately reducing the associated behavioural disturbances.