What is Neurofeedback?

Brain waves and deregulation

Whether we are deep asleep or engaged in a very demanding task, our brains always produce a range of electric/electromagnetic waves, which are measured in a unit called Hertz. In the table below, you can see the range of brainwaves and how each one of them corresponds to a state of being ranging from deep sleep to intense learning.

The brain has its own feedback mechanism that provides information so when we stop a very demanding task it can return back to a more relaxed state and vice versa. This feedback mechanism forms an automatic regulatory system (imagine something similar to a car’s automatic gearbox that adjusts the power in the engine depending on the circumstances) that works most of the time and can regulate our brain waves, which in their turn regulate our state of being (behaviour, thoughts, emotions and body sensations). One could say that a well-functioning person is one that has a very good ability to regulate themselves. However, some of us have (at times or permanently) a difficulty regulating ourselves because our feedback mechanisms in the brain are not working well. When the brain’s regulatory mechanism does not work properly, we cannot receive the feedback that, for example, we have now finished writing an exam and there is no longer any need to continue to be in a hyperactive/HiBeta state (see table above). Without our brain having this information, it therefore cannot regulate itself and return to a relaxed/Alpha state and continues to stay in a hyperactive/anxious state. This state of brain dysregulation is often behind the symptoms of various conditions such as ADHD, autistic spectrum disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders, bipolar and personality disorders, anger, migraines, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue and post-cancer cognitive impairment (‘chemo-brain’).

Regulation and neuroplasticity

Brain dysregulation can be remedied via the process of neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the process whereby the brain has the ability to reorganise and change itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. In simple terms, our brains have the ability to “repair” themselves and grow, much like other muscles in our body. Below is short video that explains the process of neuroplasticity.

The Neurofeedback solution

So, this is where neurofeedback comes in. It helps to retrain the brain waves by providing valuable real time feedback of the electric brain signals which then helps the brain to use this information to learn to self-regulate, repair neuronal connections and work at an optimum level.

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG (electroencephalography) biofeedback, is a non-drug treatment that belongs to a group of therapies called biofeedback. Neurofeedback works on the principle that if a person can see his or her brain functions in real time, s/he can learn to control them. The goal of neurofeedback is to train the brain to regulate itself and to help the person training to understand when their brain is in the desired state (e.g. relaxed or engaged). Eventually, the person can control these processes without being monitored. The feedback is given based on sensors which are placed on the head and which measure brain activity by observing electrical signals/brain waves (a process called EEG) while the person is engaging in a cognitive task (e.g. watching a video or playing a game). For instance, someone with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) may not be aware when their brain is in a focused state, or recognise when their mind is wandering. During the neurofeedback training, they can see exactly when their mind is wandering in real time and learn how to return their focus to the activity at hand. Using neurofeedback, the brain learns to regulate its activity by playing games, watching videos or listening to music as part of a training program. Over time, the ability to control the brain waves can be applied in real world situations, for instance, by helping them relax in stressful situations, or concentrate during class.

Neurofeedback is a safe and effective brain training technique. The sensors do nothing to your brain except monitor brainwaves! They do not “transfer” any energy or electricity to your brain. They simply measure (brainwaves) and give you feedback!

Neurofeedback is a form of therapy, not a medication, and it is therefore non-invasive and has no negative side effects. The electrodes simply monitor brain waves using EEG, and the client receives feedback instantly based on the EEG readings. Like every form of training, neurofeedback requires regular practice. Most studies have found that people start seeing some small improvements after 6 weeks, providing that they train at least 4 to 5 times per week.

Unlike medication, which usually only works whilst it is being taken, regular neurofeedback training can provide lasting benefits. Studies have shown (see here and here) that, after completing a complete neurofeedback program, people experienced improvements which last years. This is because neurofeedback brain training provides the brain with the feedback it needs to make permanent corrections itself, contrary to medication that simply control the symptoms.

How can Neurofeedback help?

Is Neurofeedback Effective ?

There is a wealth of scientific studies that document neurofeedback’s effectiveness with various conditions, as it has been used by clinicians for more than forty years.

“The literature, which lacks any negative study of substance, suggests that EEG biofeedback therapy should play a major therapeutic role in many difficult areas. In my opinion, if any medication had demonstrated such a wide spectrum of efficacy, it would be universally accepted and widely used.”

Frank Duffy, MD, Neurologist, Harvard Medical School Professor

Please clink on the buttons below for a compilation of scientific studies that document how neurofeedback can help with a wide range of conditions.

ONLINE NEUROFEEDBACK

BENEFITS OF ONLINE NEUROFEEDBACK

Cost-effective: Save money and time by renting a home training unit.

Convenience: The mobile system consists of a headband, an electrode and a tablet. You can train anywhere with an internet connection.

Family training: Multiple family members can train on the same device.

Results: You can train many times per week enabling you to experience the benefits quicker.

Engaging: Eight different training modes including the ability to train by watching Youtube videos or listening to music.

NEUROFEEDBACK IS A SAFE AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT THAT CAN HELP CHILDREN, TEENAGERS, AND ADULTS HEAL THEMSELVES AND ACHIEVE PEAK PERFORMANCE. I OFFER NEUROFEEDBACk online, in London, and in Edinburgh.