How does neurofeedback work?

As with any effective treatment, the first step of the neurofeedback process is an in-depth assessment which allows us to understand how you or your child’s brain functions.  This assessment leads to a determination of our treatment goals and on what areas of the brain we need to focus.  The video below shows the different areas of brain function. 

With neurofeedback we are enhancing an awareness of our internal states by allowing the brain to witness its own EEG activity.  This promotes the brain to self-regulate, which supports better function.  Our nervous systems strive to keep us alive and to function at an optimal level.  However, we often get stuck in dysfunctional modes of behavior.  Our goal is to allow the nervous system to calm down and to reset itself onto a better path.

How do our brains witness their own EEG activity? Electrodes (small sensors) are attached to the scalp with paste.  These electrodes read the brain’s activity, which in turn alters a video screen according to how your brain is functioning, providing feedback to the brain. EEG feedback has two components—rewards and inhibits.  The inhibits show the brain when it has gone off track. Throughout the neurofeedback session, you watch a video (of your choice) wherein the screen shrinks or fades (inhibits) in response to brain activity which causes your brain to self-correct. This process is portrayed in the video below.

Infra-low frequency bipolar training allows better physiological self-regulation.   Alpha-Theta training assists in psychological resolution.  Together they provide a powerful tool for improving health and well-being.  Whether our goal is to reduce problematic symptoms or to improve performance in academics or sports, the usual outcome is the same—improved function, freeing us to feel, behave and perform to our full potential.