Clinical Neurofeedback

How does it work?

During a neurofeedback session, the client is comfortably seated while small electrodes are placed on specific areas of the scalp. These sensors detect the brain's electrical activity (brainwaves), they do not deliver any electricity to the brain.

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The system provides real-time feedback when the brain produces desired brainwave patterns. This feedback often comes in the form of a video game, sound, or visual cue. For example, if the goal is to increase alpha brainwave activity, the client may hear a tone or see a visual reward each time their brain generates more alpha waves.

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The four primary brainwaves trained in neurofeedback are beta, alpha, theta, and delta. Over time, this passive and noninvasive process helps the brain learn to produce more optimal brainwave patterns in targeted areas, supporting better focus, emotional regulation, reduction in problematic symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. 

 

What conditions or diagnoses does it treat?

Neurofeedback has been empirically validated to treat numerous conditions including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, trauma, addiction, autism spectrum disorders, learning disabilities, and even schizophrenia (Marzbani, Marateb, and Mansourian, 2016). Clinical Neurofeedback also has implications and validity in the treatment of medical conditions such as epilepsy, post-concussion syndrome, migraine headaches, pain management, Parkinson’s disease, fibromyalgia, and stroke (Marzbani, Marateb, and Mansourian, 2016).

 

How many sessions do I need?

The number of neurofeedback sessions varies depending on the condition being addressed. Treatment begins with two key assessments:​

• Neurophysiological Assessment (EEG): This allows the clinician to observe brainwave activity in specific areas of the brain and develop a customized training protocol.

• Psychosocial Assessment: This involves a detailed discussion with the client about current symptoms and concerns.

By integrating both assessments, the clinician creates a personalized protocol tailored to the client’s needs.

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Typical protocol ranges include:

• ADHD: 30–40 sessions

• Anxiety & Insomnia: 20–25 sessions

• Depression: 25–30 sessions

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Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes, with 25–30 minutes dedicated to actual brain training.

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These figures are general guidelines. The total number of sessions may vary based on individual progress and clinical recommendations.

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What happens after I finish my protocol series and does it last?

While results may vary depending on the condition being treated, many individuals experience significant and lasting improvement in their symptoms through neurofeedback. Once the brain has been successfully retrained to produce healthier brainwave patterns, these changes tend to be durable.

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Think of it like learning to ride a bike... at first, it takes effort and practice, but once mastered, the skill becomes second nature. Even years later, most people can still ride a bike due to muscle memory and brain training. Neurofeedback works in a similar way by creating new, more efficient neural pathways that the brain learns to maintain.

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In some cases, occasional maintenance or “booster” sessions may be recommended to reinforce and support long-term progress, especially during periods of high stress or life transitions.

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Is there an age limit?

Successful neurofeedback protocols have been conducted on children as young as 4 to individuals well into their 80s. Individuals do need to be able to remain still during assessment testing and protocol sessions, which may be challenging for some younger children.

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What about medication?

Many individuals who begin neurofeedback training are also taking medication. For an accurate assessment, individual are asked to refrain from taking certain medications prior to testing. These will be discussed with you on an individual basis prior to assessment.

 

With continued neurofeedback sessions, many individuals report feeling as though their medication is working better. Some individuals are even able to reduce medications. We work closely with your doctor to make sure your medication dose is appropriate while in neurofeedback training.

 

Please feel free to reach out to our office regarding any questions or to get started with neurofeedback!