Neurofeedback
❝Neurofeedback trains your brain using real-time feedback to improve focus, reduce stress, and support mental well-being. Read on to learn how it works, who it can help, and what the research says.❞
Neurofeedback is a type of therapy that uses real-time displays of brain activity to teach you how to regulate your brain function. Also called EEG biofeedback, it involves placing sensors on your scalp to monitor brainwaves while you watch a computer screen or listen to audio feedback. When your brain produces the desired patterns, you receive positive feedback (like a sound or visual reward). Over time, this training can help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and manage various mental health conditions.
Therapy should be personal. Our therapists are qualified, independent, and free to answer to you – no scripts, algorithms, or company policies.
Find Your TherapistTable of Contents | Jump Ahead
- How It Works
- What to Expect
- Conditions It May Help
- Benefits
- Safety and Considerations
- Finding Help
- Cost and Insurance
- The Science
- Remember
- References
How It Works
During neurofeedback, small sensors are placed on your head to measure electrical activity in your brain (brainwaves). This information is sent to a computer that shows your brain activity in real-time through games, videos, or sounds. When your brain produces healthier patterns, you get positive feedback. Your brain learns to repeat these better patterns, similar to how you might learn to ride a bike through practice and feedback.
What to Expect
During Your Session:- You'll sit comfortably in a chair with sensors placed on your scalp (this doesn't hurt)
- You'll watch a screen or listen to sounds that respond to your brain activity
- Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes
- You might play simple computer games controlled by your brainwaves
- Most people find it relaxing and interesting to watch their brain activity
Treatment Process:
- Initial assessment to map your brain patterns
- Usually requires 20-40 sessions for lasting changes
- Sessions are typically 1-3 times per week
- Progress is monitored through brain mapping and symptom tracking
- Some people notice improvements within a few sessions, others need more time
Conditions It May Help
Neurofeedback has been studied for various conditions, though research quality varies:- ADHD (most researched application)
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression
- Sleep problems
- Traumatic brain injury
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Epilepsy
- Peak performance training
Benefits
- Non-invasive - no medications or side effects
- Personalised - training is based on your specific brain patterns
- Long-lasting - changes can persist after treatment ends
- Drug-free - can be used alone or with other treatments
- Objective feedback - you can see your progress in real-time
- Safe - no known serious side effects
Safety and Considerations
Generally Safe:- No known serious side effects
- Non-invasive and painless
- Can be used with most other treatments
- Suitable for children and adults
Temporary Effects Some People Experience:
- Mild fatigue after sessions
- Temporary headaches
- Slight mood changes as brain adjusts
- These usually resolve quickly
Important Notes:
- Results vary significantly between individuals
- More research is needed for many conditions
- Not a cure-all - works best as part of comprehensive treatment
- Quality of equipment and practitioner training matters
Finding Help
Look for practitioners who:- Are licensed mental health professionals
- Have specific neurofeedback certification
- Use FDA-approved equipment
- Provide clear explanations of their approach
- Offer realistic expectations about outcomes
Questions to Ask:
- What type of neurofeedback do you use?
- How many sessions do you typically recommend?
- What are your qualifications and training?
- Can you provide references or outcome data?
- How do you measure progress?
Cost and Insurance
- Sessions typically cost $75-200 each
- Total treatment may cost $2,000-8,000
- Some insurance plans cover neurofeedback for certain conditions
- Check with your provider about coverage
- Some practitioners offer payment plans
Note: These are typical ranges but can vary depending on several factors. Always verify with your provider for personalised quotes.
The Science
Research on neurofeedback shows mixed but promising results. The strongest evidence exists for ADHD treatment, where multiple studies show it can be as effective as medication for some people. For other conditions, research is ongoing, and results vary. The field continues to evolve with new technologies and better understanding of how brain training works.
Remember
Neurofeedback can be a valuable tool for many people, but it's not magic. Like learning any new skill, it takes time and practice. Work with qualified professionals, maintain realistic expectations, and consider it as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health and wellness.
References
International Society for Neurofeedback and Research. (n.d.). What is neurofeedback? https://isnr.org/what-is-neurofeedback
Arns, M., Heinrich, H., & Strehl, U. (2014). Evaluation of neurofeedback in ADHD: The long and winding road. Biological Psychology, 95, 108-115. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24321363/
Marzbani, H., Marateb, H. R., & Mansourian, M. (2016). Neurofeedback: A comprehensive review on system design, methodology and clinical applications. Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, 7(2), 143-158. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4892319/
Micoulaud‑Franchi, J.‑A., Geoffroy, P. A., Fond, G., Lopez, R., Bioulac, S., & Philip, P. (2014). EEG neurofeedback treatments in children with ADHD: An updated meta‑analysis of randomised controlled trials. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 8, 906. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.00906
Sitaram, R., et al. (2017). Closed-loop brain training: The science of neurofeedback. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 18(2), 86-100. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28003656/
Important: TherapyRoute does not provide medical advice. All content is for informational purposes and cannot replace consulting a healthcare professional. If you face an emergency, please contact a local emergency service. For immediate emotional support, consider contacting a local helpline.
Creating Space for Growth: How Boundaries Strengthen Relationships
Setting boundaries in relationships is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of maintaining healthy connections with others. Boundaries are personal limi...
International Mutual Recognition Agreements for Mental Health Professionals
Table of Contents | Jump Ahead Executive Summary Part I: Bilateral Agreements Part II: Multilateral Frameworks Part III: Profession-Specific Frameworks Part IV: Assessmen...
Jumping to Conclusions
Table of Contents Definition Key Characteristics Theoretical Background Clinical Applications Treatment Approaches Research and Evidence Examples and Applications Conclus...
Case Conceptualisation
Table of Contents Definition Key Characteristics Theoretical Background Clinical Applications Conceptualisation Process International Perspectives Research and Evidence P...
Guided Discovery
Table of Contents Definition Key Characteristics Theoretical Background Clinical Applications Treatment Applications Research and Evidence Techniques and Methods Professi...
About The Author
TherapyRoute
Cape Town, South Africa
“Our in-house team, including world-class mental health professionals, publishes high-quality articles to raise awareness, guide your therapeutic journey, and help you find the right therapy and therapists. All articles are reviewed and written by or under the supervision of licensed mental health professionals.”
TherapyRoute is a mental health resource platform connecting individuals with qualified therapists. Our team curates valuable mental health information and provides resources to help you find the right professional support for your needs.
