Neurofeedback is a type of 'brain-training' therapy. It’s based on the idea that the brain can change and adapt, a concept called neuroplasticity. It monitors brain activity and gives real-time feedback, which is used to adjust brain patterns. Over time, your brain operates differently, leading to better mental and emotional health.
The process starts with measuring brain activity. You have a special cap with sensors placed on your scalp. It’s non-invasive – the sensors sit on your skin and cause no pain. They pick up electrical signals from your brain, which can be compared to results from a database of the general population. Some brainwave patterns are linked to issues like stress, anxiety, or trouble focusing. Neurofeedback trains your brain to reduce these patterns.
During a neurofeedback session, your practitioner uses a computer program to track brain activity in real-time. Games, sounds, or visuals help guide your brain toward healthier patterns. For example, if one part of your brain is overactive, you are rewarded with clearer sound and picture when the fast activity calms down. Over time, your brain learns to stay in these healthier activity states. It’s like muscles getting stronger with regular exercise.
Neurofeedback can help with a range of conditions. It’s often used for anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and sleep problems. Some people also use it to improve focus, performance, or emotional resilience, even if they don’t have a mental health diagnosis.
Neurofeedback is a safe therapy which doesn’t involve medication or invasive procedures. It usually takes multiple sessions to see lasting results. Unlike medication, the benefits of neurofeedback continue even when treatment stops. Many studies over more than 50 years show the benefits of neurofeedback for different conditions.
The experience and skill of your neurofeedback practitioner are important. Training your brain is like training your body – you need an expert who can identify the problem areas and give you the right exercises to fix them. Our practitioner, Dr Vivek Sharma, is certified by the peak international body, the BCIA.
