Neurofeedback also referred to as EEG Biofeedback or Neurotherapy is a safe and non-invasive evidenced based therapy that uses technology to directly engage brain wave activity so one can function more effectively.  It is a similar concept to Biofeedback therapy wherein an individual, learns to control some of the bodies physiological activity in order to improve a health condition, for example reducing severe panic or anxiety.


  Neurofeedback enables an individual to monitor and alter their brain wave patterns to improve neural functioning.  So what are brain waves? Brain waves carry information and assist the Central Nervous System in regulating bodily functions, for example our sleeping patterns or how we think.  Think of Neurofeedback as a personal trainer for your brain. Personal trainers challenge you to improve and achieve your desired goal.  Another way to describe how Neurofeedback works is similar to the notion of how you learn to drive a car, once you constantly practice you begin to get the hang of it, then over time it becomes a natural reflex.  We are basically challenging your brain to learn to drive and eventually the effects are long term!  The more the brain is trained over time the changes ‘stick’.  Neurofeedback has the ability to access your ‘core’ functioning on a deeper level, when our brain is working at its optimal level our awareness and focus improves.


Neurofeedback is clinically proven and an effective tool in treating ADHD and trauma based disorders such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).  It works to ameliorate brain dysregulation, addressing the underlying cause of the problem and at the same time in conjunction with counselling can assist an individual to integrate their experience and self heal.

The video below describes what Neurofeedback is and how it can help.


"Experience with neurofeedback has reinforced my view that attachment is hardwired and secured through affect regulation. Although neurofeedback appears to address brain function in many arenas, I think that its most important contribution is the regulation of affect. Most of what we suffer, whatever name or diagnosis it is given, relates to our ability to regulate affect."

Sebern Fisher

The table below describes the different brain wave patterns we produce.  Too much or too little of a particular brain wave can be problematic.   For example, if we have too little alpha waves it may lead to problems with getting to sleep.

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Brainwaves reflect different states of arousal. Modification in training protocol is made to the selected brain waves based on the characteristics of arousal level reported. It can take up to 5 sessions to find the optimal training protocol for each individual.

Over-arousal Symptoms

With over-arousal symptoms there is a tendency to have excess high beta brain waves and decreased sensori-motor rhythm (SMR) brain waves. Treatment goal for over-arousal symptoms is to reduce the level of high beta waves, and increase SMR waves. A reduction in excess energy levels allow the mind and body to be more relaxed and calmer, yet alert at the same time.

Examples of an ‘over-aroused’ brain:

  • Busy mind/ many competing thoughts

  • Impulsive

  • Fidgety

  • Hyperactive

  • Easily bored

  • Risk seeker

  • Impatient

  • Agitated

  • Aggressive

  • Anxious/ fearful

  • Tense

  • Feel overwhelmed

  • Heart Palpitation

  • Frequent tension headaches

  • Holds resentments

  • Difficulty falling asleep

 

Under-arousal Symptoms

With under-arousal symptoms there is a tendency to have excess theta brain waves and decreased SMR brain waves. The treatment goal for under-arousal is to reduce the level of theta waves, the level of drowsiness, and increase SMR waves. At the end of each training session, you should feel more awake, focused and motivated.

Examples of an ‘under-aroused’ brain:

  • ADHD – inattentive presentation

  • Poor concentration

  • Inattentive

  • Distractibility

  • Frequent day dreaming

  • Feeling spacey or foggy

  • Forgetful

  • Lack of motivation

  • Likes Caffeine

  • Depression/ low mood

  • Lethargy

  • Sensitive/ feelings easily hurt

  • Frequent wake at night

  • Not feeling rested after sleep

  • Falls asleep in low stimulation situations

  • Low self-esteem

Recommended Reading:

  • The Brain that Changes Itself: stories of personal triumph from the frontiers of brain science.  Norman Doidge, 2010. 

  •  Neurofeedback in the the Treatment of Developmental Trauma: Calming the Fear-Driven Brain. Sebern Fisher, 2014.

  • The Body Keeps the Score: Brain Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma.  Bessel Van Der Kolk M.D.  2014.

  • Getting Rid of Ritalin: How Neurofeedback Can Successfully Treat Attention Deficit Disorder Without Drugs.  Robert W. Hill, PhD & Eduardo Castro, MD.  Hampton Roads Publishing Company Inc., Charlottesville, VA 2002. 

  • A Symphony in the Brain: The Revolution of the New Brain Wave Biofeedback.  Jim Robbins.  Atlantic Monthly Press, New York. 2000.

  • ADD: The 20 Hour Solution.  Mark Steinberg & Siegfried Othmer.  Robert D.  Reed Publishers.  Bandon Oregon 2004.


Scientific Reviews:

Scientific studies indicate that Neurofeedback is able to produce significant improvements in symptoms of ADHD, addictions, epilepsy and PTSD.  There is considerable evidence in clinical practice that neurofeedback can improve a large variety of disorders including depression, anxiety, sleep disorders and traumatic brain injury.

Click on the article links below to read neurofeedback scientific reviews: