What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback (or neurotherapy) is a type of biofeedback for the brain. When frequencies in the brain are too fast, too slow or not functioning at an optimal level, this can lead to a range of symptoms and conditions including anxiety, mood disturbances, learning difficulties, ADHD, developmental delay, and sleep disturbance. 

Neurofeedback is endorsed by the American Academy of Paediatrics as their preferred evidence-based treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and research indicates it may help your child to calm down, pay better attention in school, and to fall asleep quicker at night.

Neurofeedback therapy is also used to treat other childhood developmental conditions such as ASD and learning difficulties.

What does a Neurofeedback session look like?

The electrical activity in the brain is detected and monitored in real time by placing a small number of electrodes on the scalp. A tiny amount of conductive paste is placed on each electrode which enables them to stay in place and allows for the transmittance of electrical signals.  This system is called an Electroencephalograph or EEG.  An initial mini-map is conducted and this EEG output is interpreted and used to set protocols to “train the brain” based on what the client (and/or parent) and practitioner are trying to achieve. Measurements of brainwave activity are displayed back to the client through visual and audio displays (i.e. movies, video games, etc). When your brain makes more or less of the selected brainwaves, then the feedback changes so that the movie becomes clearer or fuzzier, or the game moves faster or slower. A normal session may last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the child. Neurofeedback is a learning process, and therefore it is impossible to predict the number of sessions required in order to change and consolidate brain function. While one person might need 15 or 20 sessions, another might require up to 40 sessions.