Neurofeedback training works by re-aligning brainwaves while you watch a movie or video of your choice. Multiple studies show that with properly aligned brainwaves, your brain will be more resilient when facing stress, become more calm, and operate more efficiently.

How does neurofeedback work?

Neurofeedback does not directly target conditions and symptoms; it corrects irregular brainwaves and modifies timing patterns in the brain. This is achieved over multiple neurofeedback sessions, as the brain is re-trained into normal patterns. The result is improved brain regulation, which can improve many types of symptoms from inattention to insomnia.

Think of your brain as a choir of trained singers. The sound is harmonious when all the singers are using their proper keys. However, the overall sound is affected if the Alto section is out of tune.

Brainwaves operate similarly, working together to keep your mind and body in sync and running smoothly. If any brainwaves are off, it can cause you to suffer conditions like anxiety, depression, memory problems and insomnia and can even decrease mental acuity, as with ADD or Autism.

Neurofeedback helps teach the brain to regulate its brainwaves properly, which can result in better mental and physical health.

Neurofeedback is not new.

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that has been around since the 1960s. Decades of research and case studies document its effectiveness in improving brain health.

Advances in computer technology have made it possible for doctors and health care professionals to administer neurofeedback in their clinics easily, and even allow patients to do neurofeedback therapy in the privacy of their own home using the latest home training equipment and software available exclusively through the practitioner.

What does an average training session look like?

Neurofeedback works primarily by monitoring brainwaves on the surface of your head. To start, small electrodes are placed on your scalp. These electrodes have a paste on them, which makes it easier to pick up brainwave patterns. For the next 30 minutes, you watch a movie or video of your choice. The training is easy and pleasant to do.

While the computer monitors your brainwaves, it uses real-time data to create changes in the audio and visual inputs from the movie. These changes get your attention and bring your brain back into focus. Refocusing helps correct the imbalance of brainwaves, which then move into the normal range. At that time, the movie or music will resume normally.

This process is called Operant Conditioning. Throughout multiple sessions, the brain eventually learns to maintain healthy patterns independently, at which point no further neurofeedback sessions are needed.

Get Started with Neurofeedback

Take the first step with a free consultation to see if neurofeedback could help you. Contact our Wheaton, Illinois clinic at 630-254-0766 to learn more and see all the conditions neurofeedback can address. See our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more and find out more about the research available.