What is Neurofeedback Therapy: The Complete Guide
Brain training using neurofeedback therapy has paved the way for meaningful, positive changes in the lives of countless individuals. The growing scientific literature on this approach as well as the milestones we see our clients achieve daily is a remarkable confirmation of the real, measurable benefits neurofeedback can deliver. The results are so accurate that we offer a money-back guarantee if there is no improvement after the sessions.
On this page, we deliver some key information to provide further clarity on what is neurofeedback therapy and the science behind it. We walk you through how each neurofeedback session is conducted in our facility, using a specialist-led, scientifically-proven technology. Moreover, we collated some of the most important studies, research and peer-reviewed articles in recent history that dive deep into the efficacy of neurofeedback to manage a wide range of issues, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, as well as improving brain performance and more.
Topics and Questions
- What is Neurofeedback?
- What is Brain Mapping?
- What Happens in a Brain Mapping Session?
- Know the Different Brainwaves
- What Happens During a Neurofeedback Session?
- What to Expect from Neurofeedback Sessions?
- The Benefits of Neurofeedback Brain Training
- Does Brain Training Work for ADHD?
- Neurofeedback for Peak Performance
- Medication and Neurofeedback
- Where Can We Sign Up for Neurofeedback in Dubai?
What is Neurofeedback?
What is neurofeedback? How is neurofeedback different from biofeedback? Is neurofeedback a viable alternative to medication? How does neurofeedback help with brain training? If you are looking for answers to these questions, let us help you with this comprehensive guide.
Neurofeedback is biofeedback for the brain. It is a non-invasive technique that helps the brain self-regulate. Improving the brain’s self-regulation helps an individual function better cognitively, emotionally as well as behaviorally.
During a neurofeedback session, we simply measure brain activity using sensors and special software and relay that information back to the brain in real-time via audio and video display. This information about its own activity helps the brain adjust itself for better performance.
Neurofeedback can be a useful tool for anyone looking to maximize their brain’s potential and performance, whether it be athletes wishing to improve their game, adults interested in sharpening their memory, or children dealing with ADHD.
Does Neurofeedback Work?
What is Brain Mapping?
Brain mapping is an assessment tool that maps your brain wave activity, and tells you what areas of your brain need attention. This session is perfect for people who suspect they are facing mental health concerns, but are not able to pinpoint them.
Brain mapping is also for people who are curious to know more about how their brains function and what they can improve on. Various issues like focus, anxiety, ADHD, depression, insomnia, fatigue and many more are identified in a brain mapping session. The process also tells you where exactly in the brain these issues arise from, and to what extent they persist.
What Happens in a Brain Mapping Session?
*Note: This video was taken before covid-19. All necessary measures such as sanitization, safe distance and being masked at all times are adhered to.
During brain mapping, EEG scanners are used to measure electrical signals in different brain areas. These signals are statistically analyzed to see brainwave patterns. The EEG data is then recorded and processed by a computer software program. This data is compared against a reference database of other people’s EEG. A Quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain map helps us detect the brain area where there is too little or too much activity. It helps to identify amplitude, location and dysregulation. All these are required to understand adequate levels of the client’s mental functioning. If electrical activity is outside the normal parameters, it gives us an indication of possible problems. Brain mapping is a precursor to neurofeedback brain training as it helps in devising an appropriate training plan.
![](https://evolvebraintraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/brain-mapping-280x300.png)
Know the Different Brainwaves
Neurons in the brain communicate with each other by electrical exchange. This electrical activity is displayed in the form of brainwaves which can be observed using electroencephalogram (EEG).
Delta waves are the slowest brainwave. These are the most relaxing brainwaves. A delta wave appears when you’re asleep. It measures from 0-4 Hz and has the highest amplitude.
Theta waves have greater amplitude. The frequency range is 5-7 Hz. Theta state is seen during light sleep or deep meditation. In this state you may experience vivid visualizations, profound creativity, flow of ideas and exceptional insight.
Alpha waves are produced naturally when you close your eyes and relax. Alpha brain waves are in the frequency range of 8 to 13 Hz. During this state your brain is said to be awake and relaxed.
Beta waves are known as high frequency, low-amplitude waves that are commonly observed while we are awake. The frequency of beta waves is 14-40 Hz. These involve conscious tasks such as critical thinking, writing, reading and socialization seen in day-to-day lives.
Gamma waves are the fastest of brain waves with high frequency. These are observed when processing information from different brain areas simultaneously. Gamma brainwaves pass information rapidly and quietly.
Research indicates brain wave patterns are linked with emotional and neurological conditions. Brain mapping shows brain waves that are associated with over-arousal in certain areas result in fidgeting, impulsivity, hyperactivity and agitation. Under-arousal in certain brain areas is linked to poor concentration, insomnia and daydreaming.
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*Photo from choosemuse.com
How Does Neurofeedback Work?
What Happens During a Neurofeedback Session?
Neurons in our brains talk to each other through synapses which produce the resulting brain waves. At the start of the neurofeedback session, we attach sensors to the scalp which record these brain waves. This process is completely painless and non-invasive.
We do not transmit any signals to the brain; we only listen in on the electrical activity and record the information revealed through EEG. A computer then processes these brain waves and using the software, we show you the ebb and flow of your waves in the form of changes in audio and video output.
The specific frequencies we select and sensor locations on the scalp are uniquely tailored to suit your personal needs. These can vary as you progress through your brain training sessions.
To better understand how neurofeedback works, picture an individual sitting down and focusing on a computer screen. Sensors are attached to the person’s scalp to record their brain activity, and special software relays this brainwave information to them in real time through audio and video.
What to Expect from Neurofeedback Sessions?
A neurofeedback brain training session typically lasts approximately 45 minutes. Training takes 30 minutes, while around 15 minutes are required to collect feedback and prepare the equipment for the session. Normally a minimum of 20 sessions is recommended to experience lasting benefits, although you will start noticing changes within the first few sessions.
The number of sessions required, however, depends upon the intensity and duration of the problem. Being consistent is extremely important to experience the benefits. Every individual is different, and so is their brain. Therefore, neurofeedback therapy for memory improvement, ADHD, anxiety and depression is tailor-made to suit your specific needs.
The Benefits of Neurofeedback Brain Training
- ADHD- read more
- Anger Management- read more
- Anxiety- read more
- Depression- read more
- Learning disabilities- read more
- Memory loss- read more
- Migraine- read more
- Peak performance- read more
- Sleep disorder- read more
- Stress- read more
Does Neurofeedback Brain Training Work for ADHD?
Neurofeedback makes brain training increasingly feasible. A non-invasive NASA-patented technology, neurofeedback has proven success in addressing different health issues such as focus, depression, anxiety, chronic pain and insomnia. Neurofeedback has also been observed to improve neuroregulation and metabolic function in patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
There is substantial support for using neurofeedback for ADHD as a supplementary treatment from certain medical professionals, specifically some from the ADHD community. One example is Amit Etkin, Ph.D., who is an assistant professor at Stanford University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He says, “The potential for brain training as a new therapeutic tool is phenomenal… By understanding brain circuitry, we can tailor interventions that medication or psychotherapy do not access or improve. The great advantage is that these programs are not invasive, have minimal side effects, and are, for the most part, fun.”
In addition, there are testimonials from parents of children with ADHD who report observing significant control of ADHD symptoms beyond the duration of their children’s neurofeedback therapy sessions. The result? A person’s brain will be able to self-regulate its functions and apply the skills learned to various real-world situations. Studies that have shown longevity of results have reported the same findings.
Neurofeedback therapy could help a person (could be a child or an adult) enhance their memory, improve focus and attention, get better sleep, calm anxiety, elevate athletic performance, or reduce hyperactive or impulsive behavior.
Client Stories
Neurofeedback and ADHD
From low motivation to 120% better focus
Are There Any Neurofeedback Therapy Side Effects?
Can You Use Neurofeedback for Memory Improvement?
Client Stories
Neurofeedback for sharper memory
The result? Happier, energized personal relationships
Neurofeedback for Peak Performance
As neurofeedback trains your brain to function more efficiently, it can improve mental functioning and emotional stability, leading to better concentration and attention. It reduces human error, enhances creativity and increases immunity to stress. With regular sessions, you can teach yourself better self-control, develop self-awareness and build emotional intelligence, so you can be at your best no matter what circumstances you face.
Neurofeedback is used by amateur and professional athletes, academics and high-performing business individuals to maximize and use the full capacity of his or her brain.
The self-regulation techniques involved in neurofeedback training represent powerful tools for peak performance in many fields. There is global research on this subject highlighting the key performance of ace achievers in fields that require heavy concentration and “being in the zone.” Training their brain via neurofeedback allows one to quiet their mind, and regulate their mental and emotional environment and thereby concentrate more thoroughly. This kind of training provides indispensable tools for both daily life and states highly conducive to peak performance on the field, in school or at work.
Client Stories
Achieve peak mental performance
Anxiety replaced by calmer, clearer thinking
Medication and Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback presents a powerful and medicine-free way to fix both common and complex issues, from temporary issues to lifelong conditions. It is a promising alternative treatment for those who do not respond to or experience significant adverse effects from medication. Can neurofeedback be used while a patient is on medication? Yes. Data and our clinical experience confirm that under your physician’s supervision, it is possible to slowly wean off your medications when you start your neurofeedback program. Eventually, you will perform at your best without the aid of medication.
Where Can We Sign Up for Neurofeedback in Dubai?
You, only happier and healthier. It all starts in the brain.
Ask us anything about neurofeedback today. We’re here to help.
+971 4 589 6983Is Neurofeedback Scientifically Proven?
While backed by documented evidence, neurofeedback is still a relatively new methodology. As such, this question continues to be asked and deserves to be answered: “Is there scientific evidence proving that neurofeedback works?”
The following collection of neurofeedback resources provides a solid reference point for anyone interested in further study.
What does science say about neurofeedback? In a nutshell, existing literature indicates sufficient and continuously growing evidence-based information on the use of neurofeedback as a treatment for specific neurological conditions.
- Neurofeedback in Scientific Literature
- Who Can Benefit From Neurofeedback Brain Training?
- Neurofeedback and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity-Disorder (ADHD) in Children: Rating the Evidence and Proposed Guidelines. Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback 45, 39–48 (2020).
- Efficacy of Neurofeedback Treatment in ADHD: The Effects on Inattention, Impulsivity and Hyperactivity: A Meta-Analysis. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience, 40(3).
- Evidence-based information on the clinical use of neurofeedback for ADHD. Neurotherapeutics, 9(3), 588-98.
- Current status of neurofeedback for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Current Psychiatry Rep. 14(5), 536-42.
- Update on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Current Opinion in Pediatrics, 16(2), 217-226.
- Is neurofeedback an efficacious treatment for ADHD? A randomised controlled clinical trial. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 50(7), 780-789.
- Neurofeedback training improves anxiety trait and depressive symptom in GAD. Brain and Behavior. 11. 10.1002/brb3.2024.
- Using Neurofeedback to Lower Anxiety Symptoms Using Individualized qEEG Protocols: A Pilot Study. NeuroRegulation, 2(3), 137-148.
- Alpha Suppression and Symmetry Training for Generalized Anxiety Symptoms. Journal of Neurotherapy, 13, 146–155.
- Neurofeedback Treatment of Depression and Anxiety. Journal of Adult Development 12(2), 131-137.
- Neurofeedback with anxiety and affective disorders. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 14(1), 105-123.
- Treatment of Chronic Anxiety Disorder with Neurotherapy. Journal of Neurotherapy, 2(2).
- Neurofeedback training improves anxiety trait and depressive symptom in GAD.
- Treatment of Anxiety Disorder with Neurofeedback: Case Study
- Frontal alpha asymmetry neurofeedback for the reduction of negative affect and anxiety.
- Real-Time Functional Connectivity-Informed Neurofeedback of Amygdala-Frontal Pathways Reduces Anxiety.
- A Neurofeedback Protocol for Executive Function to Reduce Depression and Rumination: A Controlled Study. Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience. 2020;18(3):375-385.
- Neurofeedback and networks of depression. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 16 (1).
- Neurofeedback treatments for depression disorders- review of current advances. Journal of Computer Science and Technology, 7(3), 443-452.
- Neurofeedback as a Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder – A Pilot Study, PLoS One, 9(3).
- Neurofeedback Treatment of Depression with the Roshi. Journal of Neurotherapy, 4(2).
- Clinical Use of an Alpha Asymmetry Neurofeedback Protocol in the Treatment of Mood Disorders. Journal of Neurotherapy, 4(4).
- Review of EEG-based neurofeedback as a therapeutic intervention to treat depression.
- Enhancing learning in a perceptual-cognitive training paradigm using EEG-neurofeedback. Scientific Reports, 11, 4061 (2021).
- The Relation Between Memory Improvement and QEEG Changes in Three Clinical Groups as a Result of EEG Biofeedback Treatment. Journal of Neurotherapy, 17(2).
- Neurofeedback training for peak performance. Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine, 21(4), 871–875.
- Biofeedback Training for Peak Performance in Sport - Case Study. Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences, 3(2).
- Peak Performance Training Using Prefrontal EEG Biofeedback. Biofeedback, 40(1), 7–15.
- Neurofeedback for Peak Performance Training. journal of Mental Health Counseling, 3(2), 116-123.
- Alpha-theta brainwave neurofeedback training: an effective treatment for male and female alcoholics with depressive symptoms. J Clin Psychol, 51(5), 685-693.
- Applicability of brain wave biofeedback to substance use disorder in adolescents. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 14(1), 125-36.
- Neurofeedback Training for Opiate Addiction: Improvement of Mental Health and Craving. Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback, 38, 133–141.
- Effects of an EEG Biofeedback Protocol on a Mixed Substance Abusing Population. The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 31, 455-469.
- Neurofeedback in Alcohol and Drug Dependency. Introduction to Quantitative EEG and Neurofeedback, 239-267.
- Tuning pathological brain oscillations with neurofeedback: a systems neuroscience framework. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, Article 1008.
- Neurofeedback Training Induces Changes in White and Gray Matter. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience, 265-272.
- Closed-loop brain training: the science of neurofeedback. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 18, 86-100.
- A Review of qEEG-Guided Neurofeedback. Neuroregulation, 2(3).
- Neurofeedback: A Comprehensive Review on System Design, Methodology and Clinical Applications. Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, 7(2), 143-158.
- Comparing the Effectiveness of Neurofeedback and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Sleep Quality of Patients With Migraine. Basic Clinical Neuroscience. 2019;10(6):579-588.
- Clinical and Psychological Confirmation of Stabilizing Effect of Neurofeedback in Migraine | European Psychiatry | Cambridge Core
- QEEG-guided neurofeedback for recurrent migraine headaches. Clinical EEG and Neuroscience. 2011 Jan;42(1):59-61.
Where Can We Sign Up for Neurofeedback in Dubai?
Evolve Brain Training is a regional leader in the use of neurofeedback as an effective method for addressing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety and anger management. Reach out to us to learn if neurofeedback therapy is the right fit for you.
![](https://evolvebraintraining.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/upsana-bio-image.png)
Dr. Upasana Gala is the founder and CEO of Evolve Brain Training, a neurofeedback-centered institute that focuses on using non-invasive brain training techniques to maximize the brain's true potential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Neurofeedback
How many sessions will I need?
Are the effects of neurofeedback long-lasting?
What are the side effects of neurofeedback?
Does neurofeedback work for depression?
Is neurofeedback safe for children?
Can I do neurofeedback if I am undergoing other therapies?
What happens during a neurofeedback session?
Can I do neurofeedback at home?
Ask us your question about neurofeedback today. We’re here to help.
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