Neurofeedback treatment is a method of training the brain to self-regulate by providing audiovisual feedback based on brain wave activity. Neurofeedback allows the brain to see and hear its own activity in real-time. The brain naturally learns to modulate input and output, resulting in the development of new neural pathways, or neuroplasticity. The mechanism on which neurofeedback acts is called neuroplasticity, which refers to the ongoing structural and functional changes neurons undergo to develop, survive, learn and adapt to changes over time. In other words, the brain is constantly changing itself to maximize energy efficiency. Today, neurofeedback treatment is being used as one of the best addiction treatment therapies.
The brain uses glucose as its only form of energy. Cells in the brain and nervous system are necessarily energy efficient because the brain can use a disproportionately high percentage of calories compared to its mass. So, it is no wonder that the brain defaults toward using established neural pathways rather than forming new ones, which takes more calories. The more a pathway is used, the more energy-efficient it becomes and the less conscious thought it requires to activate. Neurofeedback is one way to formulate new, healthy pathways as an alternative to established, unhealthy pathways and the bad habits that use them.
How does it work?
Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback treatment that utilizes electroencephalography (EEG) to measure and record brain waves. Measuring the alpha, beta, delta, and theta (sometimes gamma) brain waves or other measurements, the neurofeedback software program compares the data to those of healthy persons and provides feedback based on brain wave analyses. Brain wave analyses are interfaced with images and sounds to train the brain how to function at a more optimal range. In other words, neurofeedback and resulting neuroplasticity result in new neural pathways for the regulation of thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
What does neurofeedback feel like?
Neurofeedback treatment is comfortable, relaxing, and enjoyable. Neurofeedback protocols and procedures vary somewhat by the institution. After an initial assessment and discussion of the training program, the person is seated in a comfortable chair in a room free of distractions, where the neurofeedback specialist applies sensors to specific areas of the head. Real-time brain activity is displayed on a computer screen, and feedback signals are given according to training modality.
The person sits quietly for a period of time, usually 20 to 40 minutes, and is asked to relax, focus on the screen, and remain still until the session is complete. Neurofeedback usually constitutes a minimum of 12 sessions within 30 days, three times a week for four weeks. Each session lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. The best results are reported after between 20 to 40 sessions.
There are no X-rays, no mind-reading or manipulation, and no side effects of neurofeedback. However, neurofeedback can result in symptoms associated with computer use, such as headache or eye strain. Furthermore, neurofeedback does not always produce the desired results in every case.
Who benefits from neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is most effective when used as an adjunct to the individual’s treatment as designed by his or her treatment team. Clients seek neurofeedback for a multitude of reasons, most seeking help with self-regulation and volitional control of behavior. Other reasons that people seek neurofeedback have been related to anxiety, problems with attention, insomnia, depression, obsessive thinking, substance use, and relapse prevention.