The human brain and central nervous system are naturally self-regulating, allowing us to transition smoothly between states of calm, arousal, relaxation, and concentration. However, this capacity can be reduced by factors such as prolonged distress, disease, chronic pain, drugs, head injuries, and congenital conditions. This neurological dysregulation can result in impaired self-regulation, manifesting as behavioural or emotional health problems, or sub-optimal performance in daily activities and relationships. Typically, this involves different parts of the brain being over- or under-activated compared to expectations.
Our neurofeedback process begins with a clinical assessment of emotional, behavioural, and cognitive symptoms, along with an EEG assessment of neurological functioning. Using current research, we develop a treatment plan targeting brain areas and rhythms to produce desired changes.
During sessions, we use highly sensitive EEG equipment and sensors attached to the scalp to monitor brain activity and provide visual and/or auditory feedback via computer software, enabling individuals to modify their brainwaves in the desired direction. No electrical signals are transmitted into the brain.
We utilise both traditional frequency band training and the new generation Infra Low Frequency (ILF) neurofeedback. Single or dual-channel neurofeedback has the most substantial evidence base and allows for individualised treatments based on symptoms, neurological patterns, and client response. In contrast, some variations of neurofeedback use a one-size-fits-all approach based on set computer algorithms, with little research support.
Neurofeedback can sometimes achieve profound changes that have not been reached with standard therapies. Symptom changes are often noticed within the first few sessions but enduring change typically requires at least 10 sessions.
See the video below to hear world renowned trauma expert, Professor Bessel van der Kolk, discussing the use of neurofeedback for people who have experienced trauma:
Significant reduction in symptoms of social anxiety in children aged 6-8 years of age, compared with a control group, after 16 sessions of neurofeedback (Fallah et al. 2024)
Meta-analysis of 10 studies comparing neurofeedback to a control group for PTSD treatment reported a consistent benefit of neurofeedback vs control groups across diverse populations, with different types of trauma (Askovic et al. 2024).
Meta analysis of 22 studies investigating the use of neurofeedback for depression treatment identifies a significant benefit of neurofeedback treatment in reducing depression symptoms and improving neuropsychological functioning (Xia et al. 2024).
A systematic review of 18 studies using Infra Low Frequency (ILF) neurofeedback reports "great potential" for the use of ILF neurofeedback to enhance the regulation of brain activity and neurophysiological processes (Bazzana et al. 2022).