Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time monitoring of brain activity to teach people how to self-regulate their brain function. A recording of the electrical activity in the brain is taken using an electroencephalography (EEG), and the practitioner provides feedback to the individual through visual, auditory, or tactile signals. This feedback helps individuals learn how to modulate their brain waves, aiming to optimise its function.

“It’s the gym for your brain,” says expert Eva Larragay. “Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, and painless technique that trains the brain to work in the way we want it to work.” A process begins with an initial assessment of brain activity. A practitioner places a set of electrodes on a patient’s scalp to get information fed back into the EEG scan. Based on the assessment, specific goals are set. The feedback mechanism (auditory, visual or tactile) responds in real-time to the brain’s activity, rewarding specific brainwave patterns and discouraging other ones. We can train the brain to turn on or turn off. We can train specific brain patterns like Alpha waves, which are associated with deep relaxation, creativity and focus. It is important to note that this technique does not require the patient to speak in any way. When dealing with mental struggles, often times the last thing a person wants to do is speak about it. Neurofeedback is one of the ways we can heal silently. Over multiple sessions, the brain can learn to produce desired brainwaves more consistently, leading to improved self-regulation.