What Is Neurofeedback? How It Works and Who It Helps

Short answer: neurofeedback is a non-invasive form of biofeedback. Sensors on the scalp read your brain's electrical activity, and a computer gives you real-time feedback, usually through sound or video, whenever your brain moves toward a more regulated pattern. Over many sessions, the brain learns to produce those patterns more easily.

How a Session Works

1. Sensors are placed on the scalp. They only listen. Nothing is sent into the brain.
2. You watch or listen. A show or tone plays smoothly when your brain activity moves in the target direction, and dims or pauses when it drifts.
3. Your brain adjusts. Much like learning any skill, it gradually learns which patterns earn the reward.

Sessions are relaxing and typically last 30 to 60 minutes. Most people need a series of sessions to see lasting change, and your provider will track progress along the way.

Who Neurofeedback May Help

• Anxiety and chronic stress
• Insomnia and sleep problems
• Migraines and tension headaches
• Chronic pain, where the nervous system has become sensitized
• Focus and attention, and recovery after a head injury or whiplash

What the Research Shows

Research on neurofeedback is strongest for attention, and it is growing for anxiety, sleep and other conditions. It isn't a cure, and results vary from person to person. We use it as one part of a complete plan, never as a replacement for medical or mental health care, and we work alongside your physician or counselor.

How Neurofeedback Fits Our Approach

The nervous system influences pain, sleep, muscle tension and breathing. When it stays on high alert, the body has a harder time healing. That's why neurofeedback often pairs well with breathing retraining, acupuncture and movement-based care in our integrated approach. Our pre-surgical rehab client and bone health client both used neurofeedback as part of their care.

Learn more on our neurofeedback service page.

We accept health insurance as an out-of-network provider, auto insurance claims, workers comp claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is neurofeedback safe?

Neurofeedback is non-invasive. The sensors only record brain activity, and nothing is sent into the brain. Some people feel tired or briefly wired after early sessions.

How many sessions will I need?

It varies. Most people need a series of sessions, and your provider will review progress regularly so you know whether it's helping.

Does neurofeedback replace therapy or medication?

No. It works alongside care from your physician or mental health provider.

Can children do neurofeedback?

Many neurofeedback programs work with children and teens. Ask our team whether it's a good fit for your child.