Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is an evidence-based, non-invasive, and drug-free therapy

Over 50 years ago, researchers at the UCLA School of Medicine discovered that neurofeedback could prevent seizures. Although initially used to treat epilepsy, the beneficial uses of neurofeedback have expanded to include various neurological disorders including ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, depression, sensory issues, and migraines. It is a non-triggering, low-barrier treatment that does not rely on conscious effort or learning to relax.

Neurofeedback helps the brain respond appropriately to its environment. 

If the “fight or flight” system is overactive, the brain perceives even innocuous sensory inputs as threats. Another part of the brain, called the prefrontal cortex, has the job of calming this reactivity. If this area is under-functioning, then the brain’s “voice of reason” is not strong enough to override a constant state of alarm. Neurofeedback resets the stress response by calming and strengthening where needed. Other areas of the brain can be treated as well, such as those that relate to attention, motivation, optimism, learning, emotional expression, mood swings, and chronic pain.

Neurofeedback takes advantage of the brain’s ability to learn

Our brains can learn new patterns throughout our lives. We create new connections and prune away unused pathways through a process called neuroplasticity. The brain learns by forming and strengthening connections between brain cells and different areas of the brain. The more frequently we utilize a pathway, the better the brain becomes at performing the associated task. This is an advantage when we learn something positive and useful, but a disadvantage when we develop negative mental patterns that can hold us back. Neurofeedback can strengthen positive patterns in order to overcome negative ones.

Neurofeedback works by enhancing the brain’s ability to self-regulate

Self-regulation is the ability to adjust or control the level of alertness depending on the time of the day and the stimuli presented.  This means that the brain can smoothly shift between states of lower and higher arousal in order to complete the task at hand. For example, when we need to pay attention or solve a problem, our brains are active and use a faster frequency called Beta. When we wind down to go to sleep, a different part of the brain takes over and we shift into a slower state called Alpha. Good self-regulation means that the brain can select the right “gear” and that it can “shift gears” appropriately. A brain with good self-regulation achieves healthy patterns of mood and behavior.

Neurofeedback can help the brain restore optimal functioning

During treatment, the brain’s electrical signals (brain waves) are recorded with a device called an electroencephalograph (EEG). Sensors placed on the scalp pick up these EEG signals from the brain and send them to an amplifier so they can be interpreted by a computer. Specialized software breaks the EEG signals into four frequency bands (alpha, beta, delta, and theta) to identify patterns of dysregulation. The practitioner selects a specific frequency to be played back to the brain using visual (a video or game), auditory (music) and tactile (gentle vibration) cues that provide the brain with feedback on its performance. For example, in the video game a race car might speed up and slow down or when watching a movie, the picture gets bigger and smaller. Patients can also hold a stuffed animal that is designed to vibrate as part of the feedback process. This feedback provides a “mirror” so that the brain can “see” its own activity and adjust it in real time. The brain uses this information to improve self-regulation, which supports better function. It is non-conscious learning that, with repetition, can be long-lasting. 

How is Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) neurofeedback unique?

• ILF neurofeedback is a specific method of neurofeedback that plays back the brain’s activity in a frequency that ranges from 10 to 0.0001 millihertz. Research indicates that neurofeedback training with ultra-low frequencies stimulates the brain’s connectivity.1

• Different brains work best with different feedback frequencies. ILF has the ability to adjust the training frequency for the best outcome for the individual. 

• ILF neurofeedback also uses the patient’s own brain activity for the neurofeedback to show the brain its functioning in real time, unlike other styles of neurofeedback that use a “reference” or “average” brain activity to train against. 

• Unlike some other styles of neurofeedback, ILF does not input any energy into the brain. 

• Unlike biofeedback, it is a passive, non-verbal therapy that does not require any conscious effort on the part of the patient. 

• ILF neurofeedback mimics the natural process by which all brains learn to self-regulate. It augments this process with real-time information and relevant cues in the form of auditory, visual, and tactile feedback. 

1. Dobrushina, O., Vlasova, R., Rumshiskaya, A., Litvinova, L., Mershina, E., Sinitsyn, V. & Pechenkova, E. (2020). Modulation of Intrinsic Brain Connectivity by Implicit Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 14: 192.