Neurofeedback training, a non-invasive and non-drug based brain training practise, is a way in which you can train your brain and strengthen your neural pathways.
In a neurofeedback session, your brain activity will be analysed to determine what it is actually doing compared to what you would ideally like it to be doing. With the right programme you can then reward your brain to reinforce brain activity that you want to encourage more of.
Similar to how physical exercise allows you to target and strengthen specific muscles and muscle groups, the more you exercise your brain the better it gets at reaching a comfortable and efficient state.
Below we have offered more details on what happens during a neurofeedback session.
The First Step – Consultation
The first step is to get in touch. Most people have questions, and we are happy to provide a free consultation. For any queries, please contact us.
To get to know you and give us a clearer idea if neurofeedback is right for you, we will ask you questions about your goals, history, and symptoms (if any).
The Second Step – Training Plan
The next step is to identify what is blocking your way, and design your brain training programme.
This is done via a QEEG brain map. A brain map involves a set of sensors fixed to a cap; it looks and feels like a swimming cap. The sensors listen to the electrical impulses from your brain, giving us details of your brain activity so we can design your brain training programme.
This assessment time also gives you the chance to meet your neurofeedback therapist, see what we do, and find out what you can expect from the training.
The Third Step – Neurofeedback Sessions
A neurofeedback therapist runs the session; you recline in a comfortable chair while the sensor cap reads your brain activity. This activity animates brain-generated feedback in the form of a video, a game, or music (what is neurofeedback).
One-to-one LoRETA neurofeedback sessions are 40 to 45 minutes of actual training time (often shorter for children). Every few sessions, we do a fresh QEEG brain map to track, modify and adjust your training to ensure best results and up-to-date training.
Both our assessments and sessions are conducted either in-clinic or at home via our remote service.
What Can I Expect from a Neurofeedback Session?
You should expect one of our skilled technicians to guide you through the equipment being used, the purpose of the session, and what you might expect to take from it.
Next, you will be instructed on how the session will be carried out before the session starts.
You should not experience any pain, and as a non-invasive and non-drug therapy approach you should experience minimal side effects. Some people do find that they are tired after sessions, much like you would be after training physically in the gym.
When Will I See Results From My Neurofeedback Session?
How soon and what kind of results you experience following your neurofeedback sessions will be somewhat unique and individual, as everyone’s brain is different and therefore everyone has a different experience when using neurofeedback training. Generally speaking the more sessions you have, the more long-lasting and intense the results may be.
Before Your Neurofeedback Sessions
Before your session you will have an assessment which provides some time for us to answer any questions you may have, and allows you to get familiar with our training equipment.
Please ensure that you arrive with clean dry hair and minimum (or none) hair product. A clean scalp and hair allows the sensors we use to work the most effectively. Your assessment will take about 90 minutes, and allows us to plan your training to align with your main goals.
In this assessment you should also let us know about any prescription drugs that you take and the purpose of each, such medicines may affect the neurofeedback process and how we apporach your brain training program. Please refrain from using alcohol and/or other recreational drugs for at least 24 hours before and after your neurofeedback training session.
Please note: Decisions regarding medication must be handled by your GP, physician, and/or psychiatrist. In fact you should liaise with your healthcare providers and/or therapist before undertaking any new training program or therapy approach.