What Is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback (also called EEG biofeedback) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that uses real-time monitoring of brain electrical activity to teach self-regulation of brain function. During a session, sensors are placed on the scalp to measure brainwave patterns (EEG), and the data is displayed as visual or auditory feedback — like a video game controlled by your brain.
When your brainwaves move toward more desirable patterns, you receive positive feedback (a sound, a brightening screen). Over time, your brain learns to produce these healthier patterns on its own. Unlike medication, neurofeedback aims to create lasting changes in brain function by harnessing the brain's natural capacity for neuroplasticity.
What is Neurofeedback Therapy?
How Does a Neurofeedback Session Work?
A typical neurofeedback treatment plan involves 20–40 sessions, each lasting 30–60 minutes:
- Initial Brain Mapping (qEEG) — A quantitative EEG assessment maps your unique brainwave patterns, identifying areas of dysregulation compared to normative databases.
- Protocol Design — Based on the brain map, your clinician designs a personalized training protocol targeting specific brainwave frequencies and locations.
- Sensor Placement — Non-invasive sensors are placed on your scalp. No electricity enters your brain — sensors only read existing activity.
- Active Training — You watch a screen or listen to audio that responds to your brainwaves in real-time. When your brain produces the target patterns, you receive instant positive feedback.
- Progressive Learning — Over multiple sessions, your brain learns to produce healthier patterns independently, a process called operant conditioning of brainwave activity.
Neurofeedback Therapy Specialists
Verified Oregon therapists
Brandon Huffman
PROMA, LPC, NCC, CADC II · Eugene, OR 97404
Currently accepting new clients for NeuroFeedback only! Trauma isn't measured by what happened…
Alexander Counseling Center
PROLPC · Medford, OR
RuthAnne Alexander, LPC, is the founder and clinical director of Alexander Counseling Center, a…
Beaverton Neurofeedback
Certified Neurofeedback Provider · 1975 NW 167th Pl, #100
Hi, I’m Olga, founder of Beaverton Neurofeedback. My interest in neurofeedback began with my…
What Conditions Does Neurofeedback Treat?
Neurofeedback has a growing evidence base for several conditions, with the strongest research supporting its use for PTSD and specific ADHD protocols:
- PTSD & Trauma — Multiple systematic reviews show clinically meaningful effect sizes in reducing PTSD symptoms. The FDA cleared an amygdala-EEG neurofeedback device for PTSD treatment in 2023.
- ADHD — Specific evidence-based protocols (Slow Cortical Potentials, Sensorimotor Rhythm, Theta/Beta Training) have demonstrated sustained benefits in children lasting up to 12 months.
- Depression & Treatment-Resistant Depression
- Anxiety Disorders & Chronic Stress
- Chronic Pain & Fibromyalgia
- Insomnia & Sleep Disorders
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Peak Performance (athletes, executives)
Neurofeedback is often used alongside other therapies (CBT, EMDR, medication) as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It is not a replacement for psychotherapy but can enhance its effectiveness.
Sources & Clinical Evidence
- Frontiers in Neuroscience (2024). Systematic Review of Neurofeedback for PTSD. Meta-analysis demonstrating clinically meaningful effect sizes in reducing PTSD symptoms across multiple studies.
- European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (2024). Evidence-based neurofeedback protocols (SCP, SMR, Theta/Beta) showed sustained and long-term benefits in children with ADHD, lasting up to 12 months.
- Brom, D., et al. (2017). Neurofeedback for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress. Randomized controlled trial showing significant reductions in PTSD and depression symptoms.
- International Society for Neuroregulation & Research (ISNR). Professional standards and efficacy ratings for neurofeedback applications across clinical populations.