How Effective is Neurofeedback Therapy?

This article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp

Neurofeedback therapy proposes a non-invasive means to train the brain towards optimal functioning. Real-time displays of brain activity are used to train brain function and self-regulation. Its growing popularity underscores a shift towards alternative mental health therapies, promising improvement without the side effects often associated with medication. Despite its growing popularity, neurofeedback therapy is still being intensely investigated. Technological advancements also play a role, allowing for more cost-effective neurofeedback sessions and more consistent access. This article will briefly explore neurofeedback therapy and investigate the research to determine if it holds up against more well-established forms of psychotherapy.

What is neurofeedback therapy?

Neurofeedback therapy is a biofeedback technique that focuses on teaching the brain to self-regulate. It therapy utilizes EEG (electroencephalogram) technology to monitor brain wave patterns in real-time. The person undergoing therapy is able to view their brain waveforms and learn to alter their brain activity through a system of rewards and feedback, essentially learning to modulate their mental states.

Neurofeedback targets a variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, and sleep disorders, by helping to improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall brain function. The process involves placing electrodes on the scalp to measure electrical activity, with the resulting data displayed on a screen for both therapist and client to see. This immediate feedback allows the client to understand their brain’s activity levels and learn how to control or modify them through mental exercises and visualization techniques.

The professional overseeing the therapy guides and structures the sessions so that the patient, in ideal circumstances, continually progresses toward their therapy goals. While the patient is tasked with doing the actual work associated with making the change, the professional acts as a facilitator and guide to ensure that their effort is associated with their desired outcome.

The science behind neurofeedback therapy is rooted in the understanding of neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Different patterns of brain waves, such as alpha, beta, theta, and delta, correspond to various states of consciousness, attention, and relaxation. Neurofeedback aims to teach individuals how to influence these patterns, promoting a shift towards more desirable and regulated mental states.

For more information about how neurofeedback therapy works, take a look at the article by mental healthcare provider BetterHelp below: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/therapy/how-does-neurofeedback-therapy-work/

Comparing neurofeedback to traditional therapies

Traditional treatments such as medication, psychotherapy, and behavioral interventions have long been the cornerstone of mental health care. While these approaches can be effective for many individuals, they often come with side effects, limited long-term benefits, or require ongoing commitment. In contrast, neurofeedback therapy presents a non-invasive and drug-free alternative that targets underlying neural mechanisms. It has the potential to produce lasting changes in brain function without the risk of medication-related adverse effects. This makes it a particularly appealing option for individuals who are wary of pharmaceutical interventions or who experience intolerable side effects from medication.

Furthermore, neurofeedback therapy can be personalized to target specific brain regions or networks associated with a particular condition. Unlike traditional psychotherapy, which relies on verbal communication and insight-oriented approaches, neurofeedback directly trains the brain’s neural circuits, offering a more direct pathway to symptom relief. This targeted approach may lead to more rapid and enduring improvements in symptoms, particularly for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions.

In addition, neurofeedback therapy may complement other treatments by addressing different aspects of mental health. For example, while medication may alleviate symptoms quickly, neurofeedback might help individuals develop self-regulation skills to maintain these improvements over time. Similarly, psychotherapy can provide insights into underlying issues, while neurofeedback can support the brain’s ability to adapt and change in response to therapeutic interventions.

What does the research say?

The effectiveness of neurofeedback therapy can vary depending on individual factors such as age, severity of symptoms, and underlying neurological conditions. Research into neurofeedback therapy has provided mixed results. For ADHD, numerous studies have shown that neurofeedback can lead to improvements in attention and impulsivity control, rivaling the effects of traditional medication in some cases. Anxiety and depression have also been areas of focus, with evidence suggesting that neurofeedback can help reduce symptoms by teaching individuals to modulate their own brain activity associated with these conditions.

Neurofeedback therapy has also demonstrated some utility in the treatment of chronic pain by helping patients modulate brain activity related to pain perception. It is possible that neurofeedback will soon offer a medication-free way for individuals with conditions like fibromyalgia, migraines, and neuropathic pain to seek relief.

Despite promising studies, the effectiveness of neurofeedback has been found to vary, and while some studies report significant benefits, others call for more rigorous research methodologies to conclusively determine its efficacy. The varying outcomes highlight the need for personalized approaches in neurofeedback therapy and further research to identify which individuals may benefit the most.

Additionally, access to qualified providers and the cost of treatment may pose barriers for some individuals seeking neurofeedback therapy. Therefore, while neurofeedback holds promise as a valuable addition to the mental health treatment landscape, current best practices recommend it as an adjunctive therapy that supplements therapy with more significant empirical support. Despite mixed results in research, it is possible that neurofeedback could be helpful for many people, but professional guidance and assessment are required for the treatment to have the best chances of success.

Other considerations

One notable consideration of neurofeedback therapy is its time commitment. Unlike medication, which can provide relatively quick relief from symptoms, neurofeedback often involves multiple sessions spread out over weeks or months to achieve noticeable improvements. This can be challenging for individuals with busy schedules or those seeking immediate relief from their symptoms.

Additionally, those considering neurofeedback therapy should be aware of potential side effects or adverse reactions. While neurofeedback is generally considered safe, some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as headaches, fatigue, or changes in mood during or after sessions. It’s essential for individuals to discuss any concerns or potential risks with their healthcare provider before starting neurofeedback therapy.

Despite these considerations, neurofeedback therapy offers a promising alternative for individuals seeking non-invasive and drug-free options for mental health treatment. As research continues to evolve and awareness of neurofeedback grows, the accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness of the treatment are likely to increase. However, at this time, neurofeedback is likely best used as an adjunctive therapy following professional assessment.