By Dr. Marcia Lindsey, Licensed clinical psychologist with 40+ years’ experience in anxiety, insomnia, OCD, and depression treatment
Neurofeedback therapy (also known as EEG biofeedback or brainwave training) is a non-invasive approach that helps the brain learn healthier patterns of functioning. It is often used to support concerns like anxiety, ADHD, trauma, depression, and sleep difficulties, and may be helpful as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment plan.
Is neurofeedback right for me?
Quick navigation
What is neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a specialized type of biofeedback focused on brain activity. Small sensors placed on the scalp measure your brainwaves using EEG technology. A computer gives you real-time feedback based on your brain’s electrical activity so your brain can gradually learn to self-regulate.
This training helps the brain shift into more regulated patterns, improving focus, calm, emotional regulation, and stress tolerance.
How neurofeedback therapy works
Here’s what happens in a typical session:
- Sensors are placed gently on the scalp.
- EEG monitors track your brainwaves in real time.
- You receive auditory or visual feedback (like changing sounds or images).
- Your brain learns which patterns are desirable and reinforces them over time.
Think of it as physical therapy for your brain: repeated practice helps the brain learn new, healthier patterns.
Does neurofeedback therapy really work? (research snapshot)
Research shows promising results for neurofeedback across a range of conditions:
-
Hundreds of studies have examined neurofeedback for ADHD, with a large percentage showing positive outcomes.
-
Studies suggest neurofeedback can improve symptoms like impulsiveness, hyperactivity, and lack of focus, often with few side effects.
-
A National Institutes of Health study found neurofeedback to be as effective as medication in some cases for ADHD.
While research continues to grow, many people seek neurofeedback as a low-risk, medication-free treatment option.
What neurofeedback is used for
Neurofeedback therapy has been used to support:
-
ADHD and attention challenges
-
Depression and mood swings
-
Trauma/PTSD symptoms
-
Migraines and chronic pain
-
Chronic fatigue syndrome
-
High-performance mental training
Many clients also use neurofeedback to enhance focus and resilience in high-stress careers or peak performance contexts.
How neurofeedback affects the brain
A balanced brain helps regulate emotions, attention, stress, and behavior by maintaining healthy patterns of electrical activity and chemical messengers (like dopamine and serotonin).
Neurofeedback helps your brain:
✔ Recognize unhealthy patterns
✔ Reinforce regulated brainwave activity
✔ Improve emotional stability and focus
✔ Support better sleep cycles
Over repeated sessions, your brain becomes better at self-regulation—leading to lasting changes.
Frequently asked questions
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive and generally well-tolerated approach. It does not involve medication, electrical stimulation, or surgery. Most people find sessions relaxing or neutral. As with any therapeutic approach, it’s important to work with a trained provider who can determine whether it’s appropriate for your needs.
How many neurofeedback sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your goals, symptoms, and how your brain responds to training. Many people participate in multiple sessions over several weeks or months. Dr. Lindsey can recommend a plan tailored to your individual needs.
What does a neurofeedback session feel like?
During a session, sensors are placed on the scalp to measure brainwave activity. You’ll typically watch a screen or listen to audio while your brain receives real-time feedback. Most clients describe the experience as calm, engaging, or relaxing.
Can neurofeedback help with anxiety, ADHD, or trauma?
Research suggests neurofeedback may support improvements in attention, emotional regulation, stress response, and sleep. It is often used alongside therapy and other evidence-based treatments for concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, and trauma-related symptoms.
Do I need to stop taking medication to do neurofeedback?
No. Neurofeedback can be used alongside therapy and medication. Any changes to medication should always be discussed with your prescribing provider.
Take the next step toward feeling more balanced
If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, attention difficulties, trauma-related symptoms, or sleep challenges, neurofeedback may be a helpful addition to your care.
Dr. Lindsey offers personalized neurofeedback services designed to support your goals in a safe, compassionate setting.
Schedule a free consultation to explore whether neurofeedback is right for you.
Suggestions for further reading
- Berger, L. M., Wood, G., & Kober, S. E. (2022). Effects of virtual reality-based feedback on neurofeedback training performance-A sham-controlled study. Frontiers in human neuroscience, 16, 952261. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2022.952261
- Marzbani, H., Marateb, H. R., & Mansourian, M. (2016). Neurofeedback: A Comprehensive Review on System Design, Methodology and Clinical Applications. Basic and clinical neuroscience, 7(2), 143–158. https://doi.org/10.15412/J.BCN.03070208
- Russo, G. M., Balkin, R. S., & Lenz, A. S. (2022). A meta‐analysis of neurofeedback for treating anxiety‐spectrum disorders. Journal of Counseling & Development.
- Yeh, W. H., Ju, Y. J., Liu, Y. T., & Wang, T. Y. (2022). Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Effects of Neurofeedback Training of Theta Activity on Working Memory and Episodic Memory in Healthy Population. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(17), 11037.
By Dr. Marcia Lindsey, Licensed clinical psychologist
Dr. Lindsey has over 40 years of experience helping adults with anxiety, insomnia, OCD, depression, and life transitions. Her work is warm, collaborative, and grounded in research-supported, non-medication-focused care. She is trained in sleep treatment, EMDR, and neurofeedback, and holds a doctorate in psychology from the University of Denver.
Read Dr. Lindsey’s full bio here
