Neurofeedback training consists of 3 components. Firstly, the initial assessment which would be conducted at our clinic in the Department of Psychology at Swansea University. This includes a quantitative EEG (qEEG) assessment, clinical interview, standard neuropsychological tests and questionnaires.

A quantitative EEG is a full 19-lead EEG assessment which helps us to determine areas of the brain that would benefit most from neurofeedback training (for more information on quantitative EEG see here). In our clinic a client's qEEG recording is compared to a normative database to determine which areas of the brain are functioning well and which areas may be functioning below the optimum.

A treatment plan is subsequently designed for each individual taking into account their unique issues or problems, and assessment data. The second component is the course of neurofeedback training. The third component is a post-training evaluation session. The extensive initial assessment allows us to show the gains made during and after a course of training.

What is neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is also known as "EEG Biofeedback" as it is based on the brain's electrical activity, the electroencephalogram (EEG). It is a painless, non-invasive method which helps people to modify their brainwave activity to improve attention, concentration, reduce impulsivity, and to control hyperactive behaviours. Essentially, the technique trains the brain to regulate and adjust itself to function more efficiently.

We apply electrodes to the client's scalp which picks up their brainwave activity. The monitored brain activity is processed by a computer which extracts information from the brain signals about certain brainwave frequencies. Changes in the brain signals are fed back to the client by the computer either visually to a monitor in front them or as sounds through a headset. If the client's brain activity changes in the direction specified by the neurofeedback trainer, a positive "reward" feedback is given to the client.

The spaceship will not move unless the client produces a specific brainwave signal. When appropriate levels of brainwave activity are produced, the client is reinforced, because the game continues. The clients learn through this method to change brainwave activity. During a neurofeedback session, clients also practice maintaining appropriate brainwave states when engaged in school or work related tasks (e.g., reading) thereby helping them to apply it to their daily activities.

The same principle applies for adults, however, examples of feedback in this instance also include DVDs of their choice or reinforcing/pleasant sounds.