What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a biofeedback technique in which a person uses their electroencephalogram (EEG or brain waves) to control multimedia computer events as a means of training regulation of attention, emotion, and/or behaviour.

What is Neurofeedback used for?

Neurofeedback trains the central regulatory signal of the brain-the EEG or electroencephalogram, so the training has an impact on any psychophysiological function that the EEG signal controls or affects. Initially used for modifying the erratic electrical activity of epilepsy, neurofeedback has been applied to ADD and AD/HD, depression, anxiety disorders, a wide range of stress-related somatic disorders, and any performance area that requires good mental fitness.

For more details go to our Neurofeedback section.

How much Neurofeedback training is required?

The amount of neurofeedback training a person requires will depend on the same factors as other kinds of training: the level of skill required and desired, the severity of the problems to overcome, the consistency and frequency of training, etc. We define training requirements in terms of the number of hours of training using an optimal training regimen to achieve symptom resolution. On average, people need to train a minimum of 30 hours, which is approximately 40 sessions of training. Number of sessions can vary from 10 to 100 or more. Compare this to training time to achieve a mere grade 1 in piano-50 hours of training.

Is Neurofeedback covered by OHIP?

No. OHIP coverage for mental-health problems is limited to counseling for family physicians, and the services of psychiatrists or mental-health facilities (hospitals or clinics) supported by the government. However, visits to a psychologist are often covered by private health plans.

How much does Neurofeedback cost?

Neurofeedback usually costs between $75.00 and $120.00 per session, depending on the facility and pricing policy. Bundled packages of many sessions often cost less. There is typically a pre-neurofeedback assessment, which is used for diagnostic, training, monitoring, and baseline purposes.

Are there harmful side-effects from Neurofeedback?

As a technique, neurofeedback is generally benign because it is a learning and conditioning technique. It is similar to physical fitness training in which repetition and reinforcement are used to gently and gradually improve a particular function. But just as you can have a poor physical-fitness trainer, you can have a poor neurofeedback provider, so people should seek a well-trained and reputable provider. We recommend a registered mental-health provider who has both training and clinical credentials.