Unlocking the Brain’s Potential: 5 FAQs About Neurofeedback 

Therapist in Petaluma, Sonoma County

As a clinical psychologist, I often meet clients who feel frustrated with traditional approaches to managing anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, or the lingering effects of trauma. Many come to me searching for something beyond talk therapy or medication alone — something that addresses the brain’s patterns directly. That’s where neurofeedback comes in. If you’re curious but unsure about how it works, you’re not alone. Let me answer five of the most common questions I hear about neurofeedback in my practice.

1. What exactly is neurofeedback?

At its core, neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that trains your brain to self-regulate. Using EEG technology, we measure your brain’s electrical activity in real time. With specialized software, we provide your brain with feedback — often in the form of audio or visual cues — that reward healthy patterns and discourage unhelpful ones. Over time, this can help “rewire” your brain’s habitual responses, much like physical therapy retrains a muscle

2. What conditions can neurofeedback help with?

Decades of research and clinical practice show that neurofeedback can benefit people struggling with anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, depression, insomnia, chronic stress, migraines, and even some learning difficulties. It’s not a magic cure, but for many people, it offers a gentle, non-invasive option that works alongside other treatments to promote long-term changes in how the brain functions.

3. Is neurofeedback safe?

Safety is one of the greatest advantages of neurofeedback. It’s non-invasive — no shocks, no implants, no medication required. Most people tolerate neurofeedback very well. Occasionally, clients may feel temporarily tired, wired, or experience mild headaches after a session, but these effects are usually brief and can be adjusted for in training.

4. How long does it take to see results?

This is one of the questions I get most often. Neurofeedback is not an instant fix — think of it more like building a new habit. Most clients notice shifts within about 5–10 sessions, but meaningful, lasting change usually takes 20–40 sessions, depending on your goals and the issues you’re addressing. We create a customized training plan based on your brain’s unique patterns, and we adjust it as we go to ensure you’re getting the best possible outcome.

5. Will the effects last?

This is what excites me most about neurofeedback: the results can be lasting. Unlike taking a pill that wears off when you stop, neurofeedback helps your brain develop healthier, more flexible ways of operating. Many clients report that once they complete a full course of training, the benefits stick — because the brain has learned to self-regulate. Some people choose to come back for occasional “booster” sessions, especially during times of high stress.

If you’ve been wondering whether neurofeedback could help you or someone you love, I encourage you not to wait. The brain has remarkable capacity to heal and adapt — and you don’t have to stay stuck in old patterns forever. If you’d like to learn more, discuss whether you’re a good candidate, or just get your questions answered, Contact Me today. Let’s explore what’s possible when you give your brain the feedback it needs to thrive.