By now, you know that neurofeedback helps the brain learn healthier patterns through real-time feedback. But what does a typical session actually look like? Let’s walk through the process step by step.

1. Getting Started – The Setup

When you arrive for your session, you’ll sit comfortably in a chair. The therapist places small sensors on your scalp using a gentle paste or cap. These sensors only record your brain’s activity — they don’t send any electricity into your brain.

The whole process is painless and non-invasive, similar to having your heartbeat recorded with an ECG.

2. Baseline Recording

Before training begins, your brain activity is recorded for a few minutes. This helps the therapist understand your current brainwave patterns. For example:

• An anxious person might show overactive high-beta waves.

• Someone with ADHD may have too much slow-theta activity.

• A person with insomnia may have difficulty shifting into calm alpha rhythms.

This baseline helps tailor the session to your needs.

3. Training in Action

Now comes the engaging part: feedback-based training. You’ll watch a video, listen to sounds, or play a simple computer game.

• In ADHD: a car or rocket moves forward when your brain produces focus-related activity.

• In Anxiety: a soothing music track plays when your brain shifts into relaxation rhythms.

• In Sleep Problems: the screen glows brighter as you generate calm alpha or SMR waves.

Every time your brain moves in the right direction, you are instantly rewarded with positive feedback. When it slips, the reward stops. Over time, your brain learns which state “feels better” and starts adopting it naturally.

4. Session Duration & Frequency

• Each session lasts 30–45 minutes.

• Most treatment plans recommend 20–40 sessions, usually spread across several weeks.

• Like physiotherapy or exercise, consistency is key for results.

5. Tracking Progress

After several sessions, patients often notice changes such as:

• Better focus and reduced restlessness (in ADHD).

• Lower anxiety levels and improved sleep.

• Greater emotional balance and resilience.

Therapists may also use questionnaires, QEEG maps, or behavioral reports to measure progress.

What Patients Say

Most people describe sessions as relaxing and even fun. Children often enjoy the game-like training, while adults appreciate the calming and empowering experience. Unlike taking medication, there are no drug-related side effects, making it a gentle and natural therapy.

Conclusion

A neurofeedback session is simple, engaging, and non-invasive — yet powerful in its impact. By combining neuroscience with real-time learning, it allows the brain to practice healthier rhythms and carry them into daily life.

In the next article, we’ll share real-life examples and success stories — from children with ADHD to adults with anxiety and insomnia.

✨ Written by Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi), DNB, MBA (BITS Pilani) – Consultant Psychiatrist, Chennai.

📍 Practice Locations:

• Apollo Clinic, Velachery, Opp. Phoenix Marketcity, Chennai

• Kumar’s Healthcare, Chromepet (Near Tambaram, Pallavaram), Chennai

📞 Contact: 8595155808