Over the last 50 years, neurofeedback has helped people worldwide achieve optimal performance in an increasingly challenging environment. There are hundreds of research studies supporting its efficacy and a rising number of people whose well-being has improved thanks to this type of brain training.
Little by little, neuron by neuron, neurofeedback is changing people’s lives! So it's no wonder that becoming a neurofeedback expert has become such a prevalent role.
We talked with Dr. Diana Kaplan, therapist Zara Dureno, and Dr. Sarah Murphy in order to learn more about their neurofeedback journey. Their valuable knowledge, actionable advice, and real-life patient stories will be shared in this three-part article series in which you’ll discover:
1) How to get started with neurofeedback
2) How to get the most out of the neurofeedback training process
3) How to explain neurofeedback to your clients
Entering the World of Neurofeedback
"There is something magical about any device that lets us see into the brain." – Stephen Larsen
Neurofeedback is a method of brain training that focuses on helping brainwaves reach optimal performance. By setting appropriate goals, individualized for each client, this type of training can reduce certain psychological symptoms and enhance cognitive performance.
It has been found beneficial in reducing symptoms of a variety of brain disorders, including ADHD, anxiety and PTSD, depression, sleep issues, addiction, autism, epilepsy, and aiding in the rehabilitation of traumatic brain injuries.
"I heard about neurofeedback on a podcast from a concussion clinic in Toronto. I thought it was really interesting. It seemed like it was helping the clinic with clients who were stuck or were kind of plateauing. Shortly after, I got hired to work at a clinic that treats concussions and TBI, so I thought it would be a really good addition to our clinic," says Zara Dureno, one of the neurofeedback practitioners that we interviewed.
Becoming a Neurofeedback Practitioner
Practitioners can enter the field as therapists or coaches and they may even be teachers, psychologists, doctors, or nurses. Generally, a bachelor's degree is required, and many practitioners also have master's level education. Doctors and psychologists typically complete six to eight years of formal education, plus several years of residency or internship.
"I did my degree in neuroscience, so I had a background in that. I feel like someone who didn't would probably feel overwhelmed by training. But getting