Neurofeedback

Rewiring the Brain: How Neurofeedback Can Help with Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people across all ages. While medications and talk therapy are standard treatments, many individuals are seeking drug-free, non-invasive approaches that address the root causes of emotional dysregulation. One such method gaining scientific recognition is neurofeedback.

What Is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a cutting-edge therapy that helps the brain learn to function more efficiently. It works by measuring brainwave activity in real time and providing feedback through visual or auditory cues. These cues help train the brain to shift into more balanced, regulated patterns.

Neurofeedback is based on the principle of neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to change and adapt throughout life. When brainwave patterns are dysregulated (which is common in depression and anxiety), neurofeedback can guide the brain back into healthier ranges.

The Science Behind Neurofeedback for Mood Disorders

Research shows that individuals with depression often exhibit excessive slow-wave activity (like theta and delta waves) in the frontal regions of the brain, which are linked to motivation, planning, and emotional regulation. Those with anxiety tend to display heightened beta activity, associated with over-arousal and a constant "fight or flight" state.

Neurofeedback sessions target these irregular patterns, helping the brain self-correct. Over time, this can lead to:

Improved emotional regulation
Decreased symptoms of anxiety and panic
Reduction in depressive episodes
Better stress tolerance and mental clarity

Studies have shown promising results. For example, a meta-analysis published in the journal Clinical EEG and Neuroscience found that neurofeedback led to significant reductions in symptoms of both depression and anxiety, comparable in some cases to pharmaceutical interventions.

What to Expect During a Neurofeedback Session

During a session, sensors are placed on the scalp to monitor brainwave activity. The patient then watches a movie, listens to music, or plays a game designed to respond to their brain's activity. When the brain moves into a desirable pattern, the feedback reinforces that activity. The process is safe, painless, and often described as relaxing.

Most individuals begin noticing changes after several sessions, though long-term results typically require a series of treatments customized to the individual’s neurological profile.

Why Neurofeedback Is a Game-Changer

Non-invasive and drug-free
Personalized to your brain’s unique activity
Can be used alongside traditional therapies
Strengthens emotional resilience and cognitive function

Neurofeedback doesn’t suppress symptoms—it helps the brain work better so that emotional stability becomes more natural and sustainable.

Functional Medicine: Supporting the Brain from the Inside Out

While neurofeedback trains the brain from the outside in, functional medicine supports it from the inside out. At O’Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic, we combine these approaches to help address root causes such as:

Inflammation
Hormonal imbalances
Gut-brain axis dysfunction
Nutritional deficiencies

Through lab testing, personalized nutrition, targeted supplementation, and lifestyle changes, functional medicine enhances the brain’s environment so neurofeedback has an even greater impact.

Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?

If you’re struggling with depression or anxiety and want a natural, scientifically-supported path forward, neurofeedback might be the key.

Visit us at O'Keefe Matz Functional Health Clinic
1051 Ashland Avenue, Saint Paul, MN 55104
Call us at 651-292-8072 to schedule a consultation
Learn more: www.improveurhealth.com

Your brain is capable of change. Let us help you unlock that potential.