The Difference Between Neurofeedback and Biofeedback

At Arizona Center for Neurofeedback, we often get asked: What’s the difference between Neurofeedback and Biofeedback? While both are non-invasive, drug-free therapies designed to help the body self-regulate, they target different systems. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right treatment for your needs. Here’s a breakdown of how they work, when they’re used, and how they can benefit you.

What Is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback focuses on helping individuals gain awareness and control over physiological functions like heart rate, breathing rate and depth, muscle tension, and skin temperature. Sensors placed on the body track these metrics in real time, and patients use this feedback to learn relaxation and stress-reduction techniques. 

Biofeedback is commonly used for anxiety, asthma, chronic pain, gastrointestinal problems, high blood pressure and tension headaches. The goal is to help your body respond more calmly to stress and improve overall wellness.

What Is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG Biofeedback, targets the brain’s electrical activity. By monitoring brainwave patterns, Neurofeedback helps train the brain to function in a more balanced and optimal way.

It’s particularly effective for conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disorders and traumatic brain injuries. It’s also used by individuals who want to optimize performance, whether in sports, academics, business or the performing arts. Over time, Neurofeedback can improve focus, emotional regulation, and cognitive performance.

Key Differences Between the Two

The main difference lies in what they monitor and train, and the individual’s goals. Biofeedback targets the body, Neurofeedback targets the brain. 

When the individual is experiencing chronic physical symptoms that do not improve with other forms of medical or psychological treatment, Biofeedback is often the missing piece that can jump start progress. Biofeedback often requires active techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or muscle relaxation. 

Neurofeedback encourages passive observation and effortless brain training. While both therapies promote self-regulation, Neurofeedback works more directly with the central nervous system, whereas Biofeedback specifically targets the autonomic nervous system, also known as the body’s “Fight or Flight” and “Rest & Digest” systems. 

At our Center, we specialize in Neurofeedback, Biofeedback and Mental Performance Training because of their wide-reaching impact on the individual’s whole body, brain and mind. 

When to Use Biofeedback vs. Neurofeedback

Biofeedback is ideal for individuals struggling with stress-related physical issues, like migraines or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Research has shown that strategies for calming the body can relieve chronic physical problems such as these. 

Neurofeedback is best suited for brain-based conditions, especially when medication isn’t well-tolerated or doesn’t address the root cause. Sometimes, both therapies can be used in tandem for a comprehensive approach to healing. Choosing the right therapy depends on your symptoms, goals, and how your body responds.

Benefits of Neurofeedback and Biofeedback

Biofeedback empowers patients to manage stress and reduce physical symptoms without relying solely on medication. Neurofeedback helps the brain rewire itself, leading to long-lasting changes in mood, attention, and behavior. Both therapies are safe, personalized, and supported by research. At Arizona Center for Neurofeedback, we tailor each program to meet your unique needs.

Why Choose Arizona Center for Neurofeedback