Frequently Asked Questions

Neurofeedback is a form of brain training that uses real-time EEG (brainwave) data to provide feedback to the brain. When the brain produces optimal activity patterns, it receives a reward signal — gradually learning to sustain those states. The process is non-invasive, evidence-based and drug-free.

Biofeedback measures physiological signals — heart rate variability, breathing, skin conductance, muscle tension and temperature — and displays them in real time. By watching your own data you learn to consciously regulate your body's stress response. At Brainwork, biofeedback is often combined with neurofeedback for a complete mind-body approach.

Yes. Neurofeedback is entirely non-invasive — it reads electrical activity from the surface of the scalp and provides feedback, but does not send any electrical signals into the brain. It has been used clinically worldwide for over 50 years with an excellent safety record. It is appropriate for children, adults and older adults.

Most training programmes consist of 20–40 sessions. The exact number depends on your goals, age and how your brain responds. We provide a recommendation after the initial assessment and reassess progress throughout the programme. Some clients choose to do a shorter focused block; others commit to a longer programme for more profound goals.

Training sessions last 45–60 minutes. The initial assessment is approximately 60 minutes. Sessions are typically scheduled once or twice a week for consistency — brain training works best with regular, repeated exposure.

Some clients notice subtle changes after just a few sessions — better sleep quality, a calmer feeling, slightly improved focus. For most people, clearer changes become apparent after 10–15 sessions. Neurofeedback is cumulative: each session builds on the last. We monitor progress throughout and adjust the protocol as needed.

Yes — neurofeedback is widely used with children and is one of the most researched non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD. Children's brains are highly plastic and often respond particularly well to training. The sessions are designed to be engaging and age-appropriate.

We generally work with children from age 5 upwards. The child needs to be able to sit relatively still and engage with the feedback task for around 30 minutes. We assess readiness on an individual basis — contact us and we can advise whether your child is likely to benefit.

Yes — neurofeedback is a training method, not a form of psychotherapy. It works directly on brainwave patterns rather than through conversation or reflection. It can be very effectively combined with psychological therapy, and we are happy to coordinate with a child's existing therapist or psychologist.

No — neurofeedback is a complementary training method, not a medical treatment, and it cannot replace medication prescribed by a doctor. Any decision about changing medication should be discussed with the prescribing physician. Neurofeedback can work alongside existing medical or therapeutic support and some clients, over time and with their doctor's agreement, find they need less medication — but this is never a guaranteed outcome.

Neurofeedback is very well tolerated. Some clients feel mildly tired after their first few sessions — this is a normal response to unfamiliar mental effort and typically resolves after a few sessions. Rarely, a client may feel temporarily more alert or slightly unsettled after a session; if this occurs, we adjust the protocol immediately. Serious adverse effects are not documented in the scientific literature for standard neurofeedback protocols.

Currently, neurofeedback and biofeedback at Brainwork are private-pay services and are not covered by Croatian health insurance (HZZO). We issue receipts for all services which you may be able to use if you have private supplementary health insurance — please check with your insurer.

Yes, if you are committing to a full training programme — which we recommend for meaningful results. Package prices represent savings of 14–20% compared to the single-session rate. They also make it easier to plan financially and stay consistent. See our packages page for the current options.