Infra-Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback
The Othmer Method
Infra-Low Frequency neurofeedback is at the heart of many of today’s most trusted neurofeedback systems—and for good reason. ILF targets the slowest-moving frequencies in the brain, which are responsible for the regulation of the central nervous system. Because of its gentle, foundational nature, ILF is particularly well-suited for individuals dealing with trauma, nervous system dysregulation, or heightened sensitivity.
ILF does not require brain mapping and uses a flexible, client-responsive approach that meets the brain where it’s at. This makes it accessible and effective for people of all ages and backgrounds, including children and those with neurodevelopmental challenges. Many clients find it to be a calming, restorative process that lays the groundwork for deeper healing.
At Kaizen Wellness Centre, we often begin with ILF neurofeedback as a first-line approach due to its safety, simplicity, and profound impact on nervous system regulation.
Brain Mapping
Quantitative EEG (qEEG)
Quantitative EEG (qEEG) brain mapping is a non-invasive assessment that measures and analyzes the brain's electrical activity. Using a cap with sensors, we record brainwave patterns and compare them to a database of healthy, age-matched individuals. This process helps us identify areas of the brain that may be overactive, underactive, or out of sync. Brain mapping provides valuable insight into issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, concussion, and cognitive difficulties, and it guides the development of personalized neurofeedback and neuromodulation treatment plans.
Neuromodulation / Neurostimulation
tACS is a form of electrical stimulation that uses two electrodes (a positive electrode called an anode and a negative electrode, the cathode) to pass current back and forth through either the brain or the body. These various modalities are used in customized and nuanced ways to aid our clients’ brain and body function. It is called alternating current because the side which is giving and receiving electrons (anode and cathode) continuously switches
tDCS is a form of electrical stimulation that is used to treat many conditions and pathologies, both in the brain and in the body. The technology uses a positive electrode and a negative electrode (called the anode and the cathode). Electrons are streamed from the anode to the cathode. This is distinct from Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation, in which the roles of anode and cathode switch between the electrodes. Direct current passes a one-way current through the brain or the body. In the brain, this causes a surge in calcium ions and in sodium ions. This causes neuroplasticity, which makes the brain more susceptible to neurofeedback and pEMF conditioning. It increases the potential of the brain to change, learn and grow.
tRNS is a newer brain stimulation method that uses random, fluctuating currents between two electrodes to promote neuroplasticity and disrupt stuck or overly rigid brainwave patterns. Unlike tDCS, which uses steady currents, tRNS introduces variable frequencies and intensities, helping the brain become more flexible and adaptive. It’s especially helpful for breaking up hypercoherence—when brainwaves are overly synchronized, as seen in conditions like tinnitus—and supports the brain in unlearning unhelpful patterns.
pEMF stimulation is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that uses electromagnetic fields to support healing and balance in the body. Though you won’t feel it, the effects are real—at low intensities, pEMF is safe and clinically beneficial. We often use it around the head to support brainwave coherence, or on the body to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and more.
PBM is a type of low-level light therapy that uses targeted wavelengths of light to stimulate brain function and support healing. The light is absorbed by mitochondria in brain cells, boosting energy production (ATP), promoting repair, and enhancing circulation through the release of nitric oxide. Using a wavelength of 810 nanometers, PBM delivers photons deep into the brain to reach specific targets and encourage balance, protection, and recovery.
Finding Your Frequency: Neurofeedback Approaches & What They Support
| Neurofeedback Type | Description & Key Features | What It’s Helpful For |
|---|---|---|
|
ILF Neurofeedback (Infra-Low Frequency) Offered at Kaizen Wellness Centre |
Trains infra-low frequencies (<0.1 Hz) for foundational nervous system regulation. Highly individualized, gentle, and effective for complex or overlapping symptoms. | Emotional regulation, trauma recovery, mood stabilization, sleep, headaches, stress, focus, complex or treatment-resistant cases |
| Neuromodulation/Neurostimulation (QEEG/Brain Mapping-Based) Offered at Kaizen Wellness Centre | Uses quantitative EEG (QEEG) to map brain activity and guide individualized protocols. | Personalized symptom targeting, brain optimization, identifying underlying patterns and helping with ADHD, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, PTSD, cognitive performance, stress management |
| LORETA Neurofeedback | 3D brain mapping to target and train deeper brain regions and connectivity. | Complex mood disorders, OCD, addiction, deep brain network regulation |
| LENS Neurofeedback (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) |
Brief, low-intensity electromagnetic signals to disrupt dysfunctional patterns. Passive and fast-acting. | Trauma, anxiety, depression, TBI, chronic pain, fatigue |
| Direct Neurofeedback | Sends ultra-low electrical signals to the brain; no active participation required. Results often felt quickly. | Anxiety, PTSD, depression, sleep issues, fast symptom relief |
| NeurOptimal® (Dynamical Neurofeedback) |
Fully automated, non-linear system for whole-brain optimization. No diagnosis or protocol selection needed. | General wellness, stress, focus, emotional resilience, self-regulation |
| HEG Neurofeedback (Hemoencephalography) |
Trains cerebral blood flow, often by measuring forehead temperature or infrared signals. | Migraines, attention issues, cognitive enhancement |