Sensors are placed on the "trainee’s" scalp and ear. Brainwaves are monitored by a computer and goals are set that require the trainee to voluntarily produce more beneficial brain wave patterns. A second linked computer "coaches" the trainee by presenting visual, auditory and tactile representations of the trainee’s brainwave signals in a video game format.

This process is called "feedback" because it informs the trainee about his or her momentary success in making the desired brain changes. As the trainee exercises this ability to voluntarily change brain activity, new and beneficial response patterns are created. Practiced over an average of 20 to 40 half-hour sessions, these new modes of behavior are well learned, becoming natural responses available whenever needed.