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Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback promotes self-regulation and trains the central nervous system to function better. Essentially, neurofeedback is biofeedback applied directly to the brain through the transfer of information in the brain. Direct training of brain function is conducted through and EEG (electroencephlagram) teaching the brain to learn more efficient functioning. Conducted with a reward system to the brain while playing video games or watching movies on a computer, neurofeedback provides the brain with feedback. When desirable brain waves are produced, rewards are administered. When undesirable brain waves are produced, no rewards are provided. The brain desires rewards and therefore seeks, or trains, to receive rewards. Neurofeedback EEG’s are conducted at specific training sites related to the different areas of the brain where information is stored. Brain waves, measured in hertz, are shown on a computer monitor or a graph while neurofeedback is being performed. Neurofeedback is conducted at various hertz levels based on specific need to train for different programs of improvement on different sites of the brain and can actually change the neural pathways in the brain through training at different hertz levels. Results are obtained through regular and consistent training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is neurofeedback?
A. Neurofeedback translates into the programming of neurons through the transfer of information. More specifically, neurofeedback is the direct training of brain function conducted through an EEG in which the brain learns to function more efficiently. Neurofeedback is a training of self-regulation, training the central nervous system to function better, and is essentially biofeedback applied directly to the brain.
Q: What is an EEG?
A: EEG is the abbreviation for electroencephalogram. An EEG is obtained by placing electrodes on the scalp and reading the electrical activity of brain waves. The task takes about one hour and is painless.
Q: How does it work?
A: Conducted with a reward system to the brain while playing video games or watching movies on a computer, neurofeedback provides the brain with feedback. When desirable brain waves are produced, rewards are administered. When undesirable brain waves are produced, no rewards are provided. The brain desires rewards and therefore seeks, or trains, to receive rewards. Neurofeedback EEG’s are conducted at specific training sites related to the different areas of the brain where information is stored. Brain waves, measured in hertz, are shown on a computer monitor or a graph while neurofeedback is being performed. Neurofeedback is conducted at various hertz levels based on specific need to train for different programs of improvement on different sites of the brain and can actually change the neural pathways in the brain through training at different hertz levels.
Q: What are advantages of neurofeedback compared to drug therapy?
A: Neurofeedback is non-invasive, holistic, and there are no significant side effects. It resolves (remediates) the problem instead of temporarily suppressing it. The patient becomes able to perform well on his own, without having to depend on drugs.
Q: What about medication?
A: Medication can be taken while participating in neurofeedback. However, since neurofeedback directly trains the brain it is important to notify your doctor of participation in neurofeedback. My experience with participants taking medication has been that their medication has needed frequent adjustment (reduction) while participating in neurofeedback sessions.
Q: How many EEG neurofeedback sessions are required?
A: Depending upon the specific need presented, neurofeedback can be completed in as few as 10 sessions, but on average, 20-30 sessions are required. More sessions may be required for severe problems.
Q: How frequently should EEG neurofeedback training sessions be done?
A: Since neurofeedback is a learning technique and therefore the more frequent the training, the more rapid the results. Trainings generally occur 1-5 hours per week. If trainings are conducted less than 1 hour per week, the participant forgets what has been learned and can result in a need for more sessions. The total number of sessions will be the same, but with more frequent training, results are seen more quickly. Neurofeedback training almost never needs to be repeated meaning that the results are most often permanent.
Q: What is the cost? A: The standard fee for an individual 50-minute session is $100. It is recommended that a package option receive consideration. Payment is due at the time of the session. SCI offers payment options to meet your needs. Fees are based on the amount of time scheduled for sessions. Therefore, charges incur for any scheduled session that is not cancelled 24 hours in advance.
Q: Does insurance pay?
A: Most insurance companies do not reimburse for neurofeedback at this time. However, if you have insurance coverage, then we will provide you with an insurance-ready receipt after receiving your payment so that you can use it to submit a claim to your insurance company. Any reimbursement would be paid directly to you by the insurance company.
Q: Who does neurofeedback help?
A: Neurofeedback helps a vast spectrum of issues and disorders. These include but are not limited to: ADHD, learning problems and academic improvement, behavior problems, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, headaches, pre-menstrual symptoms, emotional disturbances, seizures, autism, cerebral palsy, birth trauma, head trauma’s, bedwetting, night terrors, sleep walking, teeth grinding and clenching, addictions, physical problems, and the maintenance of brain function as a person ages. Neurofeedback improves peak performance in athletes, artists, musicians, and students, business and leadership.
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