FAQ's EEG Biofeedback (Neurofeedback) 

Who is a good candidate for EEG Biofeedback?

  • Are you not getting the full results from medication or don't like its side effects? 
  • Can you visualize what you want out of life, but constantly get derailed from negative self-talk, anxiety or fear?
  • Do you wake up with negative feelings in the morning?
  • Do you or your child have problems with focus or impulsivity?
  • Did you ever suffer a concussion?
  • Would you like a more restfull night of sleep?
  • Do you suffer frome migraines or headaches?
  • Did you ever suffer a trauma that keeps playing over and over in your head?
  • Are you willing to commit to at least 2 EEG biofeedback sessions a week for the first 5-10 weeks?

How is it done?

An initial assessment is done to obtain a description of issues and goals. This assessment takes about 1.5 to 2 hours  and includes the first training session. Subsequent training sessions last from 45 minutes to an hour, and are conducted from one to three times per week

Improvement is generally seen within the first 5-8 sessions. The gains made with EEG biofeedback are typically permanent. 

EEG Biofeedback  training is a painless, non-invasive procedure. One or more sensors are placed on the scalp, and one to each ear. The brain waves are monitored by an amplifier and computer-based instrument that process the signal and provides the proper feedback. Feedback is displayed to the client by a video display along with audio signals. Gradually, the brain responds to the cues being given, and a "learning" of new brain wave patterns takes place. The new pattern is one which is closer to what is normally observed, or closer to optimum.

 What is it used for?

EEG Biofeedback is used for many conditions in which the brain is not working as well as it might, or to optimize function in athletes, students or anyone wishing to enhance their performance.

 Some conditions that have been helped by EEG Biofeedback include Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, conduct problems, some learning disabilities, issues such as sleep problems, teeth grinding, and various forms of chronic pain such as frequent headaches, migraines or stomach pain.

 The training is also helpful with the control of mood disorders. By making information available to the brain about how it is functioning and asking it to make adjustments, it can do so. When the mature brain is doing a good job of regulating itself and the person is alert and attentive, the brain waves (EEG) show a particular pattern. We challenge the person to maintain this "high-performance" alert and attentive state. Gradually the brain learns, just like it learns anything else. And as with other learning, the brain tends to retain the new skill.

How frequent should the training sessions be?

In the initial stages of learning, the sessions should be regular and frequent, at two or three sessions per week. After learning begins to consolidate, the pace can be reduced.

 How long does training normally take?

EEG training is a learning process, and therefore results are seen gradually over time. For most conditions, initial progress can be seen within about 5-8 sessions. In some cases initial training goals may be met in  20- 30 sessions. 

In the case of hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder, training is expected to take about forty sessions, or even more in severe cases. Teeth grinding usually responds in twenty sessions. Some symptoms of head injury often respond in less than twenty sessions (quality of sleep; fatigue; chronic pain), whereas others may require longer training before they show an initial response (memory function, for example). 

Why does this training work?

The brain is amazingly adaptable, and capable of learning. It can also learn to improve its own performance, if only it is given cues about what to change. By making information available to the brain about how it is functioning, and asking it to make adjustments, it can do so. When the mature brain is doing a good job of regulating itself, and the person is alert and attentive, the brain waves (EEG) show a particular pattern. We challenge the person to maintain this "high-performance", alert and attentive state. Gradually, the brain learns, just like it learns anything else. And like with other learning, the brain tends to retain the new skill. 

Is EEG biofeedback covered by insurance?

There are insurance codes (CPT codes) for EEG biofeedback (EEG biofeedback is the term insurance companies use for neurofeedback). Unfortunately, there aren't consistent requirements for reimbursement among states, insurance companies and individual policies. The best thing to do is to call your insurance company and ask whether is is covered. Even if it s not covered, most people feel the benefits of EEG bioffedback are worth the out-of-pocket investment in their well-being.

How much does an EEG biofeedback session cost?

Typically, fees range from $95.00 to $250.00 depending on the services provided. You will need to pay at the time of your visit. Discounts are often available for multiple sessions (5, 10, 15…) when paid for in advance. I will provide you with a statement that contains all the information you need to submit for reimbursement from your insurer. I do not guarantee reimbursement for any service.

 What can I tell my doctor about EEG Biofeedback?

Your doctor may not know of this specific type of EEG Biofeedback. He or she will maintain a healthy skepticism about any new approach claiming numerous benefits. If your doctor is familiar with EEG Biofeedback in general, he may still be thinking in terms of the more common early experiments with alpha wave training, rather than the training we offer. Ask your doctor to examine the recent research on the effectiveness of EEG Biofeedback in treating various disorders such as attention deficit disorder and epilepsy. The following references describe some of the research and are a place to start:

Evans, J.R. and Abarbanel, A. (1999) Introduction to Quantitative EEG and Neurofeedback. Academic Press.

Clinical EEG Vol. 31 No. 1 Jan. 2000. (Entire issue devoted to Neurofeedback.)

 Lubar, J.O. and Lubar, J.F. (1984). Electroencephalographic biofeedback of SMR and beta for treatment of attention deficit disorder in a clinical setting. Biofeedback and Self-Regulation, 9, pp.1-23.

 Shouse, M.N. and Lubar, J.F. (1979). Operant conditioning of EEG rhythms and Ritalin in the treatment of hyperkinesis. Biofeedback and Self-Regulation,4, pp.301-312.

 The Journal of Neurotherapy is a peer-reviewed professional journal devoted entirely to Neurofeedback. The abstracts can be viewed at www.snr-jnt.org.

Or check these web pages: www.neurofeedbackdefined.comwww.snr-jnt.org, www.eegspectrum.com, www.aapb.org, www.biofeedback.org, www.

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