First, call our office at 320-686-0171, or Click HERE to set up an initial appointment which is free. There will be an online questionnaire that takes about 20 minutes to complete. We will discuss your concerns, symptoms, and determine whether neurofeedback training may be appropriate for your unique situation. We will also answer any questions and give you the perspective of someone who has gone through the experience personally. If you decide to continue, the next appointment will be a brain map or qEEG, the evaluation used to determine a protocol, and estimated number of sessions to address your specific type of dysregulation. We will then schedule 30 minute neurofeedback training sessions of that protocol to be done twice a week for the specified number of sessions.
Do I need a qEEG or "Brain Map"?
Yes. If you are planning to take advantage of neurofeedback, an initial brain map or Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG) is used as a kind of “fitness evaluation”. Afterwards, the map will be analyzed and a personalized training protocol will be established. Mapping involves wearing a cap with sensors attached to a computer and takes about 30 minutes. It measures and assesses your brainwave activity, then compares it to a database of other Brain Maps, so we can determine which areas of your brain may be helped by doing neurofeedback therapy.
What does a neurofeedback "Brain Training " session look like?
At the completion of the brain map, we will schedule your first training session, which could even be the same day if you wish. Training sessions last about 30 minutes and involve sitting in a comfortable chair which watching a video. During the session there will be several sensor wires attached to your head with paste as well as headphones.
How does neurofeedback work?
By using audio/visual input, your brain is gently trained to stay focused. If it goes “out of bounds,” the audio/video will dim slightly which attracts your brain’s focus, bringing it back into balance again. Over time, the brain learns to stay focused naturally, and develop the skill of regulating itself throughout the day. Many people have discovered that when their brain is functioning in a healthier way, their thoughts and processes improve as well. They also tend to see a reduction in symptoms that were bothering them prior.
Does neurofeedback therapy change my personality?
No. Neurofeedback training sessions are designed to help your brain’s connections communicate more efficiently, and stay balanced with less effort. Most clients feel calmer, more resilient to stress, and more clear headed. It will not change your hobbies, interests, or who you are.
How long before I notice a difference?
Most patients notice the beginning of positive changes between 6-8 sessions, normally done over 3-4 weeks. Some patients have told us that they have noticed differences even sooner. Often, more dramatic change is noticed after more than 6-8 sessions.
Are the results of neurofeedback long lasting?
Yes. much like riding a bike, the brain will have learned a new skill that is not forgotten with the passage of time. Most clients who have completed a training regimen do not typically need to return. However, some people opt to continue periodically as a “tune-up” or return later on to address new challenges due to new life experiences.
Does neurofeedback interfere with medications?
No. We encourage you to continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your physician. As with all medicines you should be aware of any side effects you may be experiencing and make sure to communicate any concerns to your physician.
Have there been negative side effects reported for neurofeedback?
No. Over the 40+ years that neurofeedback training has been available, no serious side effects have been reported.
Is neurofeedback the same as biofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a subset of biofeedback. Biofeedback generally means training the body to regulate certain body functions, such as heart rate or blood pressure. In the case of neurofeedback we are training the body to regulate brain wave patterns. Neurofeedback has also been called neurotherapy, neurobiofeedback, and EEG biofeedback.
What types of clients do you work with?
Almost any group of people can benefit from neurofeedback therapy. We worked with children ages 7 and up, as well as adults into their 80s. Special allowances must be made for physical limitations and the ability to conduct the training, but even if a client does not have the ability to see, we can do neurofeedback training with audio input only.
Will insurance cover neurofeedback?
Most health insurance companies will not cover brain mapping or qEEG and neurofeedback training, although some insurance plans may cover a portion of neurofeedback therapy if it is deemed medically necessary. We offer 0% interest financing through the Advance Care Card, and accept payments from Health Savings Accounts (HSA), Flexible Savings Accounts (FSA), Medical Savings Accounts (MSA).
