FAQ

You may wonder whether neurofeedback (NFB) will really work. Overwhelmingly, research supports that neurofeedback works with a wide range of issues. Studies have included people with many different types of problems, from ADD/ADHD to cognitive performance to epilepsy to addiction. The evidence supports that neurofeedback leads to long-lasting improvements. However, neurofeedback may not work for everyone. For example, neurofeedback requires active participation. Youth or adults who are resistant to being in treatment are not likely to respond well. 

How long treatment will take is a difficult question to answer. Factors include the severity and type of problem, as well as individual response to treatment. Research shows that gains can be made in as few as six sessions. However, addressing long-standing, complex issues takes longer. Overcoming the migraines I had for 20 years using NFB took a few months. Without hesitation, I would do it over again! 

Many people report that the improvements from initial NFB treatment are enhanced with an occasional “tune-up”. A good comparison is long-lasting weight loss … if you see a few pounds return after having lost a significant amount of weight, you may need to diet for a week or two. The length of treatment for any “tune-ups” is typically brief. 

Treatment begins with an initial intake that usually takes 75 minutes. Subsequent sessions include discussion and counseling followed by NFB training that last 60 minutes. Your progress is monitored using standard assessment tools so that we can track your response to treatment. In addition to NFB training, counseling-only sessions may be recommended. 

Electrical currents from the brain are monitored using 1-2 leads that are placed on the head. The placement depends upon the issue being treated. The leads are linked to a computer software program that constantly monitors brain signals and provides positive feedback (more beeps and a computer game moving faster) when the brain is producing the desired signals. Based on the feedback, the client “learns” to modify brain signals and in this way, more optimal brain signals and thereby, healthier patterns are established. The monitoring by the software is similar to a blood pressure cuff — it is a measurement that goes from the client to the computer. 

We are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network, United Health Care, and Medicare. We will bill other insurers as an out-of-network provider. Payment can be made with cash, check or credit or debit cards, including health savings account cards.