Neurofeedback: Personal Training for your brain!
Neurofeedback Top 10 Indications
Neurofeedback is often an effective alternative to medications, or can be used to complement medications and psychotherapy if already a part of your brain health program.
It can also be used to simply make you think more sharply, and improve focus. Well designed scientific trials have displayed clinical effectiveness for neurofeedback. See our links to clinical trials below.
To optimize and personalize your neurofeedback program we recommend the use of QEEG brain mapping prior to beginning sessions. This is typically a 90 minute evaluation which includes a survey to evaluate your symptoms for correlation with the computerized mapping program. Click here to learn more about qeeg brain mapping.
The neurofeedback device we use, called the "Neurointegrator" is by Clearmind center and includes photic LED stimulation glasses to more rapidly train your brain and treat your condition. We have found this to be the most powerful and effective neurofeedback device on the market. Typically 20-30 sessions are needed, but this will vary for each individual. Your brain wave activity is assessed realtime, and computerized based feedback with music or video, helps your brain learn and re-establish healthy balanced brain function.
A neurofeedback session
How does Neurofeedback work?
During a single session, the brain is introduced to restorative brain-wave treatment, based on your symptoms. This improves brain function through positive feedback. The system offers the positive (neurofeedback) reward while the patient relaxes listening to music or watching a DVD. Metabolic changes are thought to occur during even one session. Over time, with repeated treatment sessions, most patients experience a lessening or resolution of symptoms. Treatment is non-invasive and uses no drugs or medications.
How long is a training session?
A single training session in our clinic is 60 minutes and may include 10-50 minutes of neurofeedback training time. Your visit may also include assessment and/or discussion of nutrition, sleep or exercise patterns, types of stressors, cognitive strategies, relaxation training, journalling, cognitive puzzles or games, watching movies, listening to music.
How many training sessions will I need?
The type and amount of training you need depends on many factors. We assess where you are now through either brain mapping or an intake evaluation. Most patients will benefit from even 5-10 training sessions; though some conditions require more extensive regimen with 20-50 training sessions.
How often do I train with neurofeedback?
Most patients benefit from 1-3 sessions/wk. Initially, we have found it may boost training effect and learning to begin with 3-5 sessions/wk for the first week or two. The frequency of training is up to you and the neurofeedback technician.
How soon before I can expect to see results?
Some clients see immediate results; most find relief or begin to notice personal changes within 3-6 sessions.
Is the training potentially harmful or does it have possible negative side effects?
Neurofeedback training has not been shown to be harmful over thousands of studies.
What are possible contraindications for neurofeedback therapy?
-use of visual/photic stimulation (wearing glasses with flashing lights) is not recommended for those suffering from epilepsy or who have a history of seizures
-current use of psychoactive drugs, benzodiazapenes, stimulants or alcohol
Can my kids do neurofeedback?
Yes, neurofeedback has been shown to be effective in many types of learning, behavior and emotional concerns of childhood. Children often respond more quickly to neurofeedback than adults. We have programs to improve focus and attention, reading, writing, math, listening skills, problem solving, physical coordination and more.
What about my elderly parents? Can you work with an aging brain, memory loss or Alzheimers?
Yes, we have had good success with elderly patients. While there is no "cure" for the aging brain, neurofeedback has been shown to improve blood flow (through Spect imaging studies) and connectivity in key areas of the brain. Our elderly patients often report an elevation of mood, that they are more relaxed, and that they sleep better.
What if I am already working with another healthcare provider, counselor or therapist?
Neurofeedback may complement medication or therapies you use. Brain mapping often can assist in fine-tuning medications (as can urine neurotransmitter testing), and neurofeedback may strengthen your brain to restore healthy emotional and/or cognitive balance---making it a very helpful adjunct to psychotherapy. We will be glad to send reports and update any of your providers in regards to your treatment with your signed consent. This is a new therapy, and many providers may not be aware of it. We'll be glad to provide supporting research and answer questions for you and your collaborating providers.
Should other therapies be maintained or added to neurofeedback?
Yes, if you are currently seeing a therapist or psychiatrist we recommend continuing ongoing sessions with them for your condition, and following their advise on adding/discontinuing medications. We will be glad to communicate with them about this therapy and your progress with your permission.
How does your center differ from other neurofeedback centers?
Our center offers the combined expertise of a neurofeedback specialist and a triple board certified physician with expertise in neurofeedback. Most other centers thoughout the country lack the presence of an MD with expertise in primary care, brain health, integrative and anti-aging medicine. One must balance the mind while balancing the body, and vice-versa. Other centers lack this expertise.
Do you provide any additional diagnostic testing that may be beneficial in maintaining a healthy mind?
Yes, Dr. Grover will often times recommends assessing thyroid and adrenal function, sex hormones, nutritional testing, and even neurotransmitter levels on an individualized basis to optimize brain health. This is a seperate medical consultation with Dr. Grover to discuss advanced lab testing, but he offers a 25% discount from his visit fees for those receiving neurofeedback. Dr. Grover may also recommend SPECT imaging in more complex cases to further evaluate your brain function.
How much does neurofeedback training cost?
We have payment plans for everyone, which can be paid by the session, by signing up for a "block" of sessions or an entire program or with two or more in a family. We offer student discounts for college and graduate students, the elderly (who may need shorter sessions more frequently at first), and families.
Sessions range from $110 to $60/session.
How can I learn more about Neurofeedback?
We welcome your questions about this unique treatment modality! Call Lori Miller, our in house specialist at 888-726-4442 or email us at brainhealth@revolutionarymd.com to receive more information. Let us know your area of concern. You may schedule an appointment on-line via this site by clicking here. Please go to the forms page and complete intake forms prior to coming in. Thanks!
Click here to view our Neurofeedback Brochure
References on the application of Neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback)
Reference Articles via Clearmind Center (Anxiety, Depression, other conditions)
Neurofeedback for Anxiety & Depression
Neurofeedback for traumatic brain injury
Neurofeedback for childhood behavioral tx
Do Anti-Depressants work for treatment of Depression? JAMA Article 2010