Neurofeedback for Clients

Consultations can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through an online virtual meeting. During the consultation, clients can describe their concerns and learn how Neurofeedback might help them find relief. We will address questions about the Neurofeedback process, session frequency, pricing, and how it can be integrated with other therapies and interventions the client may already be undergoing. This consultation is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Neurofeedback and determine if it is a suitable option for you.

The first visit is a 2-hour long assessment, which is a three-part process. First, the clinician conducts an interview to understand how the client’s nervous system is not functioning as expected. After identifying all areas of concern, the clinician designs a training protocol tailored to the client’s individual needs.

The second part involves administering a computerized performance test (CPT) to provide an objective baseline measurement of brain performance, including speed, consistency, and accuracy. This data will be compared to a second set gathered typically after 20 Neurofeedback sessions to track objective improvements in brain function and positive changes in subjective symptoms.

The third part of the assessment is an evaluation session where the clinician begins implementing the customized plan. The full assessment takes up to two hours and includes discussing the treatment plan and expectations, setting goals, and scheduling future sessions.

Each Neurofeedback session begins with a check-in, during which the clinician evaluates the training outcomes of previous sessions and any changes in symptoms. Then, the clinician discusses the next step in the treatment plan with the client and implements any needed changes to achieve the desired results.

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During the intake, your clinician will identify all areas of concern and design a training protocol that may involve targeting several regions of the brain to improve specific functions. Broader functions such as calming and grounding, stabilization, or regulation and control of thoughts and emotions may involve the parietal, temporal, and prefrontal cortex. More specific areas can address particular concerns like speech and language development, articulation, social-emotional awareness, reading, and writing skills. Additionally, as the training progresses, other Neurofeedback modalities can be introduced to enhance relaxation and focus or to resolve traumatic experiences. As a client, you will be providing feedback on symptom changes in session and in between sessions and be part of the clinical decisions involved in the protocol development.

Typically the training sessions are 30 minutes long. The appointments are 50 minutes long, to allow a brief check-in assessment before each session, to help the clinician decide on the next step in training, as well as the setup for one or more training modalities, depending on the individual.

Most clients will notice a shift in their symptoms either during  the very first session or shortly thereafter. The brain begins to use different pathways to function differently, and with repetition and reinforcement over time, it learns to sustain these new pathways and maintain optimal self-regulation. The amount of training required to see lasting results depends on the specific symptoms being addressed, the brain’s responsiveness, and any potential interferences with the learning process.

Typically, we start with 20 sessions, which provide ample training for the clinician to develop a comprehensive protocol and incorporate all desired training modalities. A reassessment is usually conducted after 20 sessions, offering an opportunity to evaluate the training goals and outcomes with each client and collaboratively decide on the next steps.

Neurofeedback is completely non-invasive, no electrical current is going into the brain. Instead, we monitor the brain’s electrical activity in specific areas in the brain and we show parts of that information back to the brain. The process is based on the brain’s ability to change with experience, a process called neuroplasticity.

With enough repetition, the brain will retain the gains over time. When addressing long-standing dysregulation, it might take longer for the brain to master self-regulation. Often, clients will return for tune-ups to help maintain optimal function.

Payment for the services is expected at the time of the session. We don’t work with insurance but we can offer a superbill that the client can submit themselves. Before doing so, the client should contact the insurance provider and inquire about coverage for Biofeedback, which includes Neurofeedback.