Frequently Asked Questions
- 01
Absolutely! NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback is considered safe and non-invasive, which means that the device is not adding/doing anything to your brain. It does not involve manipulation of brainwave activity or the use of electrical currents, making it safe for individuals of all ages.
- 02
Since NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback does not force the brain to change, it does not create side effects. It is completely non-invasive.
- 03
Yes! NeurOptimal® received the General Wellness Device designation in 2018 as a safe product to be used directly by consumers. You can read the FDA Guideline statements from NeurOptimal® using the link below:
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- 04
Each session is approximately 33 minutes long. At home, it will also take you a few minutes to set up and remove the sensors at the start and end of each session. In the office, we will use additional time to review progress.
- 05
Every person's experience is different, with some people noticing shifts after the first session and some noticing after multiple sessions. For most people, real change and impact occur over multiple and frequently repeated sessions. The most commonly noted shifts occur for clients around 10 sessions.
- 06
Prior to training, you will attach two sensors to your scalp and three sensors to your ears. You will also place headphones/earbuds in your ears in order to hear auditory feedback (music track). During training, the software will read your brainwave activity and give precisely timed interruptions in the music track to alert your brain when maladaptive patterns are occurring. Passively, your brain will learn to self-correct which leads to improved brain performance.
- 07
Many clients report feeling more calm/relaxed, grounded, less stressed, more focused. Some clients may notice feeling tired after sessions, similar to the fatigue experienced after a good workout.
- 08
It is recommended to train your brain at least once per week, with up to daily NeurOptimal® sessions depending on your needs. Over time, and as you begin to attune to your brain's unique needs, you can try to align sessions with how you are feeling.
- 09
Your brain training session can be tailored to what feels comfortable for you! Many clients enjoy using the time to sit/lay back and relax, similar to meditating. Some clients enjoy doing stationary activities during sessions like reading a book, working on their computer, or playing a game. It is not recommended to use NeurOptimal® systems during activities that require a lot of movement (e.g., walking, exercising).
- 10
NeurOptimal® brain training can be equated to a learning task. Just like riding a bike, once your brain knows how to do it, it is very challenging to "unlearn". Based on this principle, the effects tend to be long-lasting. Our brains can get rusty over time and can also be impacted by stress, habits, and environmental factors. Therefore, some clients benefit from renting systems for "tune-ups" if they notice they are less resilient, more irritable, or more distracted.
- 11
NeurOptimal® brain training has the potential to work for many individuals based on its sound scientific principles. However, there are some factors that can make it difficult for clients to notice improvements.
Low number of sessions: brain training is effective when done through consistent repetition, just like building a muscle. It may not be effective if you do not complete the recommended number of sessions.
Active stessors: although a short-term factor, new active stressors during the course of neurofeedback may make it hard for you to notice changes.
Lifestyle: lifestyle choices significant impact brain health. These can include diet, physical activity, harmful substances, sleep hygiene, quality of relationships, and stress.
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NeurOptimal® sessions are $120/hour.
I also offer NeurOptimal® rental packages through my sister/partnered companies (NeurEvolve, 2beinflow) for $1200/month.