Sara Fernández M.S,LMFT
Psychotherapist
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback is direct training of brain function, by which the brain learns to function more efficiently. We observe the brain in action from moment to moment. We show that information back to the person. We reward the brain for changing its own activity to patterns that are more appropriate. This is a gradual learning process. It applies to any aspect of brain function that we can measure. Neurofeedback is also called EEG Biofeedback, because it is based on electrical brain activity, the electroencephalogram, or EEG. Neurofeedback is training in self-regulation. It is simply biofeedback applied to the brain directly. Self-regulation is a necessary part of good brain function. Self-regulation training allows the system (the central nervous system) to function better.
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What is Neurofeedback used for?
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Neurofeedback addresses problems of brain dysregulation. These happen to be numerous. They include the anxiety-depression spectrum, attention deficits, behavior disorders, various sleep disorders, headaches and migraines, PMS and emotional disturbances. It is also useful for organic brain conditions such as seizures, the autism spectrum, and cerebral palsy.
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Neurofeedback benefits people who have the following symptoms:
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ADD/ADHD
Addictions
Anxiety
Chronic Pain
Concentration and Focus problems
Depression
Learning Disorders
Migraines
Muscle Tension
OCD
Panic Attacks
Peak Performance
PMS
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Restlessness
Stress
Sleeping Difficulties/issues
Tics
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How is Neurofeedback done?
Sensors are attached to the scalp with EEG paste to record your brainwaves. It is painless and does not involve the application of any voltage or current to your brain, so it is entirely non-invasive.
A computer processes the brain waves and extracts certain information from them. The ebb and flow of your brain waves and the specific information obtained from them, are shown back to you in the form of a movie, game, or video game. You are instructed how to play the video game using only your brainwaves. (Everyone can do it.) The specific brain wave frequencies and the electrode locations on the scalp will vary from person to person.
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Does Neurofeedback cure symptoms or conditions?
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In the case of organic brain disorders, it is just a matter of getting the brain to function better rather than curing the condition. In the case of dysregulation there really is no disease to be cured. Where dysregulation is the primary issue, self-regulation is likely the remedy. But the term cure again would not apply.
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What will happen in the evaluation?
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The therapist will begin by asking a series of questions to better understand your central nervous system’s need. At this time, you will be able to discuss a list of symptoms you would like to address. In addition, you will participate in standardized test for attention and impulsivity (QIK). Finally, you will be able to have neurofeedback. The evaluation will take approximately 2 hours.
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āāHow many sessions do I need?
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Since each person’s symptoms are different, every neurofeedback experience is different. Typically, a full package of 20 sessions is recommended for a good degree of symptom resolution. Keep in mind, the more sessions a person gets, the longer the effects will last. After 20 sessions, I will re-assess and may recommend more sessions depending on whether the symptoms you are seeking to reduce/eliminate need more attention. In addition, a “maintenance” session is recommended every once in a while, to keep the brain’s self-regulation active.
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Do Training Effects Last?
If the problem being addressed is one of brain dysregulation, then the answer is yes, and that covers a lot of ground. Neurofeedback involves learning by the brain and if that brings order out of disorder, the brain will continue to use its new capabilities, and thus reinforce them.
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Matters are different when we are dealing with degenerative conditions like Parkinson’s or the dementias, or when we are working against continuing insults to the system, as may be the case in the autism spectrum. In such cases the training needs to be continued at some level over time. Allergic susceptibilities and food intolerances make it more difficult to hold the gains. Poor digestive function will pose a problem, as does poor nutrition. A child living in a toxic environment (in either the physical or the psychological sense) will have more difficulty retaining good function.
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Do you take insurances to cover for my neurofeedback treatment?
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Some insurance companies may cover the cost of biofeedback sessions; however, we ask that you work directly with your insurance company for reimbursement. The therapist will give you a "superbill" of your payment which may be submitted to your insurance company.
To find out if you are covered, call your insurance company and ask the following questions:
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Do you cover biofeedback?
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Is it under medical or psychological services?
(If psychological services, then a letter will be provided for you from the therapist; if medical services then ask if you need a prescription or letter from your MD to say that it is medically necessary; then ask if the letter can be sent with the first bill you send them for reimbursement) -
Do you need the biofeedback code or CPT code? If so, it's 90901
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If biofeedback is covered then what rate do you pay? i.e. 80% of the billed amount.
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What is the cost of Neurofeedback?
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A 20 minute consultation may be scheduled for free. Prices for sessions are very comparable to the cost of psychotherapy sessions. Buying session packages, such as 20 sessions at a time, will save hundreds of dollars. (Click here for cost)
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