Neurofeedback
If you are looking for improved emotional control (such as getting past trauma or working through addictions) or increased physiological stability (such as improved ability to focus or reduced headaches), neurofeedback may be what you’ve been hoping for. Neurofeedback is brain training accomplished by giving the brain a way to observe itself and thus regulate itself to more optimal functioning. Neurofeedback addresses brain dysregulation such as addiction, anxiety & depression, attention deficits (ADD/ADHD), behavior disorders, sleep dysregulations, headaches & migraines, PMS & emotional disturbances. It is also useful for organic brain conditions such as seizures, the autism spectrum, and cerebral palsy.
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that acts as a reward system for the brain to restore your brainwave patterns to a more optimal range of functioning. It is a non-invasive treatment that works toward improving the source of your unwanted health symptoms. Neurofeedback differs from medicine in that it treats the issue at its core, whereas meds can only alleviate symptoms for as long as they are in your system simply by masking the initial problem.
How does it work?
Neurofeedback is as easy as watching a movie of your choice or playing a video game. While watching your movie, an EEG (sensors on your head) monitors how fast or slow your brainwaves are firing and subconsciously teaches your brain to fire at more optimal speeds. The movie you’re watching only plays when your brainwaves are functioning within an optimal range, rewarding your brain. When your brainwaves fire at a rate that’s too slow, too often or too fast, the movie will pause — providing immediate feedback to your brain that something is out of balance. Over the course of our brain performance training program, your brain may learn from this feedback and lasting structural changes within your brain may take place, allowing the brain to consistently operate within an optimal range outside of the training environment, alleviating your symptoms.
What does Neurofeedback treat?
Neurofeedback is used to treat many conditions such as: ADHD and ADD, stress disorders, anxiety, panic attacks, autism, Aspergers, depression, headaches, migraines, concussions and sleep issues. It also may be used to aid memory concerns; to help individuals struggling with epilepsy, PTSD, Tourette Syndrome, obsessive/compulsive behaviors and aggression; as well as to repair brain damage from stroke or a traumatic brain injury.
Many professional athletes and business professionals also use neurofeedback to improve mental performance and productivity through increased focus and better stress management. Many individuals experience supplemental benefits to neurofeedback training, which can include improved sleep quality, less anxiety, greater ability to adapt and tackle daily challenges and greater overall cognitive processing.
Neurofeedback is as easy as watching a movie of your choice or playing a video game. While watching your movie, an EEG (sensors on your head) monitors how fast or slow your brainwaves are firing and subconsciously teaches your brain to fire at more optimal speeds. The movie you’re watching only plays when your brainwaves are functioning within an optimal range, rewarding your brain. When your brainwaves fire at a rate that’s too slow, too often or too fast, the movie will pause — providing immediate feedback to your brain that something is out of balance. Over the course of our brain performance training program, your brain may learn from this feedback and lasting structural changes within your brain may take place, allowing the brain to consistently operate within an optimal range outside of the training environment, alleviating your symptoms.
Neurofeedback Fees
Is Neurofeedback covered by insurance?
You will have to contact your insurance provider in order to determine if neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback) is covered. Some insurances do cover Biofeedback, but may require that you meet certain diagnostic criteria first. You may be able to use your Health Savings Account (HSA) to pay for your sessions. I do offer a package that covers:
Neurofeedback Assessment
- Includes consultation, baseline standardized test of attention, and neurofeedback session
20 Sessions and Reassessment
- Includes last two sessions and reassessment at no charge
Individual Neurofeedback Sessions
Reassessment
- Consultation and standardized attention retest
Below are some questions to ask your insurance provider when you make the call.
Do you cover biofeedback?
If yes, is it under Medical or Psychological Services?
Will you cover biofeedback for (your symptom)?
What rate do you pay?
(e.g. 80% of usual and customary vs. 80% of billed amount)
If it is covered under Medical Services, do I need a prescription or letter from my MD to say it is medically necessary?
Do I need to send the letter before I see the biofeedback therapist or can it go in with the first bill?
How many sessions of biofeedback will you cover?
Per year?
Before I see the doctor again?
Is there a limit of total amount paid out?
(e.g., pay for biofeedback only to $1500 in one year or 6 months)
Do you pay an out-of-network provider?
If so, do I need to see my primary care physician to make a referral to a biofeedback provider?
What is the licensing requirement of the provider?
Would it be helpful to have the biofeedback code?
If so, it is 90901 (biofeedback)
Also, please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
