Neurofeedback FAQs

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback training that uses electroencephalogram (EEG) to train the brain.

Once a QEEG is acquired on an individual, an individualized training protocol is created based on their brain activity. This training protocol basically asks the brain to change in some way.

For example, if an individual has an excess of high beta activity in their right temporal lobe, the training protocol will reward the brain when it lowers that activity in that specific problematic area. Using a computer and operant conditioning, stimulus is used as the reward. For eyes open training, a video is used.

The video’s audio and picture modulate on and off, rewarding the brain when it’s brainwaves take to the requested pattern, and turning off and going silent when the brain returns to the pattern it is accustomed to.

This modulation happens at a very fast rate. As the sessions progress, the new neural pathways solidify in the brain.

To learn more please read the full article titled  What Is Neurofeedback

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Each session takes about an hour. This consists of assisting with capping, checking to see if the electrodes have the proper connections between the cap and the person’s scalp.

Then there are 30 minutes of eyes open neurofeedback training using a video, followed by an equal amount of time eyes closed training using a compilation of audio tones.

Our Brain Specailists have developed specific algorithms that can predict the number of sessions required.

Most trainees respond to 10 sessions. Individual results are based on accuracy of training, number of sites needing training, duration of training and learning ability of the trainee.

Generally, 10 to 40 sessions are required, with the average being 20 sessions.

After every 10 sessions, or at the completion of your course of treatment, a follow-up Qeeg will be performed. This is then compared to your previous Qeeg to track improvement.

Generally, the results obtained from Neuropractic are long lasting.

Some studies have shown that individuals who learned computer aided braintraining were able to demonstrate brainwave changes even after ten years.

Results vary and some individuals require tune-ups from time to time.

Neuropractic is a learning technique that works on the central nervous system to promote self-regulation, emotional balance and assist in healing, using a computer/human interface to shape the brainwaves towards a more adaptive pattern.
The technique has been used successfully in tens of thousands of clients.

NeuropracticTM is an educational technique based on two principals, calibration of brain activity and reconnection with life. The technique was developed through Dr. Starr’s experience with over twenty years in the mental health and neuroscience fields.

NeuropracticTM takes into account all of the factors that may cause suffering and assists the individual to recalibrate their nervous system and to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings.

The evaluation is based on the Quantitative Electroencephalogram, brain performance testing and our detailed questionnaires.

A quantitative electroencephalogram (Qeeg) is the analysis of an EEG that has been collected and converted into a digital format.

The results of the analysis are called brain maps. These maps allow a clinician to detect subtle variations in the activity of the brain which can go unnoticed in a traditional EEG.

Subtle brain wave variations might provide evidence of an underlying issue that can be evaluated and treated.

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is the measurement of electrical patterns at the surface of the scalp which reflects brain activity.

These patterns are commonly referred to as brain waves. EEG is often used to detect problems in electrical brain activity which can be caused by brain disorders.

The difference between the two is simple, it’s the “q”. A standard EEG records the brainwaves which shows a person’s electrical brain activity. EEG data is usually represented by rolling, wavy lines on paper which are interpreted by a clinician. Meanwhile, a Qeeg uses complex analysis to compare these brainwaves to various databases to help detect possible abnormalities A Qeeg analysis will allow us to create brain maps of the person’s electrical brain activity. This allows a clinician to detect possible irregularities not seen on a normal EEG.

To learn more please read the article; EEG vs. QEEG

A Qeeg is a completely non-invasive procedure. An EEG electrode cap is put on the person’s head. Each cap has 20 electrode sensors aligned at various locations to collect specific electrical activity.

A small amount of conductive gel is put into each sensor to ensure a clear connection between the electrode and the person’s scalp. Once the connection between the cap and scalp is checked all the scan can begin.

The client will sit in a chair quietly for a few minutes with eyes closed and then another few minutes of recording with their eyes open. During this time the computer is recording and saving the electrical activity in the brain. The entire process takes 15 minutes.

No, the client will feel nothing. The cap is non-invasive, it only reads the electrical output of the brain. It can be compared to a thermometer taking a temperature.

Once the Qeeg is acquired the scans are sent to the Doctors to post process the Qeeg, removing artifacts such as eye blinks and head movement. Once the post processing is complete, the Doctors will then make specific Neurofeedback training protocols for the individual client.

The Doctor will then do a live video conference with the client, reviewing the initial Qeeg and explaining the findings, as well as the reasonings for the specific Neurofeedback protocol which is to be carried out by our Brain Tuners.

The keys to success in brain recalibration are accuracy, duration, and frequency of training. Our trainees achieve great success through daily training for up to one hour per session. Some trainees choose to train twice per day for additional benefit.

During Braintuning you wear a cap with nineteen sensors placed strategically around your head. There is no electrical current passed into the brain.

Braintuning is a learning process. Some people report feeling more alert or calm after a session. Results are usually noticed within one to five sessions.

No. Neuropractic is an educational tool that works directly on the brain and central nervous system to re-calibrate brainwaves and assist with brain efficiency.

As a result of Neuropractic, trainees report feeling calmer, more balanced, focused, rested, and mindful. Neuropractic cannot treat or diagnose any psychiatric disorder as these are based on observation and not brainwaves. There is no parallel.

Neuropractic is not a medical technique, it is an educational tool that helps teach the brain to work more efficiently.

It is safe to participate in Neurofeedback while taking medication. However, certain psychoactive medications can impede Neurofeedback training and it is optimal to be medication free when starting a course of Neurofeedback. Specifically, medications that depress the central nervous system or affect memory can negatively alter the Neurofeedback process. These mediations include Benzodiazepines and Opioids. Stopping medication is not an option for some people. In these cases, a work around can be devised. Once the brain has brought itself into a more stable electrical pattern some medications can be reduced safely with the prescribing doctor’s oversight.

Neurofeedback is not a way to “get off,” medication. It is a tool to reduce symptoms. If symptoms are reduced medication can be reduced with improved functioning. A significant proportion of our clients are able to discontinue their medications.

Neurofeedback is safe for children, but age and maturity are important factors to consider. We have seen children as young as three respond favorably to Neurofeedback.

The optimal age in childhood for Neurofeedback is around seven years old. At this age, the brain has reached a level of maturity and stability. Before this age, there is a great amount of brain development and therefore a successful round of training may not last as long as it would in an adult. Teenagers do especially well with Neurofeedback.

The are already computer savvy and have an understanding that the computer can assist their brain to function better. Younger children and Teenagers tend to take fewer sessions because their younger brains learn faster.

Most children and young adults enjoy Neurofeedback and no additional preparation is needed. Some young clients have severe sensory processing issues and may not like having an EEG cap on their heads.

It is best to sensitize these children with a swimming cap or shower cap leading up to the sessions so they are comfortable having something on their heads.

Side effects can be avoided with proper technique. This is why it is so important to determine the experience of your practitioner.

Do they have a clinical degree in mental health? If the answer is no, I would run for the hills. Individuals without specific professional training in mental health have no business working in this field without proper supervision.

How long have they been doing Neurofeedback and are they certified by an international organization that requires some standard of practice. In North America the organization is called The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America and in Europe there is the Biofeedback Federation of Europe. These certifying bodies have ethical standards, prerequisites, and exams.

There are several companies that offer mail order Neurofeedback Degrees if you pay the price. In order to minimize the chances of side effects, have a clinician with experience.

Accessed and analyzed through digital technology, these measurements primarily reflect cortical electrical activity or “brainwaves”.

Some brain waves occur at faster frequencies, or wave speeds; some are quite slow. The classic names of these EEG bands are delta, theta, alpha, and beta and are identified according to their frequency, which is measured in terms of repetitions per second, also called cycles per second (cps) or Hertz (Hz).

Once the client’s training package is complete they will meet with one of our doctors to review the results of their training.

The review will go over all of the brain maps taken during the training to compare where the differences from the client’s brain at the beginning of training to where it is post-training.

The doctor and the client will then consult on whether or not more neurofeedback would be beneficial for the client.