FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

What is neurofeedback therapy?

Neurofeedback therapy is a non-invasive therapy that uses electroencephalography (EEG) technology to read your brain waves in order to reveal your dynamic brain activity- giving you insight on how your mind works. Sensors are placed on your head to  measure your brain waves. Our technology reads these brain waves in real time and gives you feedback in the form of audio and visual cues. Your brain is rewarded with these cues whenever it is exerting positive brain activity such as relaxation, focus, and attention. With repetition, it becomes easier for your brain to reach this desired state. 


What conditions can neurofeedback therapy help treat?

Neurofeedback therapy can help treat a wide range of conditions. These include: anxiety, ADHD, sleep disorders, depression, traumatic brain injuries, memory loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and autism. In addition, neurofeedback can be used on healthy minds to reach their peak performance by improving memory, focus, alertness, and mental acuity. 


How many neurofeedback sessions do I need?

Since every individual is unique, and the time it takes to notice results varies, there is no typical number of sessions for an individual. From the latest research on neurofeedback therapy, treatment is most effective with sessions twice a week. For each protocol, we normally see the effects occur with 20 sessions but that may change according to an individual’s needs. Our clinical director, Maryam Mills, works closely with each individual to monitor their progress and to adjust their treatment plan accordingly. 


Can I do neurofeedback if I’m on medication?

Yes, neurofeedback therapy still works if taking medication. There are certain types of medication that can slow down or interfere with neurofeedback training. A list of medications may need to be provided to us to help us analyze and accommodate for any effects the medication may have on your brain activity.


Are you putting anything into my brain when I do neurofeedback?

No, nothing goes into your brain. Instead, we measure your brain activity. 


How quickly can I expect to see results?

Since every individual’s brain is different, the time it takes to see results will vary. Some clients notice some type of change within the first few sessions. They may start to feel calmer, more focused, and have better sleep. Others may feel these effects during or immediately after a session. It can take up to 10 sessions or longer to notice any effects. Since neurofeedback is a type of learning for your brain, the more practice you do, the more effective the results. 


Does neurofeedback hurt?

No, neurofeedback therapy is non-invasive. We place sensors on your scalp and clips on  your ears to read your brain activity while removing the activity coming from your heartbeat. Clients who are tactile sensitive may feel some pressure from the clips attached to their ears. 


Are the benefits of neurofeedback permanent?

Generally, once the brain learns and adapts to a new pattern of activity- the results last. However, if you are confronted with an unexpected challenge that affects brain activity (such as trauma, brain injury, or extreme stress), this may impede your progress. In these cases, you may need maintenance sessions to get the brain re-stabilized. 


Can I do neurofeedback if I’m also undergoing counselling?

Absolutely! Neurofeedback therapy can be a powerful tool alongside psychotherapy. However, it is not a replacement for it. We encourage clients to seek the best care suitable for their individual needs. 


How long is a neurofeedback session?

Sessions typically run for around 20-25 minutes of active training time plus time to set-up and clean-up after for a total of about 45 minutes. Anything longer will tend to make the brain fatigued during training. 


How much do sessions cost?

Each neurofeedback therapy session costs $140 (excluding tax). 


Is neurofeedback therapy covered under insurance?

Neurofeedback therapy is covered under counselling services. Coverage through insurance companies varies. If you are unsure what your coverage includes, it is best to  call your insurance provider to find out more. 


Are there factors that can impact neurofeedback?

There are a few factors that can hinder the effectiveness of neurofeedback training. Some of these include:

  • Infrequency of training
  • ‘Giving up’ due to frustration, impatience, or slow progress
  • Diet and nutrition
  • Lack of exercise
  • Lack of a support system
  • Alcohol or recreational drug use

Are there any negative side-effects in doing neurofeedback?

No long-term negative side effects have been reported in doing neurofeedback training.
Sometimes clients may experience an increase in symptoms as their brain adjusts to a new pattern of activity. This increase usually goes away rapidly on its own or can be reduced by an adjustment in the treatment protocol.