FAQ'S
Is it Painful?
Neurofeedback is non-invasive. Leads are placed on the scalp with a washable paste called Ten20 Paste (washes out with warm water) to record the brain waves and then are sent to an amplifier so the brain waves can be seen on the computer screen. The leads do not send electrical charges through the brain, in fact they don't send anything through the brain. The leads read and record the brain's waves through the scalp similarly to the way an EKG lead reads your heartbeat.
Is There Science Behind Neurofeedback?
Research information dates back to 1929 when German psychiatrist Hans Berger started studying EEG's. Dr. Barry (Maurice) Sterman was the first to discover usefulness for people who suffer from seizure disorders in the 1950's. This opened the door to many scientific studies and research articles. Many of these can be viewed on www.isnr.org in the section labeled Comprehensive Neurofeedback Bibliography.
How many sessions are needed?
Training sessions are dependent on the amount of dysfunction. Generally speaking most people will do between 15 and 40 sessions. The closer the sessions are together, the quicker the results.
What About Medication?
Another benefit about neurofeedback is that most people who come in on medications relating to ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorders and other neurologic disorders either reduce or discontinue their medications completely. If someone comes in currently taking medication the neurotherapist will advise them to consult with their medical practitioner for assistance with adjusting the medication as neurofeedback training progresses. It is the responsibility of the client to discuss this with their primary care physician or specialist.
Does Insurance Cover Neurofeedback Training?
Neurofeedback trains your brain and is not used to treat, prescribe or diagnose any disorder or illness therefore it is not covered by most insurance companies. People have been known to get reimbursement through a special section of their health coverage that covers alternative therapies such as acupuncture and massage. Unlike many other modalities neurofeedback is a permanent change and must be viewed for the long term benefits it provides. Dr. Woodbury understands that this is not considered within the medical scope of treatments and is therefore reasonably priced.