Additional Neurofeedback Information

Duration and Frequency of Treatment

Sessions typically last 45 to 50 minutes.  It is recommended that sessions take place twice a week, depending on the kinds of symptoms that are being addressed.  Training successes have been reported for a small number of clients who train only once a week but once a week training means learning occurs more slowly and individuals are more likely to drop out before seeing maximum benefits.

Length of Therapy

Noticeable results typically occur between the first and tenth session.  In most cases, therapists recommend a minimum of 30-40 sessions. Certain situations can require many more sessions. The goal is to complete enough training to insure consistent and lasting benefits.  

A specific plan, outlining frequency and duration of sessions, will be developed based on your brainwave pattern, severity of functional symptoms, and desired goals.  It is cautioned, however, that the benefits gained may not be sustained after neurofeedback training unless stabilization is clearly established (typically 30 sessions).

Limitations of Neurofeedback

Just as MDs and psychologists vary in effectiveness based on training and knowledge, this same thing is true of Neurofeedback practitioners. In addition, client compliance also plays a big role. Lack of consistency in training often will result in treatment failures.

There are many sites to train on the brain, and many different frequencies to choose from. Training each can have a different effect on the client. Choosing the right combination can require a mix of skill, knowledge and discernment to identify responsiveness. If the wrong protocol (frequency and site) is used, little or no effect may be noted.

Many therapists are finding that doing Neurofeedback without addressing underlying family system problems can also reduce the effectiveness of using Neurofeedback. Combining therapy for both appears to be a more effective approach.

Defining “benefit” is also a challenge. It’s important to set expectations with the clinician before you start training, and discuss the expectations on an ongoing basis.  Some clients may perceive failure symptoms don’t go away completely. Some clients are impatient, and may stop training if dramatic improvements aren’t seen quickly. Some clients are poor self-reporters and don’t recognize changes when they do occur. Be honest with the clinician about your experiences so this can be carefully tracked throughout the neurofeedback process.

Other Considerations

The research on neurofeedback is based on intervention conducted by a professional. The chances of success and the degree of success from office training is much more assured.

Professional licensing and training is part of the success of using Neurofeedback for good treatment outcomes. Formal Neurofeedback training at well-known organizations usually require a Masters or PhD level professional to conduct training programs, in order to also address psychological issues/concerns that can present during training sessions.

A majority of people are not qualified to run a Neurofeedback session at home. The quality of the hookup (placement of sensors) and the ability to assess when there is a problem is key. Trained neurofeedback clinicians clock hundreds of hours of supervised practice before providing this intervention independently.

Keep in mind that family dynamics and the home environment are not always a good fit for training.  If parents are training a child and have high expectations of performance (even if never stated), Neurofeedback training could be counterproductive. The person running the session is part of the equation, and in a sense, part of the feedback loop.

If you’re considering working with a clinician who supports home training, ask to hear from some of their clients who have been using the system for several months. Ask about challenges and success rate.