Neurotherapy FAQs
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Clinical Neurofeedback
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is biofeedback on the EEG (electroencephalogram, ‘brainwaves’). Clients are able to train their brain to better self-regulate.
Neurofeedback is a fun and highly effective therapy for a wide range of problems and disorders, including:
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Attention Disorders
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Anxiety
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Bipolar Disorder
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Depression
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Trauma
How does Neurofeedback work?
Sensors on your scalp measure your brainwaves. Neurofeedback software allows you to see your brainwaves and provides real-time feedback (through games or sounds) that alerts you as key brainwave rhythms change. In time, like practicing any skill, the brain learns or ‘trains’ how to better alter and regulate itself.
How long does Neurofeedback take to work?
Most people notice changes within the first 3-5 sessions. Most common cases require between 10-30 sessions. Of course, everyone’s brain, specific challenges, and goals are different so length of treatment will vary. Weekly sessions are sufficient, but twice-weekly is preferred - especially for the first 5-10 sessions.
How does Neurofeedback fit in with psychotherapy?
Talk-therapy is very effective at identifying and discussing problems and solutions. Neurofeedback allows clients to practice emotional regulation, focus, and neuroplasticity that is driven by real-time biodata. It can be combined with talk-therapy or used as a stand-alone treatment.
How do I know if Neurofeedback is right for me?
Because Neurofeedback can be completely individualized to train your brainwave patterns and goals, its uses and benefits are nearly endless. Neurofeedback is fun and safe to use, and can be easily added to your current therapy.
Will my insurance cover it?
Probably not. Both insurers we accept (CareFirst BCBS and Cigna/EverNorth) consider Neurofeedback/Biofeedback as “Experimental” and therefore don’t cover it. However, sometimes they actually do cover it. Unfortunately, after a dozen years of dealing with this issue there still isn’t a clear way to know ahead of time. We can submit claims to your Insurance and see what happens.
At-Home Neurofeedback options:
We do offer the option of supplementing your Neurofeedback training with an At-Home protocol using the Myndlift software and MUSE headset under the guidance and remote-supervision of your assigned Neurofeedback Therapist. Additional fees apply.
**Please see our information packet for more in-depth information:
qEEG Brain Mapping
Assessment: qEEG Brain Mapping
Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG), or the statistical analysis of the EEG (brainwaves) offers detailed insights into brain functioning and mental health disorders. These analyses and reports are commonly referred to as “Brain Maps.”
Efficient treatment begins with effective assessments. MICA’s qEEQ package is a robust, science-based evaluation process that provides personalized, empirically-driven treatment approaches for our clients’ unique goals. MICA is proud to collaborate with multiple experts to offer this comprehensive clinical assessment.
MICA’s Standards and Process for qEEG Brain Mapping:
We utilize clinical/research-grade equipment for our EEG recordings. Our client’s records are analyzed by two different Neurologists to assess the EEG and identify potential underlying neurological conditions. A third analysis and report is provided by Dr. Ron Swatzyna, a Clinical Psychologist and published researcher with decades of clinical experience with qEEG and Neurofeedback. MICA provides a further, fourth report which synthesizes and explains the abundance of technical findings in language that is easy to understand. Finally, we provide a face-to-face meeting to fully discuss all aspects and findings of the assessment and treatment options if indicated.
Why do a full, qEEG Brain Map?
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An in-depth brain analysis can identify relevant information not found in typical psychological testing or psychiatric assessments.
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Identify the physiological basis, or bio-markers for psychological problems
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Provide detailed, biological understanding for often-unseen or misunderstood psychological challenges.
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Identify underlying neurological abnormalities better suited for treatment by Neurologists or other medical providers
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Identify medication recommendations
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Can better direct Neurofeedback protocols or other treatments to speed efficacy
“Our qEEG’s are collaborative and comprehensive assessments that offer incredible insight and value to our clients.”
Process:
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In-depth computerized questionnaire, completed at home (approximately 60 min)
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Face-to-face diagnostic interview (60 min) *
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In-office EEG recording (allow for 90 min)
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Analyses and report-writing (usually 1-2 weeks)
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Face-to-face results discussion (60 min) *
* Denotes a psychotherapy session (CPT: 90791 or 90837) which may be covered by insurance.
Fee:
$1550 (BCBS or Cigna/Evernorth clients could pay as little as $1150)