Introduction

Neurofeedback is an emerging form of therapy that’s making waves in the cognitive health industry. Living with chronic stress and anxiety can take a toll on your mental and physical health, but neurofeedback offers a way to rewire your brain for better coping.

In this article, we’ll tell you what neurofeedback is, how it works, and the potential benefits – as well as its side effects and costs associated.

We’ll also delve into neurofeedback services versus doing it at home and what a neurofeedback machine will cost.

Finally, I’ll introduce some devices you can use for home-based neurofeedback sessions – no therapist required!

I also want to let you know that I’ve never used neurofeedback. Up until now, I’ve relied on Paroxetine, a generic version of the antidepressant Paxil. And while Paroxetine has been a life-saver and I am hugely grateful for it, I want to move on to neurofeedback to try and cure the issues rather than rely on a drug for the rest of my life.

So I wrote this blog mostly as research for myself. If it helps you too, all the better!

Key Points

• Neurofeedback uses sensors to measure electrical activity in your brain. The information can help people control thought processes, emotions, and behaviors including ADHD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia, and potentially, Alzheimer’s, autism, addiction, and OCD.
• Neurofeedback can be an alternative to, or complimentary with, EMDR, TMS, or pharmaceuticals.
• Side effects are usually mild and short-term.
• Neurofeedback therapy can cost $50-$200 per session.
• Neurofeedback is rarely covered by insurance. Medicaid and Medicare are on a case-by-case basis.
• Neurofeedback at home is definitely a possibility but you should work with a therapeutic professional first to establish a methodology.
• The MUSE 2 and the Entertech Flowtime are your best bet both price-wise and in terms of app-quality, for home use.
• The only book I found appropriate (and reasonably priced) is Neurofeedback 101 by Michael P. Cohen.

Table of Contents

What is Neurofeedback?
How does neurofeedback work?
Biofeedback versus Neurofeedback
EMDR vs Neurofeedback
TMS vs Neurofeedback (Transcranial magnetic stimulation versus Neurofeedback)
PTSD and Neurofeedback
OCD and Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback and ADHD
Neurofeedback side effects
Cost of Neurofeedback therapy
Is Neurofeedback covered by insurance?
Is Neurofeedback covered by Medicaid?
Is Neurofeedback covered by Medicare?
Neurofeedback at Home
Neurofeedback home devices
Neurofeedback books
Conclusion

What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback, also called EEG biofeedback, is a type of training that uses sensors to measure electrical activity in the brain. This information is then used to help people learn how to change their brain activity.

Neurofeedback can be used to treat conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. It is also being studied as a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, autism, and addiction.

In most cases, neurofeedback is done with the help of a trained therapist. Sessions usually last 30-60 minutes and are usually done once or twice a week. The number of sessions needed varies from person to person.

The risks of neurofeedback are generally low. The most common side effect is headache. Some people may also experience dizziness, fatigue, or skin irritation from the sensors.
The cost of neurofeedback varies depending on the number of sessions needed and the location of the therapy. In general, each session costs between $50 and $200.

How does neurofeedback work?

Neurofeedback is a type of therapy that uses sensors to read the electrical activity in your brain. This information is then used to help you learn to control your own brainwaves.

The idea behind neurofeedback is that you can retrain your brain to function better. For example, if you have trouble sleeping, neurofeedback can help you learn to slow down your brainwaves so you can fall asleep more easily.

Neurofeedback has been shown to be effective for a variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression. It is also sometimes used to help with migraines and chronic pain.

Side effects from neurofeedback are rare but can include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Costs for neurofeedback vary depending on the number of sessions needed and the type of equipment used.

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback or neurotherapy, is a type of brain training that uses sensors to measure brain activity and feedback to help the brain learn to function better.

The basic idea behind neurofeedback is that we can retrain the brain to work more efficiently by rewarding it when it produces desired patterns of activity. For example, if we want to improve focus and attention, we would provide rewards for brainwaves associated with those states. Over time, the brain learns to produce those patterns more often, leading to improved focus and attention.

There is a growing body of research showing that neurofeedback can be an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, sleep problems, and migraines. Neurofeedback is usually provided by a trained therapist using specialized equipment. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes and are usually done several times per week over a period of several weeks or months.

Side effects from neurofeedback are rare but can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and irritability. The most common side effect is increased anxiety during or immediately after treatment sessions. This is usually due to the stress of trying to meet performance goals set by the therapist. Most people tolerate neurofeedback well and find it beneficial.

Biofeedback versus Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, also called EEG biofeedback, is a type of therapy that uses electrical signals from the brain to help people learn to control their thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Neurofeedback can be used to treat conditions like ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more.

There are two main types of neurofeedback: Biofeedback and Neurotherapy.

Biofeedback is a relaxation technique that uses sensors to measure things like heart rate, skin temperature, and muscle tension. The goal is to help the person learn to control these bodily responses in order to reduce stress.

Neurofeedback, on the other hand, involves hooking up sensors to the scalp in order to measure brain activity. The goal is to help the person learn to self-regulate their brain activity in order to improve focus, concentration, and overall cognitive function.

So, which one is better? That depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re simply looking for a way to relax and reduce stress, then biofeedback may be a good option for you. However, if you’re looking for a way to improve your cognitive function, then neurofeedback may be a better option.

There are many different types of biofeedback and neurofeedback devices available on the market today. Some are designed for use in a clinical setting, while others are portable and can be used in the comfort of your own home. For information on home use neurofeedback devices, see Neurofeedback home devices.

If you’re considering neurofeedback as a treatment option, it’s important to consult with a qualified practitioner to discuss whether it’s right for you.

EMDR vs Neurofeedback

EMDR is a type of therapy that uses eye movements to help people process and heal from trauma. Neurofeedback is a type of therapy that uses brainwaves to help people with ADHD, anxiety, and other conditions. Both therapies have been found to be effective, but there are some key differences between them.

EMDR is typically shorter in duration than neurofeedback, and it does not require the person to be hooked up to any machines. Neurofeedback requires the person to wear sensors on their head, which can be uncomfortable for some people.

EMDR can be used to treat a wide range of traumas, whereas neurofeedback is most often used to treat ADHD and anxiety. EMDR is considered more expensive than neurofeedback, although costs can vary depending on the therapist and the number of sessions required.

Some people may prefer EMDR because it does not require the use of machines, while others may prefer neurofeedback because it can be used to specifically target ADHD and anxiety.

Ultimately, the decision of which therapy to choose should be made by a qualified mental health professional after assessing the individual’s needs.

I have used EMDR with my therapist. It was an amazing experience and helped a great deal with “rewriting” my painful childhood experiences; in other words, removing shame and humiliation from those experiences so they no longer haunted my daily life.

I can tell you, if you are going to use EMDR, you need to work with a therapist you trust. It also requires you to be willing to explore some of your worst childhood experiences so you can “rewrite” the experience. It’s scary work but if you have the courage, it can be transforming.

TMS vs Neurofeedback (Transcranial magnetic stimulation versus Neurofeedback)

There are two main types of neurofeedback: TMS and neurofeedback. TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation, while neurofeedback is a more general term that includes various methods of stimulating the brain.

TMS has been found to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. It is also being studied as a possible treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurological conditions. TMS is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia or sedation. The most common side effect of TMS is headaches.

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses electrical or magnetic stimulation to alter brain activity. Neurofeedback has been used to treat conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, migraines, and chronic pain. Like TMS, neurofeedback is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia or sedation. The most common side effect of neurofeedback is headaches.

For more on TMS treatment, here’s a link to the Mayo Clinic on TMS

PTSD and Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time EEG monitoring to provide feedback to the user about their brain activity. The aim of neurofeedback is to help the user self-regulate their brain activity in order to improve mental well-being and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and sleep disorders.

There is a growing body of research indicating that neurofeedback can be an effective treatment for PTSD. A 2013 study found that neurofeedback was associated with reduced symptoms of PTSD, including decreased intrusive thoughts, avoidance, and hyperarousal. Additionally, a 2014 study found that neurofeedback was associated with decreased symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals with PTSD.

If you are considering neurofeedback as a treatment for PTSD, it is important to consult with a qualified practitioner to ensure that you are receiving quality care. Neurofeedback should be provided by a certified professional who has extensive training in EEG assessment and interpretation. The costs of neurofeedback can vary depending on the number of sessions required and the specific provider. However, many insurance companies will cover at least some of the costs associated with this treatment.

OCD and Neurofeedback

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which people have unwanted and repeated thoughts, feelings, images, and sensations (obsessions) and engage in behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) in response to these obsessions.

Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time displays of brain activity to teach self-regulation of brainwaves. Neurofeedback has been shown to be an effective treatment for OCD, reducing symptoms by 50-80%.

Neurofeedback works by teaching people with OCD to become aware of their brain activity and learn to regulate it. It involves providing feedback in the form of visual or auditory cues through EEG sensors that measure electrical activity in the brain. This allows them to gradually understand how changes in their mental state affect their brain waves, allowing them to regulate their own emotions and impulses.

Neurofeedback and ADHD

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a type of neurotherapy that uses real-time feedback to help people self-regulate their brain activity. Neurofeedback has been found to be an effective treatment for ADHD, reducing symptoms in both children and adults.

What are the benefits of neurofeedback for ADHD?

Studies have found that neurofeedback can significantly reduce ADHD symptoms, including impulsivity, hyperactivity, inattention, and emotional problems. Neurofeedback can also improve academic performance and social functioning. In some cases, symptom relief may be long-lasting even after treatment has ended.

Neurofeedback side effects

There are a number of potential side effects associated with neurofeedback. These include:

-Headaches
-Dizziness
-Nausea
-Fatigue
-Anxiety
-Irritability

It is important to note that these side effects are typically mild and transient. They usually resolve within a few sessions of neurofeedback training.

When compared to the side effects of most psycho-therapeutic drugs which don’t cure the problem, the side effects seem minor.

Cost of Neurofeedback therapy

Neurofeedback therapy is usually provided by a trained clinician in an office setting. Some clinicians may also provide home-based neurofeedback therapy, which can be done using special computer software and hardware.

The cost of neurofeedback therapy will vary depending on the clinician providing the service, the number of sessions required, and whether home-based or office-based neurofeedback therapy is used. In general, neurofeedback therapy costs range from $50-$200 per session.

Another option to consider was taken by Dave Asprey, as described in his book Super Human (p. 105 – Neurofeedback for Dummies). He was struggling with his fight-flight-freeze response being easily triggered by things like a telephone ringing.

I’ve also struggled with the same overpowering response to simple, relatively loud noises. I was diagnosed as being on the autistic scale because of other overwhelming responses to sounds most people take for granted.

Anyway, to get back to Dave Asprey’s experience with neurofeedback, after a number of sessions with a professional, he chose to buy a neurofeedback unit and work with it at home.

Both he and I highly recommend that you work with a professional to begin with to get the gist of how neurofeedback works and how to use it for your benefit, specific to your issue.

See the section below on Neurofeedback at Home…

Is Neurofeedback covered by insurance?

In most cases, neurofeedback is not covered by insurance. However, some insurance providers may cover neurofeedback for certain conditions, such as ADHD. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover neurofeedback before beginning treatment.

If your insurance provider does not cover neurofeedback, some practitioners may offer sliding scale fees or discounts for those who are unable to afford the full cost of treatment.

I have United Healthcare and they consider neurofeedback “alternative medicine” and so they will not pay for it. Another reason to consider taking a few treatments with a professional and then working on your own from home.

By the way, let your neurofeedback specialist know that you will be switching to home neurofeedback so they can train you as they work with you.

Is Neurofeedback covered by Medicaid?

No definitive answer exists as to whether neurofeedback is covered by Medicaid, as the answer may vary depending on each individual case. It is important to note, however, that Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program that is designed to provide financial assistance to low-income individuals and families.

As such, it is possible that neurofeedback therapy may be covered under Medicaid if it is deemed medically necessary for the treatment of a particular condition. However, coverage may also be denied if it is determined that neurofeedback is not a medically necessary treatment.

Consequently, it is advisable to consult with a medical professional and/or Medicaid representative to determine whether or not coverage would be available in specific cases.

Is Neurofeedback covered by Medicare?

It is unclear whether neurofeedback is covered by Medicare, as the treatment is considered experimental and has not yet been approved by the FDA. However, some insurance providers may cover neurofeedback for certain conditions, such as ADHD. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see if they will cover neurofeedback before beginning treatment.

Neurofeedback at Home

Neurofeedback is a form of biofeedback that uses real-time electrical brain activity measurements to provide feedback to the user. This feedback can be used to help the user modify their behavior, thoughts, or emotions.

Neurofeedback has been traditionally delivered in a clinical setting by trained professionals. However, recent advances in technology have made it possible for neurofeedback to be delivered at home. Home-based neurofeedback has many advantages over traditional clinical neurofeedback, including convenience, privacy, and cost-effectiveness.

There are a number of different types of home-based neurofeedback devices available on the market. These devices use sensors to measure electrical activity in the brain and provide feedback via audio, visual, or tactile means. Some devices are even wearable, so that users can receive feedback while going about their daily activities.

Home-based neurofeedback has been shown to be effective for a variety of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and PTSD. It is also being investigated as a potential treatment for addiction and chronic pain. If you are considering home-based neurofeedback, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure that it is right for you.

Neurofeedback home devices

There are a number of neurofeedback home devices on the market that allow you to train your brainwaves in the comfort of your own home. Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time monitoring of brainwave activity to feedback information to the user.

This feedback can be used to help the user adjust their thoughts and behaviors in order to achieve desired states of consciousness, such as increased focus and concentration.

Neurofeedback devices usually consist of sensors that attach to the scalp and measure brainwave activity, along with some form of feedback mechanism (such as visuals on a screen or audio cues). The sensors pick up electrical signals from the brain and send them to the feedback device, which then provides information about the frequency and amplitude of the brainwaves.

Based on this information, the user can make changes to their thoughts and behaviors in order to change their brainwave activity and achieve desired states of consciousness.

There are a number of different neurofeedback devices available on the market, ranging in price from around $200 for home use neurofeedback devices to $2000 for clinical use devices.

The most popular home-based neurofeedback devices are the Muse 2 and the Entertech Flowtime.

The Muse 2

is a lightweight EEG headset that can track brainwaves in real-time to provide users with feedback about their focus levels. The MUSE S is similar except that it is more expensive and has lower ratings. I don’t know why you wouldn’t just get the MUSE 2.

MUSE 2 basics: The MUSE 2 has a wireless connection, 5 hour battery, multiple users, MicroUSB port with cable, works with iOS and Android, pretty extensive app including an EEG screen. Best price I found was on Amazon at $199.

The Entertech Flowtime

is advertised as a meditation headband, but if you read the description of its capabilities and phone app, this is a fully equipped neurofeedback device. Learn More about the Entertech Flowtime.

Entertech Flowtime basics:

Real-time brainwaves, heart rate, breath coherence; scientifically validated lessons in the app, comparison capability with seven previous sessions; Bluetooth; iOS or Android. Best price I found was on Amazon for $183. I have enough credits on Amazon to get it for $171. I’ll keep you updated on my progress.

Neurofeedback books

Neurofeedback 101: Rewiring the Brain for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Beyond (without medication) Paperback – March 6, 2020

by Michael P. Cohen (Author) 4.1 out of 35 ratings on Goodreads

While the author uses the early pages to express his opinion of medication as an option (having ADHD myself, I may not agree with medication as a treatment, but I think that decision should be left up to the family, not the author), the rest of the book is really helpful to get a deep understanding of neurofeedback without overwhelming you with a lot of jargon or unnecessary technical background.

Additionally, the other books I found on neurofeedback were ridiculously expensive or written for practitioners, not potential users. This is a good introductory text.

Conclusion

Writing this post pretty much answered all my questions about Neurofeedback. I have ADHD, anxiety, and I’m on the autistic scale. I’m going to try it.

I’m probably going to buy the Entertech Flowtime and then work with a professional for a few sessions until I feel comfortable using it myself. I’ll report on my progress in the comments below.

Neurofeedback is a fascinating, powerful therapy that may be used for a variety of conditions. It can also be helpful for individuals who want to increase general wellness or performance levels.

Before beginning neurofeedback, it’s important to discuss its risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Additionally, consider the cost and insurance coverage in order to decide if this therapy is the right option for you.

Ultimately, those who undertake neurofeedback often experience positive changes that radically improve their quality of life.
Let me know about your experience in the comments. I’d also be curious to know if you invested in the MUSE 2 or the Entertech Flowtime and what you think of the unit you chose.