San Diego Neurofeedback Therapy, Neurofeedback Treatments, qEEG Brain Mapping, Brain Training Experts

Why should I choose Thrive Neurofeedback over other providers?

All neurofeedback providers are not equivalent. It is not uncommon to discover people going into practice who are not licensed, or who are licensed but inadequately trained. When deciding with whom to work, be certain that the individual overseeing the training is a licensed mental health provider or physician, and has had adequate training in the field of neurofeedback. At Thrive Neurofeedback in La Jolla, our clinicians and technicians provide a diversity of education and experience that is unmatched.

If qEEG and neurofeedback are so effective, why don’t more people use it?

It was first discovered in the 1960s that people could control their brainwave patterns. Because the field was in its infancy, research was conducted at very few institutions. Results were published in highly specialized scientific journals with which health care providers were largely unfamiliar. This meant that this powerful tool remained somewhat obscure. However, this is now changing. Advances in computer technology have enabled neurofeedback to emerge from the laboratory to become a useful clinical tool in the offices of mental health providers.

Are qEEG and neurofeedback covered by insurance?

Many medical insurance plans now cover neurofeedback for a wide array of conditions. Reimbursement to you varies by carrier and plan. Neurofeedback is generally covered by Medicare and some PPO insurance plans. We also offer reasonably priced cash-based packages as well.

Does qEEG and neurofeedback help with cognitive disabilities or learning disorders?

Thrive Neurofeedback has had success in working with clients with brain injuries and those suffering from many types of disabilities. Neurofeedback helps the brain become more efficient so that it works at its best capacity. If someone’s brain has been injured by a stroke or through surgery, the brain learns to “reroute” signals to create new neural pathways. Neurofeedback works with learning disabilities as well. Brain regions involved with learning can be strengthened, thus improving performance.

Can qEEG and neurofeedback help patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?

Neurofeedback can help the brain access areas that have not yet been affected by Alzheimer’s or dementia. This can slow symptom progression and help improve the quality of life. However, neurofeedback cannot improve or stop the physical degeneration of the brain.

Why do qEEG and neurofeedback work?

Your brain is adaptable. It is capable of making adjustments to improve its own performance if given cues about what to change. When the brain is regulating itself well and is alert and attentive, brainwaves show healthy patterns. We challenge the brain to maintain this “high-performance” alert and active state. Gradually, the brain learns to stay at this high-performance state for longer periods of time and to retain these new skills.

What conditions can be improved by qEEG and neurofeedback?

Successful outcomes, not limited to those listed below, have been reported by neurofeedback clinicians for ADD/ADHD, Addictions, Anger, Anxiety, Autism, Chronic pain, Closed head injuries, Concentration, Depression, Headaches and Migraines, Learning Disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Pain management, Reading skills, Seizure Disorders, Sleep Disorders.

Neurofeedback has also proven effective when used for performance enhancement, such as developing memory skills, increasing concentration, and focusing skills.

How long is a qEEG and neurofeedback session?

Typically, each session takes between 45 and 60 minutes. The actual training period lasts a maximum of 30 minutes. Additional time is needed beforehand for sensor placement and adjustment. We also speak with our clients briefly before and after each training session to monitor how things are progressing. We ensure that you have enough time so you don’t feel rushed and are able to discuss the results you are experiencing.

How many sessions will I need?

Results from qEEG and neurofeedback training are seen gradually. Typically, progress can be seen within 15 sessions for most conditions. A standard treatment plan consists of between 20 and 60 sessions depending upon the conditions being addressed. However, you are unique! Your progress will depend on your specific circumstances.

How will I know if I should decrease or stop my medication?

Thrive Neurofeedback sees qEEG and neurofeedback as complementary to medications. They should not work against each other. We advise clients to remain in communication with their physicians and watch for indications of overmedication. Then your physician may advise you to reduce your medications.

Do I stop taking medications during qEEG and neurofeedback?

There may be a time during which we want to get a baseline score or conduct a brain map without medication. We will do this only with your physician’s knowledge and approval. We never suggest that a person stop any medication taken for physical conditions such as heart problems, seizure disorders, or blood pressure. Any changes to your medication must be made under your medical doctor’s supervision.

Will I be able to stop taking medications?

Initially, neurofeedback supports medication dosages, and out clients tend to feel better while on their current doses. As brain training progresses and improvement is noted, we refer you to your physician to discuss any changes in medication and dosage. Many clients are able to reduce their doses. If your objective is to stop taking medications, you should plan on a greater number of neurofeedback sessions.