Frequently Asked Questions About Neurofeedback

1. What is Neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive brain training technique that helps the brain learn to self-regulate by providing real-time feedback on brainwave activity. It’s a form of biofeedback that allows your brain to recognize and adjust inefficient patterns, leading to improvements in areas like focus, stress management, emotional resilience, and sleep quality.

2. How does Neurofeedback work?

Neurofeedback works by monitoring brainwave activity through small EEG sensors placed on the scalp. These sensors detect the brain’s electrical signals and translate them into visual and auditory feedback. For example, if your brain is in an optimal state, you might hear a pleasant sound or see a clearer image on the screen. If your brainwave activity becomes less balanced, the feedback changes, subtly guiding your brain toward more stable and efficient patterns over time.

3. What conditions can Neurofeedback help with?

Neurofeedback is used to support a wide range of cognitive and emotional concerns, including:

Anxiety & Stress: Helps the brain shift out of high-alert states and into calm regulation.
ADHD & Focus Issues: Improves attention, impulse control, and mental clarity.
Depression: Encourages healthier mood regulation patterns.
PTSD & Trauma: Helps the nervous system process and regulate emotional responses.
Sleep Disorders: Trains the brain to move more easily into restful sleep states.
Migraines & Chronic Pain: Assists in reducing pain perception and improving relaxation.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & Concussions: Aids brain recovery and neuroplasticity.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Can improve emotional regulation and sensory processing.

While Neurofeedback is not a cure, it can significantly improve quality of life by training the brain to function more efficiently.

4. What happens during a Neurofeedback session?

A session is a relaxing and interactive experience. You’ll sit in a comfortable chair while sensors are placed on your scalp to monitor your brain’s electrical activity. You’ll then watch a screen that displays images or patterns, or listen to sounds that shift in response to your brainwave activity. No conscious effort is required—your brain automatically responds to the feedback, learning over time to adjust its patterns for better performance. Sessions typically last 30-45 minutes.

5. What is the assessment process like?

Your first visit will include a comprehensive assessment using a proprietary BrainPaint questionnaire to determine the best Neurofeedback protocol for you. This in-depth questionnaire helps identify brainwave imbalances and areas for improvement. You’ll also work with your clinician to set clear, measurable goals, such as:

"I want to fall asleep within 20 minutes instead of taking hours to do so."
"I want to reduce my anxiety so I only feel overwhelmed once a week instead of daily."
"I want to improve focus so I can complete tasks without getting distracted every 10 minutes."

By defining your goals in a quantifiable way, we can track progress throughout your sessions.

6. How many sessions will I need?

Most people benefit from 20-40 sessions, with a recommended frequency of two sessions per week for the best results. Some clients begin noticing changes within 5-8 sessions, but longer-term results typically require more consistency. The brain learns best through repetition, just like building a new habit or skill.

For the fastest results most clients train twice per week, although some benefit from more frequent sessions, and although it takes longer to see improvement some Clients train once a week.

The training structure is as follows:

Session RangeExpected Experience & Progress

Sessions 1-5 The brain begins adjusting to the feedback. Clients may feel more aware of symptoms initially.

Sessions 6-10 Early signs of improvement appear. Clients may notice better sleep, focus, or mood regulation.

Sessions 11-20 More noticeable and consistent benefits. The brain is learning to self-regulate more efficiently.

Sessions 21-40 Long-term changes become solidified. Some clients complete training here, while others continue for deeper improvements.

7. What is a double session, and why do you offer it?

A double session consists of two back-to-back Neurofeedback sessions, allowing you to receive the benefits of twice-weekly training in a single visit. We offer this option because we know not everyone can commit to coming in multiple days a week. While two separate sessions per week are ideal, double sessions can still be effective for those with busy schedules.

8. Will I feel anything during or after a session?

Neurofeedback does not involve electrical stimulation—it simply monitors your brainwaves. However, some clients report feeling:

A deep sense of relaxation or calm
More focused and mentally clear
A slight tiredness, similar to after a workout
Subtle emotional shifts, like feeling lighter or less reactive

For some, changes are immediate, while others notice gradual improvements over several sessions.

9. How long do the effects of Neurofeedback last?

The benefits of Neurofeedback are often long-lasting because the brain is learning new, more efficient patterns. Much like learning to ride a bike, once your brain develops these new patterns, they tend to stick. Some clients choose to do occasional “tune-up” sessions if they experience stress or life changes that throw them off balance.

10. Can I use Neurofeedback with other treatments?

Yes! Neurofeedback works well alongside therapy, medication, mindfulness practices, and holistic treatments. It is not a replacement for medical care but serves as a powerful complementary tool for emotional and cognitive well-being.

11. Is Neurofeedback safe?

Yes, Neurofeedback is completely safe and non-invasive. It does not force the brain into any state or use electrical stimulation. Instead, it guides your brain toward balance through its own learning process.

12. Is Neurofeedback covered by insurance?

Insurance coverage varies. Some HSA (Health Savings Accounts) or FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts) may reimburse Neurofeedback services. It’s best to check with your provider. Vibe Neurofeedback does not currently bill insurance, we can accept HSA, and FSA cards, and are happy to give you an invoice for your insurance.

13. What are brainwaves, and why do they matter?

Brainwaves are electrical impulses in the brain that regulate how we think, feel, and function. Different brainwave frequencies are associated with different states of consciousness:

Delta (0.5-4 Hz) – Deep sleep, healing, restoration
Theta (4-8 Hz) – Creativity, deep relaxation, memory processing
Alpha (8-12 Hz) – Calm, alert relaxation, flow states
Beta (12-30 Hz) – Active thinking, problem-solving, focus
Gamma (30-100 Hz) – High-level cognition, insight, peak mental performance

Neurofeedback helps balance these brainwave patterns, leading to better emotional regulation and cognitive function.

14. How does Neurofeedback target specific brainwaves?

BrainPaint’s proprietary system customizes your sessions based on the initial assessment. If you need better focus, the system may encourage more Beta waves. If you struggle with stress or trauma, it may promote Alpha or Theta waves. This individualized approach ensures your training is tailored to your unique needs.

15. Can Neurofeedback help with sleep?

Yes! Many sleep disorders are linked to dysregulated brainwaves. Neurofeedback can train the brain to transition more smoothly between wakefulness and deep sleep, reducing insomnia, restless sleep, and frequent waking.

16. Is Neurofeedback effective for children?

Yes! Neurofeedback is safe and effective for kids, especially those with ADHD, anxiety, or sensory processing difficulties. It helps improve focus, emotional regulation, and self-control without medication.

17. Can Neurofeedback improve athletic or creative performance?

Absolutely! Many professional athletes, musicians, and performers use Neurofeedback to enter “flow states,” where focus and performance are optimized. It enhances mental clarity, reaction time, and stress resilience.

18. Does Neurofeedback work for everyone?

While most people experience positive changes, results vary. Factors such as consistency, individual brain chemistry, and overall lifestyle all play a role in success.

19. Are there any side effects?

Most people do not experience negative side effects, but some may temporarily feel:

Mild fatigue
Increased dreams
Emotional processing (feeling more aware of certain emotions)

These effects typically subside as your brain adjusts.

20. How do I get started?

Getting started is simple! Schedule an initial assessment, where we’ll discuss your goals and complete a proprietary BrainPaint questionnaire to customize your sessions. From there, we’ll create a personalized plan to support your journey toward greater mental balance.

Still have questions? I’d love to chat—reach out anytime! 😊