Frequently Asked Questions About NeurOptimal and Our Services
Frequently Asked Questions
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Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback (EEG biofeedback).
Neurofeedback machines respond to a user’s brain activity by mirroring it back to the central nervous system (CNS) via a pattern of auditory signals. When the CNS receives this information, it then decides whether to continue operating in the same way or to operate in a more efficient manner.
Over time, through repeated training sessions, the CNS tends to opt to run more efficiently. This results in increased self-regulation of the brain and helps it run optimally. Many people who experience anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD, and chronic stress find long-term total relief or significant relief from their symptoms after training with neurofeedback.
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The first generation of neurofeedback machines incorporated linear or protocol-based feedback, which required a user to complete a brain map (QEEG test) prior to sessions in order to identify the issue or area of the brain that was to be targeted. While somewhat effective, an expert trainer was also needed in order to monitor and administer the feedback during a session and only one area of the brain could be trained at a time.
Dynamical neurofeedback (NeurOptimal neurofeedback) is the newest generation of neurofeedback technology. It is able to incorporate brain map functioning into the system due to advancements in computer processing speeds and does not require a QEEG test or an expert trainer to administer a session. Additionally, NeurOptimal dynamical neurofeedback software monitors the largest range of brainwave frequencies (past 60 Hz) compared with other systems. Because the NeurOptimal® dynamical system trains the brain as a whole, rather than targeting specific areas, improvements in many areas/functions are generally experienced by users.
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Anyone who is experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic stress, overstimulation, brain fog, chronic fatigue, and/or sleeplessness (insonmia) will likely find significant long-term relief by using a neurofeedback system.
NeurOptimal’s dynamical neurofeedback will benefit those who are seeking to optimize their mind’s performance. It is non-invasive and safe for children and adults alike. Adults with chronic conditions, children with learning challenges, busy professionals, students, academics, and trauma survivors are some of the groups of people that are seeing amazing results from training with NeurOptimal neurofeedback.
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A neurofeedback session is an approximately thirty-three minute period of training with the NeurOptimal machine.
During a session, one attaches clips to the ears and two sensors to the scalp. These pick up the intricate electrical activity of the brain to be read by NeurOptimal’s state-of-the-art software. While that happens, the user is free to relax and listen to music accompanied by visual effects or to watch a movie.
When the software detects instability in the brain signals, the song or movie briefly pauses. The pauses are feedback, which over time teach the brain to organize itself more efficiently and perform optimally.
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Yes. The NeurOptimal® neurofeedback system is FDA-approved for use by everyone, including children, and is considered side-effect free.
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Yes! We encourage families to train with neurofeedback together. When they do, the positive effects can be much stronger.
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No! We include everything your family needs to successfully train with the neurofeedback system. If you run out of supplies, we will happily send you more free of charge.
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Most people need between 20 and 40 sessions for their results to last long-term. That being said, some people need less sessions and some people need more than 40 sessions. You will know when the results are sticking when you feel consistently better from symptoms.
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It is safe for each family member to do up to two neurofeedback sessions per day.
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A session lasts 33 minutes. During a session, you relax while the system reads your brain activity via sensors and plays music back to you with an integrated feedback protocol. This is generally a very soothing experience.
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During sessions you may read a book, look at your phone, take a nap, or anything else as long as you can hear the auditory feedback from the system.
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We provide you with detailed instructions, an instructional video, and 7 days per week customer support in case you need help. Most people find the systems easy to use.
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Customers may rent systems from us either through our online storefront or by emailing us. If a system is needed for a future date, please send us a message and we will work to accommodate you.
Upon completion of your payment, we will email you a rental agreement and renter guidelines. Please read, complete, sign, and return the contract to us and make sure to thoroughly read the renter guidelines. Your order will be shipped promptly via FedEx ground service within 24 hours of receiving the signed agreement and normally arrives to you within 3-5 days, though shipping can take longer than 5 days to certain locations and in certain circumstances, such as the holiday season. We will provide you with a tracking number.
When your rental period is over, simply repackage the system the same way you received it and drop it off to FedEx. We provide you with a pre-paid shipping label. FedEx also offers free package pick-up from your home, which you may use for your convenience.