Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback.  The body has a limited capacity to sense information coming from inside itself.  However, if you monitor any biological process, amplify it, and feed it back to the brain, your brain can change it.   As an example, if your place a special skin thermometer on your finger, you can raise or lower its temperature at will just by focusing on the gauge.  Neurofeedback is the monitoring of brain waves with the goal of changing the patterns that cause problems. It is the modern application of the EEG (electroencephalogram) machine.

Q: Why kind of success rate have you had?

In general, my success rate is high.  It depends a lot on what the symptoms are being targeted.  It is rather routine to have clients reduce depression and anxiety rather quickly.  For conditions like essential tremor, I have had limited success.  Neurofeedback does not resolve all conditions that people have, and, there are those who simply do not respond.  I do have samples of testimonials from my practice that you can read.  You will find more at www.danstaso.com.

 Q: How does the training work? 

I place three noninvasive, completely painless sensors on your scalp.  These wires are connected to a computer, which translates the signals into a visible pattern on the monitor.  Your brain receives feedback every times it moves towards increased balance.  The feedback can be in the form of sound, music, a game, or a video . I use different sensors placements on your scalp depending on the nature of the problem. 

Q:  Could you explain more about brainwaves?

Your brain produces four distinct types of brain waves, which are labeled in Greek letters. People usually have a mixture of frequencies at any given time, but the dominant frequency varies depending on the state of consciousness and on individual differences.   Beta is considered to be the fast waves, measuring 15 Hertz and above.  Alpha is 8-12 Hertz.  Theta is 4-7 Hertz.  Delta is 0.5-3.5 Hertz.  Normal focused waking state consists of primarily Beta waves in the brain.  When you close your eyes and relax, Alpha tends to be produced.  Theta normally is only produced briefly when you are starting to fall asleep.  Delta is normally produced when you are asleep. 

Q: How long does the training take? 

Sessions are usually one to three times per week, but each person is different.  Most notice some improvement within the first three sessions, however, its recommended to have at least 20 visits. The total number depends on the type of problem, the age of the person, and many other factors.  Typically ADD requires about 20-45 sessions.  Application for alcoholism takes 30 to 40 sessions.  

Q:  How can I expect to feel after a session? 

You may feel a little tired, as if you worked hard, or sleepy and a little spacey during a session. This is natural, as you are doing the equivalent of aerobic training or weight-lifting with your brain.  However, most of my clients notice an increase in energy levels and clarity of thought within a few minutes after they leave. 

Q: Will the training last, or is it temporary?

The type of neurofeedback training we offer here is permanent.   Neurofeedback helps to improve functions such as concentration, short-term memory, speech, motor skills, sleep, energy level, and emotional balance. The results of the training are permanent unless another trauma or injury occurs. 

Q  Can neurofeedback help with ADD and ADHD?

Recent research suggests that individuals with ADD/ADHD tend to have elevated theta brainwave activity and low levels of beta brainwave activity. Symptoms of ADD/ADHD are usually reduced when brainwave activity is changed. Neurofeedback is commonly used as an adjunct or alternative treatment to medication and behavior management. 

Most adults and children who have ADD/ADHD report improvement in the areas of 1) school and job performance due to an increased ability to focus, pay attention, and concentrate and 2) social relationships due to an increased ability to demonstrate self-control. 

 Q: Is there anything you can suggest for me to do so that I improve my training sessions? 

Yes, eat a high-protein, low-sugar diet.  Do light exercise, walk, or swim as often as possible.  You should drink 8-10 glasses of water daily.  You should get plenty of sleep, especially just before and just after your session. If possible, avoid all refined sugars and aspartame. If you like red meat, eat lean meat. If you are a vegetarian, include whole proteins in your diet. Take nutritional supplements to maintain a healthy body and brain.

Q: If I am on prescription drugs, can I stop taking them? 

Your physician is the only one who can advise you to reduce, increase, or eliminate dosages for you. Never attempt to change your prescription without medical advice.  It’s important that you notify your physician you are receiving EEG Neurofeedback. Children with ADD and adults with genetic unipolar depressions are often able to gradually decrease or even discontinue their medication.  Keep in contact with your physician.

Q: What if I am taking medications?

Most medications do not interfere with getting results with EEG neurofeedback.  The exceptions are benzodiazepines and muscle analgesics. 

Q: How much does this training cost? 

The fee for the initial 60-minute evaluation is $155.   This includes an intake screening to get a history of your symptoms and how they adversely affect your life.  I ask about your medical and family history.  Each follow-up treatment session is $130 per 50-minute session (actual time on the EEG is 30 minutes).. 

Q:  Is this treatment covered by insurance?

Very often your medical insurance will reimburse you for most of the cost of treatment.  You will need to have your primary treating physician write "neurofeedback evaluation and treatment" on a prescription pad.  You pay me directly.  I give you a bill and you submit it to your medical insurance carrier.  Many clients have reported being reimbursed for much of the cost. 

Also, as an alternative, Dr. Staso is a contracted provider for most managed care companies.  However, there are more restrictions placed.  The initial evaluation is conducted in two visits instead of one.  Managed care has its own forms that they require.  There is typically a co-pay ranging from $5 to $30.  Managed care may or may not cover this specialty type of treatment, and may only authorize 10 sessions while 20 or more may be needed.  Please speak to Dr. Staso about more details.

Q:  Where can I find research on Neurofeedback?

Corydon Hammond, PhD, has provided a lengthly bibliography of research articles covering topics of headache, depression, attention deficit disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, sleep disorders, addictions, head injury, stroke, coma, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and epilepsy.

Q: Do I need to worry about this equipment doing something to me?

No, the equipment does not send any electricity into you or in any other way do anything to you. It works like a mirror, showing you how your brain is functioning, and telling you if you are on the right track. 

Q:  Are there any other terms for Neurofeedback? 

Yes, it is also called Neurotherapy, EEG Biofeedback and Brainwave Biofeedback.