Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) FAQs
What is LENS?
Sometimes through emotional trauma, dietary imbalances, poor nutrition in utero, disease, or blows to the head, brain wave patterns are not efficient. This can result in emotional problems, physical problems, or just slowing down. Some of the symptoms related to inefficient brain wave activity are: sensitivity to sound or light, unexplained mood changes, explosiveness, suicidal thoughts, brain fog, confusion, problems concentrating, procrastination, problems with stamina, sleep disturbances, restlessness, irritability, day dreaming, worrying, forgetting, lack of initiative, and pain.
LENS is a safe, drug-free effective tool that helps restructure the brain so that it can once again perform optimally. Many people refer to it as “brain training.”
Can LENS help me?
Neurofeedback is not a diagnostic tool nor it is used to treat specific conditions. It has been useful in reducing or eliminating symptoms related to the following conditions however.
ADD/ADHD/Learning disorders
Anxiety/OCD/Tourettes
Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Autism/Asperger’s
Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussion/Brain Fog
Depression
Chronic Fatigue/Fibromyalgia/Migraine
Insomnia
Restoring peak performance
LENS significantly helps 75% of clients who try it. It works best on people who, at one point, were functionally normally then something happened to change them. Fortunately change is quick. If you do not notice a change within the first six sessions, it probably won’t work for you.
How does neurofeedback work?
During a training session, sensors are attached to the ears and scalp with EEG paste, which detects brain waves. It is a painless procedure and does not involve the application of any voltage or current to the brain. In fact, you probably won’t feel a single thing during the process! The sensors capture and analyze the brainwaves, and coverts them into an infinitesimal electromagnetic radio wave signal that is fed back to the brain for a fraction of a second. The radio signal interrupts dysfunctional brainwave patterns. When they re-boot, they go back to normal, healthy brainwave patterns. This allows you to feel better and function better.
Can neurofeedback cure me?
Neurofeedback is not a medical procedure or a cure for ailments. It simply enhances the stability of the brain and resulting in improved functioning and symptom reduction or elimination.
How does it result in performance enhancement?
The brain controls everything. If it is off just a little, you may experience a 5 to 10% drop in performance. In performing arts, business, and athletics, this could mean a lost role, deal, or game. LENS brings the brain back up to it’s potential. It can’t give you more than what your DNA says you are capable of, but if your timing, eye/hand coordination, and concentration are better, wouldn’t your performance also improve?
How many sessions do I need?
The average training time for the simplest problems is 20 sessions. More complex problems like fibromyalgia, migraines or Autism can take up to a year. Each person is different that it is hard to tell exactly how many sessions will be needed for permanent change in the brain.
How long does it take?
The intake session is one hour. Each training session is about half an hour. The brain training itself only takes a few minutes. Most of this time is spent talking about symptoms and progress.
How frequent should sessions be?
This depends on the sensitivity of the client, availability, and financial situation. Most clients train once a week, but those who want faster results and can handle the stimulation can go faster. If your schedule or finances won’t allow that frequency of training, you can still benefit.
Are the results permanent?
Yes. If clients train long enough (the average for easy problems is 20 sessions) and the brain learns a new way of functioning, the change is permanent. In some cases clients have seen a drop off in results over time. A booster or two will correct this.
Is it safe?
LENS has been around since 1992. Over 500 practitioners have used it with over 75,000 clients. There has never been a reported case of enduring negative effects. If overstimulated clients can experience a temporary increase of symptoms they already have, but LENS will not produce new, unpleasant symptoms. Prior to training, each client fills out a questionnaire that helps to avoid over-stimulation. Ongoing evaluation always occurs as well. Additionally, the FDA has approved it as a 510K-exempt medical device. It was cleared as a biofeedback device for the intended purpose of relaxation and self-regulation.
Is there a way to get better, faster results?
I don’t know if research substantiates this, but it’s been my experience that people with a healthy lifestyle get better, faster results. (Seems to make sense, doesn’t it?) My recommendation is to establish a sleep routine where you go to bed and wake at the same time every day. Get 8 hours of sleep. Exercise moderately and regularly. Eat regular, healthy meals. Eliminate or reduce sugar, caffeine, processed foods, fast foods, and alcohol.
Can I do LENS if I am in therapy with someone else?
Absolutely! It generally makes therapy more effective. If you are in therapy in the Richmond, Virginia area and want to add LENS to the treatment you are already receiving, this would be a fabulous idea.
How much does neurofeedback cost?
Each session, including the intake, is $125. Cash, checks, and credit cards via Paypal are accepted. Few insurance companies offer coverage for neurofeedback, however each insurance carrier and plan is different. Please contact your insurance company directly to find out.
How is LENS different from other neurofeedback?
Unlike other forms of neurofeedback, LENS is completely passive. You don’t have to “do” anything in order for it to work. (This can be a huge bonus when dealing with children who don’t want to cooperate). The signal does all the work.