Chicago Mind Solutions

Chicago area neurofeedback and eeg therapy

Home Neurofeedback FAQs

Neurofeedback FAQs

Chicago Mind Solutions offers BrainAvatar and LENS neurofeedback in Northbrook, Illinois, and Shorewood, Wisconsin. Here are answers to the questions we hear most from patients and families.

What is neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is a form of brain training. Small sensors on the scalp measure your brainwaves, and the computer gives you feedback in real time that helps your brain settle into more efficient patterns. It is drug-free, non-invasive, and similar to biofeedback, and it is often described as physical therapy for the brain. At Chicago Mind Solutions, we offer two types of neurofeedback, BrainAvatar and LENS, and the doctor will recommend the one that fits your needs. Read more about neurofeedback therapy.

What is a QEEG and why is it necessary?

A QEEG, or quantitative electroencephalogram, is also known as a brain map. You wear a cap that looks similar to a swim cap and sit in a comfortable, reclined chair for about 20 minutes while sensors record your brain’s electrical activity. There is no treatment being administered, only a reading. The map shows which of the five brainwave frequencies (delta, theta, alpha, beta, and gamma) are overactive or underactive, and where in the brain that is happening.

What is the difference between BrainAvatar and LENS?

Both are forms of neurofeedback, but the experience is different. With BrainAvatar, you sit back and watch a movie or on-screen display while sensors track your brainwaves and reward more balanced activity. With LENS, you sit still with your eyes closed while sensors measure your brainwaves and send a very small, painless signal that encourages your brain to use more optimal patterns. LENS patients also complete a short online journal after each session. The doctor will recommend the option that fits you after your intake and QEEG.

What does the first appointment include?

The first appointment is an intake with three parts. First, you meet with the doctor to talk about your symptoms, your history, and your goals. Next, the doctor performs neuropsychological testing to understand executive function and memory. Last, we perform the QEEG brain map. About a week later, you come back for a results session to go over the brain map and talk about treatment options. No diagnoses are made until testing is complete. Not sure if this is the right fit? Uncertainty is reasonable, and we are happy to offer a free 30-minute consultation with the doctor upon request.

Are there side effects to neurofeedback?

Neurofeedback is non-invasive, and most patients experience little or no adverse effects. Many find sessions relaxing and calming, and some feel more energized afterward. Some people do feel tired or wired after a session, and a mild headache that passes quickly is possible. Less often, patients notice temporary changes in mood, anxiety, or focus as the brain adjusts. Every brain reacts differently, so we increase session time gradually to catch any sensitivities early, and we adjust your training if you have a reaction. Please tell us about any neurological condition, such as epilepsy, before you begin. Read more about side effects.

How many neurofeedback sessions will I need, and how long are they?

Every brain is different, so the doctor will set your plan after the intake and QEEG results. Most patients come one to two times per week, and how often can vary with your schedule and insurance coverage. A typical course is about 40 to 60 sessions on the BrainAvatar and around 30 sessions with the LENS. Please plan for each visit to last about an hour, which gives us time for hook-up and break-down. Our clinic manager will set your regular schedule.

Does neurofeedback work? Is improvement guaranteed?

All brains are different, and neurofeedback does not work for everyone. Research on neurofeedback is also still evolving, and the evidence is stronger for some conditions than others. That is why we begin with testing and a QEEG, set clear goals with you, and check in along the way. Patients and family members can often notice changes within a reasonably short time, which helps you and the doctor decide whether to keep going.

Can neurofeedback help with ADHD?

Many families come to us for ADHD, and neurofeedback is one of the options we offer. The research is mixed. Some studies report improvement, but a large 2024 review of randomized trials that used blinded ratings did not find a clear benefit when neurofeedback was used on its own. That is why we start with neuropsychological testing and a QEEG to understand what is driving symptoms, and why the doctor may recommend neurofeedback alongside other supports, such as executive function work, therapy, or school accommodations. Testing for ADHD is available for children and adults. Read more about ADHD.

Can neurofeedback help with anxiety or depression?

Many patients come to us for anxiety or depression. Neurofeedback aims to train brainwave patterns that are linked with these conditions, and your QEEG helps the doctor see where those patterns show up. Research is still developing, so results vary. Neurofeedback is often used alongside psychotherapy, which can help support and maintain the gains. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, please call or text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. Read more about anxiety and depression.

Can neurofeedback help after a concussion or brain injury?

Neurofeedback is one option we use for people recovering from a concussion or traumatic brain injury. Your QEEG can show brainwave patterns associated with brain injury, and the doctor uses that, along with your history and testing, to decide whether neurofeedback fits your recovery. Evidence in this area is still emerging, and neurofeedback does not replace a medical evaluation. If you have recently had a head injury, please see a medical provider first. We also offer concussion baseline testing, which gives a comparison point if an injury happens later. Read more about concussions and TBI.

How is neurofeedback different from biofeedback, medication, and therapy?

Biofeedback is a broad term for training that measures the body’s functions, such as heart rate or muscle tension, and feeds that information back to you. Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that measures brain activity instead. Medication works on brain chemistry, and psychotherapy helps you build skills and work through concerns, while neurofeedback trains brainwave patterns. They are different tools, and many patients use more than one. The doctor will help you decide what fits. Read more about neurofeedback and biofeedback.

How much does neurofeedback cost, and does insurance cover it?

Chicago Mind Solutions is in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna. If your deductible has been met, you pay your copay or coinsurance for each session, plus a separate out-of-pocket fee for the QEEG. If your plan is not one of these, please call us at (847) 656-5080 or email info@chicagomindsolutions.com to discuss payment options. Coverage varies by plan, so we encourage you to check your benefits and call us with any questions.

What age range can receive neurofeedback?

For neurofeedback, we work with children ages 7 and older, teens, and adults, as long as the patient is able to sit still for the QEEG brain map and the sessions. Readiness matters more than age. If your child is younger or has a hard time sitting still, a consultation can help you decide whether now is the right time. For psychotherapy, we can work with children as young as 3.

Can I do neurofeedback while taking medication or going to therapy?

Yes. Neurofeedback may be used on its own or to complement psychotherapy and a prescribed medication regimen, and talk therapy can help support and maintain the gains made during neurofeedback. Please do not change or stop any medication without speaking with your prescriber, and let the doctor know what you are taking. In some cases, we offer counseling in combination with neurofeedback, though availability is limited. Email info@chicagomindsolutions.com to ask about availability. Read more about psychotherapy.