Frequently Asked Questions About Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback is a big topic, and if you're just getting started, it's normal to have questions. Below, we've answered the questions we hear most often, from how the process works to what it costs and how to get started. If you don't see your question here, our team at both our Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach offices is happy to walk you through it.
Basics of Brain Training
Start here if you're new to Neurofeedback and want to understand what it is, how it compares to other approaches, and what the research says.
Neurofeedback, also called EEG Biofeedback, is a non-invasive form of brain training. Small sensors are placed on your scalp to read your brainwave activity in real time. That information is fed back to you through a screen or sound, and over repeated sessions, your brain learns to shift toward healthier patterns on its own. Nothing is inserted into the brain, and nothing is done to it. The process simply gives your brain information it can use to retrain itself.
Neurofeedback and Neurotherapy are broad umbrella terms. Neurofeedback refers to any type of brain Biofeedback, including HEG (blood flow), and fMRI and MEG (electromagnetic waves). EEG (electroencephalography) Biofeedback refers just to brainwave Biofeedback, and this is what Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback uses. EEG is the recording of brainwave activity, and the feedback provided is responding to your second-to-second EEG read and training your brain based on your individual evaluation.
Yes. Neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback) has been studied for decades and is used by clinicians, researchers, and performance specialists to help the brain build healthier patterns. As with any wellness approach, results vary by individual, and it works best as part of an evaluation process tailored to your specific symptoms and goals.
You may be a good candidate if any of the following experiences are true for you: you are not satisfied with the results of medication alone or do not like the side effects or potential side effects of medication; you know that you want something more out of life but can't seem to stay on track due to negative self-talk, fear, or anxiety; you wake up with negative emotions; you have problems with focus, attention, or impulsivity; you have suffered a concussion; you have issues with sleep or fatigue; you suffer frequent migraines or headaches; you have suffered a trauma that keeps playing over and over in your head or interferes with life in other ways; you have frequent nightmares, night terrors, or negative dreams; and you are willing to commit to at least two EEG Biofeedback sessions per week for 20 sessions.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a talk-therapy technique that helps process specific traumatic memories through guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. Neurofeedback works differently. Rather than focusing on a specific memory or event, it trains your brainwave patterns more broadly, which can support regulation of mood, focus, sleep, and stress responses over time. The two approaches aren't competing; many people benefit from combining them.
TMS uses magnetic pulses directed at a specific area of the brain, typically administered in a clinical setting under a psychiatrist's supervision. Neurofeedback takes a different approach. Rather than stimulating the brain externally, it trains your brain to self-regulate by giving it real-time feedback on its own activity, built around an individualized, symptom-based evaluation. If you're weighing your options, we're happy to talk through which approach might make sense for your situation.
Every brain responds differently, so results vary, but many clients begin noticing changes within the first 5–8 sessions, and most see meaningful movement toward their goals within the recommended 20–30 session range. Because Neurofeedback is built around your individual evaluation and goals rather than a one-size-fits-all protocol, the best way to know what to expect for your specific situation is a conversation with our team.
No. Absolutely nothing goes into the brain. Sensors are put on the scalp to pick up the electrical activity coming from your brain. This gives the software real-time updates on how you are responding.
Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback does not “scan your brain” or provide a “map” of your brain. There is no single signature brainwave associated with issues. As with many other health markers, even when brainwaves are in a “normal range,” there can be clear patterns in a person's life that something is amiss. For example, suboptimal performance in an athletic competition could be caused by inattentiveness (theta brainwave) or negative self-talk (alpha brainwave). The brain is a complex system; it is best to track clusters of symptoms to the root of an issue. This is why Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback uses a symptom-based assessment tool to develop individualized protocols. An athlete, for example, is generally well aware of the surface cause of their performance impediments, whether it be a lack of focus or negative self-talk; however, the root cause may not be revealed in their EEG.
What to Expect at Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback
Curious what an actual appointment looks like? Here's what to expect, from your first evaluation through ongoing sessions.
Your first session will be an evaluation lasting about two hours. We will ask you approximately 180 questions to determine what protocols are needed for your individual goals and to establish baselines for numerous symptoms to help track your progress. We will also work with you to determine measurable growth areas that will be markers for your progress.
After this, we will schedule you for a minimum of two appointments a week to run the protocols that we have developed for you. These sessions take 45 minutes to an hour. In each, you will first be asked specific questions to assess any symptom changes since your last session. Then, EEG sensors will be attached to your scalp (this does not hurt, and nothing is going into your brain; the sensors are just reading your EEG signal). Sitting in a comfortable chair in front of a computer screen, you will simply watch the screen and/or listen to the auditory tones that are doing the training. Depending on your individualized plan, several protocols may be run in one session. This sometimes involves moving the sensors to different locations on the scalp. The entire process is very simple and undemanding for the client.
Some may see improvements in the first couple of Neurofeedback sessions. Within 5–8 sessions, most people will notice changes in their symptoms and movement toward their goals. However, to ensure lasting results it is important to continue sessions beyond this initial point. On average, 20–30 sessions are recommended, though there are more specific ways to measure whether an individual has completed a protocol.
Coverage, Benefits & Next Steps
Questions about cost, insurance, and how to book your first appointment.
Under an MD's supervision, most people can either reduce or stop using their medication after successfully completing the required number of sessions.
Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback works closely and directly with you to achieve your wellness goals. While we have a comprehensive evaluation process that allows us to focus directly on those symptoms and goals, we do not diagnose conditions or work directly with insurance providers. We invite you to contact us at either office location to discuss your individual circumstances.
Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback is a private-pay wellness program. We accept HSA and FSA funds, and offer 0% interest financing along with packages designed for individuals and families. Contact us at either office location to find the option that works best for you.
To get started, fill out the form on our Schedule a Consultation page, or call our Pensacola or Fort Walton Beach office. We offer a complimentary phone consultation to answer any questions you may have, and we can schedule your first session at the same time.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Reach out to our Pensacola or Fort Walton Beach offices. We're happy to help.
I reached a point where I knew enough was enough. After enduring significant trauma throughout my life, both in childhood and adulthood, I desperately needed a change. Reaching out to Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback was the best decision I could have made. The results have been nothing short of life-altering. Neurofeedback at Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback has made my anxiety, mood swings, and trauma triggers remarkably manageable. I can now fall asleep peacefully at night without the torment of spiraling thoughts.
— Lori G., Pensacola
I have only completed about 8 Neurofeedback sessions under Pam's direction, and my brain has already made wonderful strides in the lacking areas of my mind that I suffered — anxiety and depression. From the onset, I was quite skeptical about this process, doubtful of feeling any benefits from it, if any, would be minimal, if at all. I was so wrong, it WORKS! Do not hesitate.
— Susan B.
I took my 3.5 year old and had no idea what to expect. He had behavior issues that were not just normal tantrums and we were at our wits end. It took some time and a switch in protocols, but he is a different child. The last 2 months have been the best months we've ever had with him. He is sweet, bubbly, manages his emotions, and is the most amazing kid. His teachers have noticed a huge change. It's really been life changing.
— Molly K., parent of a 3-year-old
It was a fantastic experience. I did the full 20 sessions and thought it was definitely worth my time because each time I did it I could see results. I primarily went in for my back pain to manage it — I'm able to manage the pain better now, but there are a lot of the other attributes going through this program that helped me in a lot of different ways. As a pilot or somebody in a fast-pace environment this can only be another attribute in your performance. I would highly recommend it.
— Andrew P., pilot
The team at Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback, including Pamela and Megan, provides outstanding care. They are my go-to resource for anyone seeking help in the Florida Panhandle. By staying up-to-date with the latest information, they ensure their clients receive respected, high-quality service. For a life-changing experience, reach out to Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback to set up an appointment."
— Dr. Curtis Schindeler, Center for Integrated Therapies, Sarasota, FL