Most people have never seen neurofeedback equipment before. "Brain training using real-time feedback" doesn't tell you much about what actually happens in the room. Here's exactly what your first session at NeuroNook looks like.
Before you arrive
You don't need to do anything special to prepare. Come as you are. You'll be seated in a comfortable chair for all of the session. If you're sensitive to caffeine, it's worth spacing it out that day, but it's not required. Your first visit will be about 20 minutes.
The sensors
Small sensors are placed on the scalp and earlobes to read brain activity. They don't hurt. They don't deliver electricity or signals into your brain — they only listen. Any residue from the sensors is wiped clean at the end of the session.
What happens during the session
Once the sensors are in place you'll choose a show from our curated list and watch it on the TV screen. The screen responds in real time to your brain's activity.
When your brain produces the patterns we're training toward, the screen plays clearly and the image brightens. When your brain drifts, the screen dims slightly. That's the feedback. Your brain figures out how to get the reward of a clear, bright screen and starts adjusting — all without you having to consciously do anything.
Most people describe it as relaxing. Some feel a little tired afterward but most don't. A few notice increased mental clarity in the hours that follow. Everyone responds a little differently in the early sessions.
After the session
You go about your day as normal. There are no side effects or reasons to be delayed. We'll check in with you over the next 24 hours to see how you're feeling and if you have any questions.
A note on timeline
Neurofeedback is not a one-session fix. Most people see meaningful changes between 12 and 20 sessions depending on the goal. After 20 sessions we remap to determine the right course of trainings. We never rely solely on symptoms — we want to see what the brain is actually doing and let it guide our steps.
Most clients take between 30 and 40 sessions to reach the end of their training.
At-home training kits are also available. Learn more about at-home neurofeedback or ask us if you're interested.
Jamie Walker, MSC is the director of NeuroNook at The Loft and is completing her board certification in neurofeedback.
The Loft is a therapy and brain-based care practice in Charlotte, NC. Learn more about neurofeedback at NeuroNook.
Neurofeedback is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a licensed medical provider. Results vary.