Frequently Asked Questions
What is LENS neurofeedback?
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LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a gentle form of neurofeedback developed by Dr. Len Ochs. It uses tiny, imperceptible signals to invite the nervous system to release stuck patterns. You don't have to do anything during a session — no games, no concentration, just rest.
How does LENS work?
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LENS helps the brain recognize where it is stuck and naturally return to balance. A tiny, noninvasive signal reflects your brainwave activity, allowing your nervous system to self-correct and restore optimal function.
Do you work with children?
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Yes. LENS is gentle and safe for children, and can be especially supportive for attention challenges, anxiety, and emotional regulation.
What happens during a session?
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You'll sit comfortably while sensors measure your brain activity. That activity is then briefly mirrored back to the brain as a gentle signal lasting only seconds. We might then move the sensors to a different site and repeat the process. The number of sites visited depends on your nervous system.
What does a session feel like?
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There is no physical sensation associated with the neurofeedback itself. We attach small sensors to your scalp and earlobes; the signal is so low you cannot perceive it. Many people start to feel relaxed and calm during the session or in the hours afterward, with deeper changes developing over time.
Will I feel anything?
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Most people do not feel anything during a session. Some notice a sense of calm, clarity, or mild tiredness afterward as the nervous system rebalances.
Is LENS safe?
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Yes. LENS is FDA-cleared and uses a signal far weaker than a cell phone's emission. It is completely noninvasive and considered safe for all ages, including children, older adults, and pets. LENS has also been in clinical use for over thirty years with an excellent safety profile.
How many sessions do people need?
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Every nervous system is unique. Most clients feel some relief after the first session, and results build over time, typically reaching their goals within 6 to 15 sessions. Out of over 1 million clients helped and tracked by Ochs Labs, the average number of sessions was 11.
What can LENS help with?
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People turn to LENS for relief from anxiety, trauma, depression, brain fog, ADHD, migraines, sleep issues, and more. Clients often come to us for anxiety, sleep difficulties, focus and attention concerns, traumatic stress, post-concussion symptoms, and chronic burnout. LENS is not a cure for any condition; it supports the nervous system's own capacity to regulate.
What's the difference between LENS and traditional neurofeedback?
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Traditional neurofeedback requires active training and visual feedback over long sessions. LENS is passive and brief: the brain subconsciously and effortlessly receives information about itself and does the adjusting, often leading to quicker, more generalized results than traditional neurofeedback.
Can I use LENS if I'm taking medication or in therapy?
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Yes. LENS complements therapy and can be used alongside most medications. As the brain becomes more stable, some clients work with their providers to safely reduce medication over time.
Are there any side effects?
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Side effects are uncommon and typically mild. Some people notice temporary fatigue, feeling a bit wired, vivid dreams, or brief emotional release, which can reflect the nervous system adjusting. In some cases, especially with migraines, tics, Tourette's, seizures, anxiety, or trauma-related patterns, symptoms can feel temporarily more noticeable before they begin to settle. This tends to be short-lived as the system recalibrates.
How long do results last?
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Once the brain finds balance, changes often last for months or even years. Some people schedule occasional tune-ups during times of stress or transition to maintain stability.
How do I know it's working?
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Improvements usually start subtly: better sleep, calmer moods, clearer thinking, or fewer headaches. Over time, these small shifts build into lasting change.
What if I don't notice changes right away?
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Everyone's nervous system responds differently. Some notice immediate shifts, while others experience gradual improvement. We monitor progress closely and adjust your sessions as needed.
Do you take insurance?
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We are a self-pay practice but can provide a superbill for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Contact your insurance provider to ask if they cover neurofeedback or biofeedback services.
How do I get started?
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Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and ask questions. We'll design a personalized plan and move forward at the pace your nervous system prefers.
Where are you located?
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We are located in Novato, California. Directions, parking information, and contact details are available on our Contact page.
