Frequently Asked Questions 

LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a gentle form of neurofeedback, sometimes called neurotherapy. It uses a very low-level signal, guided by your own brainwave activity, with the goal of helping the nervous system move out of stuck patterns.

LENS is one type of neurofeedback. "Neurofeedback" is a broad term for approaches that use real-time brainwave (EEG) information to support brain regulation. LENS differs from most other types because it is passive and much shorter.

Traditional neurofeedback usually involves active training: watching a screen or playing a game while the brain learns from visual or audio feedback over longer sessions. With LENS, you simply rest while a brief, low-level signal is delivered. Clients and practitioners often describe it as a gentler experience, though individual responses vary.

No. There are no games, screens, or tasks. You sit comfortably and rest. This can make LENS a good fit for children and for people who find it hard to concentrate or sit still for long periods.

Sensors read your brainwave activity, and a tiny signal based on that activity is briefly returned to the brain. The feedback is individualized to your own brain activity, and no active effort is needed during a session.

You'll sit comfortably while sensors measure your brain activity. That activity is then briefly mirrored back as a gentle signal lasting only seconds. We may move the sensors to a different site and repeat the process. The number of sites depends on how you respond.

Sessions at Stillwater typically last 45 to 60 minutes, including check-in and conversation. The signal itself is delivered for only a few seconds at a time.

Most people don't feel anything during a session. We attach small sensors to your scalp and earlobes, and the signal is too low to perceive. Some people notice a sense of calm, clarity, or mild tiredness during or after the session.

Yes. Because LENS is passive and brief, it can be a comfortable option for children. Families often come to us for concerns such as attention, anxiety, and emotional regulation. We always talk with parents first about goals and whether LENS is a good fit.

LENS is noninvasive, and the signal is extremely weak, far weaker than a cell phone's emission. The LENS system is an FDA-registered Class II biofeedback device and has been in clinical use for over thirty years, with serious adverse effects rarely reported. We screen every client and discuss health history before starting.

We use the LENS system, an FDA-registered Class II biofeedback devicefirst introduced in 1990. The equipment is a tool for supporting the brain's own self-regulation, and it has been used in clinical settings for over thirty years.

Side effects are uncommon and usually mild and temporary. Some people notice fatigue, feeling a bit wired, vivid dreams, or emotional release. People with migraines, tics, seizures, anxiety, or trauma-related concerns may occasionally notice symptoms feel stronger for a short time. Let us know about any changes so we can adjust your sessions.

Every person is different. Sessions are usually weekly, and a typical course is about 6 to 15 sessions. The developer of LENS reports an average of about 11 sessions across its client data. Your plan is based on your goals and how you respond.

A single session is $220, with a discounted package of six ($1,200). The first 20-minute consultation is free. See our Services page for details.

People seek LENS for a range of concerns, including anxiety, sleep difficulties, focus and attention, mood, traumatic stress, brain fog, post-concussion symptoms, migraines, and burnout. Individual experiences vary.

LENS is an established neurofeedback approach that has been used in clinical settings for decades. We combine the approach with individualized care and a whole-person perspective. People's experiences vary, and we're happy to talk through your questions and goals in a complimentary consultation. You can browse published studies, videos, and personal accounts on our Resources page.

Many clients do LENS while in therapy or taking medication. If you take medication or are receiving treatment, please discuss your plans with your prescribing or treating clinician. Neurofeedback should never be a reason to change or stop medication without guidance from the clinician who prescribed it.

This varies from person to person. Many clients report that changes last well after their sessions end, and some schedule occasional tune-up sessions during times of stress or transition.

Changes can be subtle at first; better sleep, calmer moods, or clearer thinking, for example. We check in at each session and track how you're doing.

Everyone responds differently. Some people notice shifts early, others more gradually, and some may not notice meaningful change. We monitor progress closely, adjust your sessions as needed, and talk honestly about whether to continue.

We are a self-pay practice and do not accept insurance.

Schedule a complimentary consultation to discuss your goals and ask questions. We'll design a personalized plan and move forward at a pace that feels right for you.

We are located in Novato, California, in Marin County, and welcome clients from across the San Francisco Bay Area, including Sonoma County, Petaluma, and San Rafael. Directions, parking information, and contact details are available on our Contact page.