LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System)

What is LENS?

LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) is a gentle form of neurofeedback. Sensors placed on the scalp read your brain's electrical activity, and the system sends back a very faint signal, far weaker than a cell phone's. The goal is to help the brain shift out of patterns it has gotten "stuck" in and become more flexible and regulated.

How is LENS different from traditional neurofeedback?

Traditional neurofeedback usually asks you to watch a screen or play a game while your brain learns from the feedback. LENS is passive. You simply sit quietly, usually with your eyes closed, and no effort or concentration is required. This makes it a good fit for people who have trouble sitting through longer sessions.

What does a session feel like?

Most people feel very little during the session itself. Afterward, clients often describe feeling calmer, clearer, or more relaxed. Some notice nothing right away and see changes over the following days.

What might LENS help with?

People seek LENS for concerns such as anxiety, stress, low mood, sleep difficulties, trouble focusing, and the lingering effects of trauma or head injury. Research on LENS is still developing, and results vary from person to person. We'll talk with you about whether it's a good fit for your goals.

How long is a session, and how many will I need?

Appointments last about 45 minutes, though the actual feedback takes only seconds. The number of sessions varies. Many people notice changes within the first few sessions, and a typical course is 8-12 sessions. We'll review your progress regularly and adjust as we go.

Are there side effects?

LENS is generally well tolerated. Some people notice temporary tiredness, mild headache, or feeling "off" after a session. These effects usually pass quickly. Let your technician know, because they tell us how to adjust your next session.

Is there an age limit to LENS?
LENS can be used with both children and adults. At our practice, we offer LENS to clients ages five and up. Because sessions are short and require no effort, LENS can work well for young clients and for anyone who has trouble sitting still or concentrating. Clients under 18 need a parent or guardian's consent, and parents are required to attend appointments. 

Can I do LENS alongside counseling?

Yes. Many clients use LENS together with therapy. Some find that it makes it easier to engage in the work they're doing in counseling.

Who provides LENS at Life Worth Living Counseling?

LENS sessions are provided by Martha Renea McGuire (she goes by Renea), our trained LENS technician.

Does insurance cover LENS?

Unfortunately LENS is not a service that is reimbursed by insurance companies, though you may still be able to use your HSA/FSA funds. Please reach out to your HSA/FSA administrator to find out if you can use your funds to pay for LENS. LENS is offered on a private-pay basis only, and we do not bill insurance for these sessions. The fee is $160 for the intake appointment and $125 per follow-up session. Payment is due on the date of service and we do not offer payment plans.

How do I get started?

Contact us at info@lifeworthlivingcounseling.com to schedule an initial appointment. We'll go over your history and goals, explain what to expect, and answer any questions before your first session.