About
What Is Ochs LENS Neurofeedback?
Developed in 1990 by Dr. Len Ochs, Ph.D., the Low Energy Neurofeedback System (LENS) is a unique form of "brain optimization" that is both effective and efficient. Unlike traditional neurofeedback, which requires conscious effort and active participation from the client, LENS is a passive process. There's nothing to "do" or learn during a session. This makes it a great option for people who have trouble sitting still or focusing for long periods.
With a success rate of over 85%, clients often report feeling positive changes as early as their first session, with results that are both rapid and lasting.
How Does LENS Work?
The LENS system uses sensors placed on the scalp to measure your unique and ever-changing brainwave activity. It works by identifying your brain's dominant frequency—the frequency with the highest amplitude. The system then sends a very low-energy, highly customized signal back to the brain that mirrors a subset of the brain's own information.
This gentle feedback helps the brain reorganize and create new, more efficient pathways, leading to a reduction or resolution of the symptoms that were previously interfering with your quality of life. The sessions are brief, typically lasting only 3-6 minutes, and are gentle, with most clients feeling nothing at all during the process.
What Conditions Can LENS Help With?
LENS Neurofeedback addresses a wide range of issues related to central nervous system dysfunction. It's an effective tool for improving various cognitive, emotional, and physical symptoms. The LENS system has been successfully used to help with:
Cognition: Improves memory, concentration, and mental clarity.
Mood: Helps regulate anger, sadness, and other emotional disturbances.
Anxiety: Reduces restlessness, agitation, and persistent feelings of anxiety.
Sleep: Assists with sleep disorders, including nightmares and insomnia.
Pain: Can help with brain-generated and vascular pain, such as migraines.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) & PTSD: Helps the brain recover from physical or psychological trauma.
Developmental & Behavioral Disorders: Effective for symptoms of ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and cerebral palsy.
The LENS can be used as a primary therapy or as a complement to other treatments. It is safe and has been successfully used with clients of all ages, from young children to older adults.
How is LENS Different?
LENS stands out from other forms of neurofeedback in three key ways:
No Conscious Effort: The client does not need to actively participate or pay attention.
Short Sessions: Sessions typically last a few minutes, making it ideal for those who can't sit still for long periods.
Fewer Sessions: The average number of sessions for lasting results is around 12, which is significantly less than many traditional neurofeedback protocols.
The changes are lasting, though for progressive conditions like Parkinson's or MS, ongoing sessions may be needed to sustain improvement.
Is it a Recognized Therapy?
Yes. Ochs LENS Neurofeedback is recognized and supported by major professional organizations. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has officially included LENS as a supported neurofeedback modality for Community Care Network providers, recognizing its efficacy and safety.
Furthermore, a significant body of peer-reviewed research supports the use of LENS for various conditions. You can review the extensive bibliography of studies conducted on LENS Neurofeedback to learn more about its clinical applications.
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