Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Brainwave Optimization work?
Brainwave Optimization is a holistic, non-invasive method during which impaired brain wave activity is identified and then restored to its optimal ability. Throughout the process, you will have the opportunity to see your brain in action, and experience your own brainwaves transformed into sounds that melodically guide your brain back to balance.
Brain State Technologies® founder, Lee Gerdes, discovered that when the brain reaches a state of homeostasis, physical and emotional issues tend to fade or disappear. To learn more about Lee and his discovery of the power of brain balancing, you may want to read his book or listen to him discuss his work.
Q: I’ve tried all kinds of medications and therapies (talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, prolonged exposure therapy)
Many who find their way to Brainwave Optimization do so after years of searching and frustration in working to overcome life challenges. The simple answer is our revolutionary system works. Regardless of the life trauma or behavioral difficulties you have endured, they have created an imprint on the brain. When we see the imprint, we are able to identify the problem and address it.
Q: But I’ve had neurofeedback and/or biofeedback. Isn’t this the same thing?
Although there are similarities in that each of these modalities deals with creating healthier brain patterns, there are significant differences.
Brainwave Optimization is a specialized and proprietary process that has been found to have measurable and relatively quick results in mitigating issues related to an imbalanced brain. Because we provide individualized training, and because Brainwave Optimization is done “in real time,” there are no off-the-shelf approaches. Your experience is uniquely geared to you and your needs.
Q: Does it work?
More than 90 percent of our clients report that Brainwave Optimization has resulted in an improved quality of life. More than 80 percent report significant improvements in their lives. Hear about results from our for just a few of the unedited testimonials offered by those who have experienced Brainwave Optimization.
With each person we have one mission: to balance and harmonize their brain. As the brain comes into balance, other issues are addressed – clients report that they feel better, sleep better, have increased clarity, enhanced intellectual and physical performance and a greater sense of happiness and hope.
Each brain is like a fingerprint, with each person responding in their own way. Due to this fact, we cannot guarantee how a person will respond or what exactly will change for them.
Q: What types of issues can be relieved with Brainwave Optimization?
Brainwave Optimization works for a wide array of individuals and issues. Some people come to us to maximize their potential – seeking clearer thinking, enhanced creativity, improved athletic/physical performance or just an overall increased sense of happiness and well-being.
Brainwave Optimization has also shown positive results with those who are challenged by learning disorders, sleep disturbances, headaches and pain. Some of the most satisfying results have been experienced by those battling some of the most life-debilitating issues like panic attacks and anxiousness, sadness, drug, alcohol, gambling and sex addictions, and traumas of varying types.
Regardless of the presenting condition, we are constantly gratified by the results our clients report. Given the nature of the technology, we cannot predict or guarantee results; nor do we diagnose, heal, treat, cure, or address specific symptoms. We see it very simply; we help the brain achieve a natural state of balance and harmony which leads to relaxation and self-regulation.
Q: Does Brainwave Optimization work for individuals of any age?
We have found Brainwave Optimization to be effective for people of nearly any age, ranging from five to 100. The sessions are pleasant and relaxing and require only the ability to remain relatively still for about an hour, so that sensors placed on the head remain secure.
Q: What happens during the actual Brainwave Optimization session?
In its simplest form, a Brainwave Optimization session feels very much like an induced state of relaxation or meditation. You will be seated in a quiet, comfortable room in an anti-gravity chair, with a brain technologist by your side. Although there are protocols during which you will be asked to remain awake, often clients are so comfortable that they may cuddle up in a blanket and fall into a pleasant and deep sleep.
Some of the training will be with active (you may be asked to read), and some will be passive (with your eyes closed), during which time the brain technologist may allow you to sleep or will direct you in a personal visualization or imaging exercise.
Most people report a highly pleasurable experience and enjoy hearing their own brainwaves transformed into relaxing sound
Q: What is the average time commitment?
Most clients initially commit to a series of 10, 90-minute sessions – what we call “an intensive.” This is the time period that we have found delivers the best results for most people. (Individuals with severe, life-debilitating or life-long issues may find that more time is required.) We find that it is important for these sessions to occur within a one- to two-week period of time, during which the client minimizes other life activities. Occasionally, a client will need to take vacation time from work or school.
Q: Do people experience any negative side effects from Brainwave Optimization?
We have not seen negative effects from Brainwave Optimization. People who experience Brainwave Optimization – and those around them — notice changes. Typically, those changes are toward more effectiveness, not less. Clients report that things like focus, memory, concentration and a sense of happiness and well-being increase. Our tools are used to help your brain restore itself to its natural and desired state of balance.
Q: Why can’t I drink while I am doing the Brainwave Optimization?
Alcohol (or illegal drugs) taken during Brainwave Optimization and within the three weeks following the completion of sessions act as a “wet blanket” on the brain. Instead of new, healthier connections being made rapidly and with ease, alcohol slows the response time. Our goal is to help you arrive at maximum effectiveness as quickly and easily as possible. That is why we work with you to minimize any activity that will hamper that progress and ask that you not ingest toxic substances during or, for a limited time, after the sessions.
Q: Should I stop taking my medication while doing sessions?
Many medications – both over-the-counter and prescription – can have an effect on mood, concentration, sleep, pain, and/or energy levels. Brainwave Optimization may facilitate improvements in these areas by helping the brain to better regulate itself.
If you are using any type of medication, please be aware that it may influence the outcome of your training. If you are taking any medication on an “as-needed” basis, you may wish to consider taking less of it during your training.
Brain State Technologies® does not make any specific recommendations about medication usage. Please direct any questions about medication usage to your health care provider.
We recommend that you share your Brainwave Optimization experience with your physician, therapist, chiropractor, massage therapist, medical spa, and/or any other alternative, medical, or therapeutic provider you may have.
In the News
Research & Proven Results
“I wanted you to know how much BST has helped me. After completing just one session I felt calmer and less stressed. Since completing 12 sessions I am able to get quality sleep, feel relaxed, and able to focus throughout the day. My sleep patterns have gone from waking up four or five times a night to one or none. There is a calmness that I feel throughout the day and the tension in my neck and shoulders have significantly decreased. I am able to complete many more tasks in a day due to being focused and organized. It has only been a week since my last session and I continue to see improvements everyday.” – R.P.