Menu
NeuroCore

NeuroCore review: Bad service 16

J
Author of the review
7:02 am EDT
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Promised NeuroFeedback Service to aid in epilepsy, ADD, Anxiety for children and adults.

Paid over $3, 000. Our experience is as follows: confidentiality compromised for us and others, first machine didn't work, second machine worked with difficulty, a copy of treatment plans were never delivered despite repeated requests, technicians only partially delivered treatment due to lack of attention and in our opinion lack of training, management and sales were dismissive and rude because of contract protection. Their contract ensures their protection whether they fulfill their obligation or not. We feel the treatment may work, but not the way they are running it. There are other companies out there. Our experience was that Hope 139, now Neurocore, exploited our situation.

Resolved

The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

16 comments
H
H
Hunton
, US
Oct 12, 2018 11:47 am EDT

Where is Dr. Royer? I don't even see his name associated with Neurocore anymore. He is the "brain" expert. Looks like another example of corporate America taking over a product and making it too big and forgetting who was the innovator. Its usually the person and the product together that makes a concept work. Although someone may have the education and knowledge on how the brain works, Dr. Royer is the extreme expert - everyone knows that! If you want the absolute best than you need to seek out Dr. Timothy Royer. He is the BRAINS (no pun intended) behind the concept. These people that are at Neurocore now are just trying to clone his concept. I completed one year of treatment with Dr. Royer using neurofeedback and biofeedback - focusing on my breathing. I am a professional and was overwhelmed by the tasks placed on me each day - I was running from one task to the another all day long and never accomplish one whole task. By participating in neurofeedback and biofeedback, I learned how to organize my tasks and push the other thoughts out of my head that kept creeping in to tempt me to work on another task. Over time, I became extremely focused and my tasks are prioritized and completed timely. As in all type of therapy, it may not be for everyone - but speaking for myself - it worked for me.

R
R
ronaro
, US
Aug 03, 2016 11:24 am EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Had listened to the Sales pitch a number of years ago and let it pass by at the time. This last September I was personally and professionally at the end of my Treatment options for significant ADD, Depression, PTSD and Anxiety. I started treatments only because my insurance would now cover most of the cost. Went into the therapy with an educated but somewhat skeptical bias. For the first 5-7 appts. there did not seem to be any variance however suddenly I found myself more relaxed both mentally and physically than I had been in many years. This was especially evidenced in my sports abilities as well as general anxiety. I found myself able to make catches with the football and baseball that I had not been able to do. Narrowed it down to my ability to focus on the ball better than ever and to not "freeze up" in the "Fight or flight" mode that had existed. Combination of these allowed me to move in and make the one-handed catches that you see by the Pro's. This was followed by more evidence in that I started to notice that I did not need my med as much ( Adderall XR - 25mg/ ea. at 2 X's per day ). Would even sometimes forget them whereas in the past I could physically feel the difference if I did not take my medication. After I had hit the end of the treatment cycle [ 40 sessions ] . The retest of my Brain showed a marked improvement which I felt as well. Felt this physically as well. ... HOWEVER, the real test came approx. 3 weeks later.. At that time, I found myself suddenly starting to feel the same level of anxiety that I had felt before although my brain seemed to function "better" ( more fluidly ) than it had in the past during anxiety episodes [ the brain would in essence shut-down in the past ]. It was a result that I, and my family could see in me physically. Came back for a retest, BUT did not give the full detail of the symptoms and current state of brain activity under which I was operating at the time. As such the test was a "Blind" test for them ( Neurocore ). The results were amazingly accurate. It showed that the right side of my Brain had rescinded almost to the level back in October ( the right side is mainly involved with Anxiety issues ). However, the left side, although had decreased, was still operating near the level at when the treatment cycle had ended. Again, because the Neurocore team did NOT know the full extent of what was going on inside, the test could not be "rigged" to suit the stated symptoms. After extensive consultation, It was determined that possible added sessions may be needed due to the severity of the original symptoms, ( at start of treatments in Oct, the Brain wave synchronization was at near "0" and running so fast as to literally be off the chart )., Compare the idea of the treatment plan to taking antibiotics. If the dose given is ALMOST enough but not quite enough to eliminate the bacteria, then that same bacteria will only come back to create more problems. However, if the dose given is fully complete to the needs of each individual ( # of sessions ) then the result stay solid and the problem will be fully cured. The same is with the Brain - only some may take more sessions than others. From my side, within 4 treatments, I could again feel the resurgence of the "calmness" and continued focus that I had just prior to my relapse. I finished out the (10) sessions and have now been on a very good path for the last 14 weeks since reaching the end of the last session. No relapse. Due to the "double-blind" nature of my experience, I am now a firm believer in the Process used by Neurocore. That being said, I also belive that improvements in their operation can be made in the scheduling and also the level of expertise from some of their Counselors. I was blessed to have been under the care of some of the more experienced members of the team and as such had a great experience that has now been couple with an outstanding result. Will be retesting in the fall time to see where I am at as well. One last note - I am down to 25% (and often am at 0% ) of my previous medication levels. Yet, I feel that I am functioning at 2x the rate of effectiveness as my "former" self. !

K
K
Katherine47
, US
Jan 12, 2016 9:24 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

It has taken 30 years for neurofeedback to become accepted b/c of its hippy-dippy reputation, as well as the personalities of its various practitioners. Luckily there is now enough real science available to make many health insurance companies PAY for this therapy (I think that says something!), unlike some of the other perhaps dubious "brain-based" training. Just as with drug therapies, it won't work for everyone (And think about chiropractic. If one views that as dangerous quackery, even though chiropractors pay WAY less in malpractice insurance, you might not be very open to any evidential complementary therapies). My very ADHD/ASperger's 9 year old was helped GREATLY by Neurocore (based in Grand Rapids, MI) a couple years ago (he's way less impulsive now). And they DO explain it, if you take the time to listen (don't ask me to remember the difference between the kinds of brain waves. I am educated enough to understand that it's not snake oil). Mildly ADD adolescent daughter also did it, discerned no benefit, but as her mother, I can say that she sleeps better, which is certainly an important component of mental and physical health. Husband found no difference (yes, after the success with son, we all went!). I had no particular diagnosable issue, but halfway through treatment I found that I felt happier, without having any particular reason to be. No drugs, or even St. John's Wort - that 's impressive to me. And back to my son: of all the therapies we have implemented (many on the advice of his specialty physician), this one had the most impact, as testified to by many outside observers. We are huge fans, and I recommend trying it to anyone with ADHD, anxiety, migraines, insomnia, depression, or on the spectrum (it was previously used by the epilepsy and autism community). My particular insurance required talking to their social worker every time - this may explain some of the differences people experience. I agree that the young technicians are not apt to appear particularly knowledgeable.

H
H
HappyGurl08
, US
Nov 17, 2015 2:32 pm EST

I have undergone the program at Neurocore, I was struggling with severe anxiety. Since completing the program I have noticed a dramatic decrease in my anxiety, not only from my day to day life, but also when there is an occasion that used to nearly break me. The most difficult part of the whole process was finding available appointments that fit into my schedule. They have expanded and they need to expand more. I told my friend about it and now she brings her two boys to help with their focus and attention issues. I would suggest calling them if you have any questions about how it works, I called and spoke to a representative for over an hour before signing up. They were patient with me and able to answer ALL of my questions. I was a little skeptical at first, but now I can feel a difference in myself.

J
J
Jane Vander Sloot
Grand Rapids, US
Jun 13, 2015 9:13 am EDT

I went to The Neurocore, with locations in Grand Rapids, Grandville, etc, after hearing a sales pitch by Dr. Royer, a few years ago. At the time, I was having sleep problems and I do have to credit him with getting me off the prescription I was on for sleep as in my opinion, it was addictive and not really helping overall.
So I started going to The Neurocore. All appointments have to be made online which is confusing and frustrating and overall, a horrible software system that creates scheduling problems. I also have to agree with the fact that they seem to hire only men and women who are college age and don't seem to really understand how everything works or why it isn't working. After going for months and spending tons of money, I saw absolutely NO progress, even though their "reports" showed my "progress". After thinking it may all be a scam, I found it to be absolutely TRUE as the whole process involves being hooked up to probes while watching a movie. Somehow, mysteriously, your brain gets "re-trained" by simply watching the movie. Well, my sleep deprivation was so bad at the time that after a few weeks, I'd actually fall asleep while "watching" the movie. Low and behold, their stats and charts still showed I was making progress! How the heck does your brain re-train itself when you're asleep and not following the protocol? HUGE SCAM. And ALWAYS be weary when they won't tell you HOW it actually works. A good doctor, therapist, etc. will always explain IN DETAIL how their process works and what to expect over time.

M
M
momj
, US
May 30, 2017 10:32 am EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I just started the program for my son. I can see already it is a waste of money. It is done by very unprofessional people. The first day there my son waited patiently as they tried to get the machine to work. I am trying to stay hopeful, but I don't think we are going to see any results from it. We are in Florida.

S
S
Share info with facts!
Farmington Hills, US
Apr 22, 2015 1:04 pm EDT

This is frustrating. I would love to see an additional comment from Jackie or Organic Fan. I too am looking into neurocore for my 10yr son who we have had 3yrs of trying everything (ADD meds, behavior plans using reward/consequence, psychotherapy, social groups, full evaluation costing $4k) and while some of the things we have tried have helped a little or for a short time, none of them have produced a consistent result. We were recommended to neurocore by two different families whose kids after neurocore progrAm had significant results including ADD meds reduced to 1/4 of what they were taking prior. We also had a referral from our sons coach who did the program himself also with terrific results. My frustration is that those that felt strongly about complaining are not responding back with more detail for the rest of us that this program could be a real positive for if their experience was possibly an isolated occurrence or mishap maybe due to a bad employee that may no longer even be with the company any longer. In regards to the organic fans comment regarding the gel they use being toxic. Is there anyone out there that confirm or qualify that these substance are a significant risk in this application. I'm sure they are what organic fan noted but like the use of X-Rays, which are dangerous, a health risk, over constant or prolonged exposure ; they (X-rays) are of very small risk in the most people in normal use like X-rays taken when you break a bone. The smaller risk is worth the result. Is there any issue with the substances used at neurocore when the exposure frequency and procedure is considered or is it a standard substance used for EEGs, etc. ?

S
S
Suzette @ Neurocore, Marketing
Grandville, US
Jul 08, 2013 8:39 am EDT

At Neurocore it is our policy to treat all individuals with dignity and respect. We will not discriminate in the hiring, promotion, or transferring of employees on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, height, weight, marital and family status, national origin, or genetic information. Please visit our website at theneurocore.com for information on our organization, clinical team and programs.

N
N
notmourning
Lansing, US
Jun 06, 2013 9:42 am EDT

It was good to read your comments. Unlike all of you, my experience comes from the other end. I applied for employment in Okemos. I was a sp.ed. teacher and have obtained an M.A. in Ex. Phys. and counseling. Their advertising sounded like a good fit for me. After going through the entire application process, I was called two hours before my interview, to be told I was too old. So, the young unkempt comment makes sense to me. I believe we have lost the essence of professionalism. If you don't look and act the part, you are not professional!

L
L
Leinad
, US
Dec 20, 2011 12:30 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Thanks wheresjbob! - I too spoke with a mother who had good results, at least short term. I have not been to any seminars, and have only spoken with their rep, Nick. I would like to hear from Jackie and organicguy before I drive the 4 hours for the assessment and commit to the $3400 fee! Thanks to all, Leinad.

W
W
wheresjbob
Gotha, US
Dec 20, 2011 4:25 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Sorry for the constant posts. Here's some more info: The company that Leinad and I are looking into IS the same company in the complaint. It used to be called Hope 139. It's run by Tim Royer (who I met). However, there are articles with endorsements by NBA players that worked with him and Hope 139. http://blog.mlive.com/kalamazoo_gazette_extra/2008/03/nba_star_uses_neurofeedback_to.html What's described in the blog is what I was told and what I was looking to out of it. The Better Business Bureau have no complaints either.

W
W
wheresjbob
Gotha, US
Dec 20, 2011 4:10 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

@Leinad - Have you met any of them and did you go to any of their seminars? My son's teacher passed on the name of the company and told me about a seminar after hearing good things from another mother. I went to the seminar and met two of the people there, including one of the Drs that runs the show. They seemed reputable, but who knows. The concept seems to make sense. They also seem to work out of the RDV sportsplex with the Orlando Magic. Don't know how to verify that. If they do, I'd have no concerns.

L
L
Leinad
, US
Dec 20, 2011 3:33 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I just got off the phone with theneurocore: http://www.theneurocore.com -setting up an assessment for my daughter. I am now reading these reviews, and wondering if this is wise. Jackie and organicfan - I, like wheresjbob want to know if your experiences were with this group? Their offices are in Grand Rapids, MI, Grandville, MI, Grand Haven, MI, Holland, MI, Kalamazoo, MI, Okemos, MI and Orlando, FL. Thanks, Leinad.

W
W
wheresjbob
Gotha, US
Dec 16, 2011 3:40 pm EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I'm considering this service and think that this is not the same company that I am working with. Their URL is http://theneurocore.com. I went to a seminar and have gotten diagnostic for my self and son for $60. I'm in Florida and this company only seems to be based in MI but are in Orlando because they work with the Orlando Magic. Does anyone have info on them?

O
O
organic fan
Oviedo, US
Sep 03, 2011 5:30 am EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I feel sorry for Jackie and have had a similar experience with NEUROCORE formerly Hope
The staff is young, uneducated and barely trained in brain solving issues but their training is mostly in selling you the program. It is a mass production enterprise that doesn't pay attention in results but mostly in signing you up for an over $3000 program. They have a computerized system to make appointments that is not verified, so many mistakes are made and double appointments are booked.One assistant is supposed to view/adjust your progress during the session and do 7 other people at the same time in the same room...very unreliable!Some of the staff are rude and hygiene is not their priority.They reuse the same earphones and other device, from one person to another, without any cleaning. The Ten20 cleanser and conductive cream they use, are highly toxic and applied on the ears and the cranium.Research has shown some of the ingredients like methyl and propyl-parabens in their cream to be carcinogenic and one would think the application on the skin with an electrode makes it even more absorbed by the body. Glycerin and Polyoxyethylene20 cetyl Ether also have a long list of side effects that nobody at NEUROCORE wants to hear about...liability is the issue here...They are pushing you to refer people before you ever know what the session is all about and frankly are unaware of people needs. No therapy here and the contract is worded carefully so that if you don't get any result, you can't blame them. Do your research before spending your money there.

D
D
DrJeffRoistacher
Moorestown, US
Jun 04, 2010 3:47 pm EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I would like to comment that currently there are two completely different companies using the NeuroCore name. Unfortuantely, we are in the middle of a trademark case and it will not be rectified for many months. I work for the company that is NOT listed above. We are NeuroCore Therapy and our website is http://neurocoretherapy.com. We can also be found on Facebook under "NeuroCore Therapy."

I know it may be confusing that there are two companies with very similar names. The #1 compliment we receive from our doctors is how wonderful our support is. I hope when our potential NeuroCore Therapy doctors are performing a Google search they realize that we have 100% satisfaction rate. We will go above and beyond for our clients!

Dr. Jeff Roistacher
DrJeff@neurocoretherapy.com

Trending companies