Target Frequency
The main objective of the session is the target frequency. In most sessions, you want to reach the target frequency as quickly as possible and stay there as long as possible.
High Beta- 22 to 38 Hz. This range can aggravate anxiety and even trigger a panic attack. It is almost always avoided as entrainment. Inhibits low beta.
Upper Beta- 16 to 21 Hz. Entrainment to these frequencies is used to increase cognition and boost focus. It can also be used for excitement and motivation.
Low Beta (SMR)- 12 to 15 Hz. Entrainment to this frequency produces a focused yet relaxed state. It is also the frequency in which the sensory-motor cortex operates. Entraining to SMR frequencies can create better sleeping patterns and build resistance to stress and anxiety. Low beta has a balancing effect, inhibiting high beta and theta.
Alpha—8 to 11 Hz produces a relaxing meditative state, the beginning of the suggestible state for hypnotherapy. Alpha frequencies have also been found to relieve pain and reduce stress and anxiety. They inhibit delta and upper beta.
Thalpha- 9 to 7 Hz. The hypnagogic state. This is the twilight sleep stage, and hypnotists find the beginning of the hyper-suggestible state helpful. This is where the Schumann Resonance (7.83 Hz) resides.
Theta- 3 to 7 Hz. Light sleep or deep meditation. Suppressing Theta one (3-5 Hz) can improve concentration and focus. Theta two (5-8 Hz) very relaxed dreamful sleep. It is suitable for mental programming. Theta is the gateway to the subconscious. Repressed memories may surface while in theta. Suppresses beta.
Delta- .2-3 Hz. Deep, dreamless sleep. Human growth hormone and healing take place during delta sleep. Entrainment below 2 Hz is technically too slow to produce entrainment. Still, entrainment at these slow frequencies is good for chronic pain, soothing emotions, and control of autonomic functions. Suppresses alpha.
Some papers show gamma starting at 30 Hz, while others at 40. It ranges up to 100 Hz. Gamma behaves differently than other brain waves. It can appear anywhere in the brain and usually as bursts of activity. Gamma shows up when performing complex tasks such as playing music. Recent studies have linked gamma AVS to stopping and even reversing the production of destructive proteins in the brain, which causes dementia.
The Lunarsight Brainwave Frequency list is a fun list of target frequencies and their proposed effects. Some have scientific backing, and others should be taken with a grain of salt. My attitude is that you have everything to gain and nothing to lose.