'98 Winter Brain Meeting Abstracts

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Biofeedback Industry and FDA Compliance: Dr. Anand Akerkar, Ph.D.

Chief Executive Officer mdi Consultants, Inc. , 55 Northern Blvd. , Great Neck, NY 11021 Tel# (516) 482-9001 Fax# (516) 482-0186

E-Mail Anand@mdiconsultants.com              website: www.mdiconsultants.com

 

For decades, industries such as pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, biologicals, dental etc. have been complying with the FDA regulations and striving. Biofeedback falls into the category of both diagnostics and treatment which has always been found to be both safe and effective. However, the FDA has always felt that biofeedback is not a science, and is probably more like "witchcraft". This statement is not meant to underscore the FDA’s understanding of the subject, but it is a reflection on the attempts that the biofeedback industry has made to gain the scientific recognition it deserves. However, more recently FDA has begun to accept biofeedback as a recognized technique for diagnostic uses.

Five years of Neurofeedback in a Public Charter School - Building a Base and Expanding into the Community. John S. Anderson, MA

A Chance To Grow, Inc./New Visions School - IDS #4011 3820 Emerson Ave. N , Minneapolis, MN 55412 612-521-2266 e-mail - jsander@fishnet.com

 

Report on 34 elementary school students receiving daily AVS training

Twenty public and fourteen parochial school students received daily Audio/Visual Stimulation (AVS) training in Perham, a small community in northern Minnesota. Pre-testing consisted of the TOVA 7 and teachers and parents completion of the Burks’ Behavior Rating Scale (Burks’). Eight of the students were given more extensive academic testing pre and post training. Students were referred to the program with a variety of learning and behavior problems including attention problems, impulsivity and hyperactivity, reading and other academic delays, anxiety and others.

    Parent permission was obtained using a carefully developed informed consent, which documented the potential negative effects, including the possibility of induced seizure activity from the training. Students received an average of 31 sessions of AVS training with a minimum of 26 and a maximum of 35 sessions out of 38 opportunities. Equipment used was the Comptronics David Paradise XL unit amplified through a 10 person splitter with individual sound and light intensity controls for each participant. "Tru-View" eyesets with white lights were used throughout the study.

    Sessions lasted 20 to 22 minutes. The first 8 sessions consisted of a combination of alpha and theta frequencies. Subsequent sessions utilized a protocol developed by Michael Joyce consisting of cycles of 2 minutes with left brain (right visual field and right ear) stimulation at 18 hz and right brain (left visual field and left ear) stimulation at 12 hz followed by a 30 second ramp to 10 hz bilaterally for 2 minutes and then a repeat of the cycle for 22 minutes. All sessions finished with a 1 minute "soft off" period.

    Results are currently being evaluated and will be presented for the first time at the Futurehealth Conference in Palm Springs. Preliminary results show significant improvement in most measures.

Schools and Clinical Practice - Neurofeedback is not enough. John S. Anderson

Five years of Neurofeedback (NFB) in the public schools and in clinical practice shows that EEG is not enough. This workshop will present data on more than 100 students plus specific case histories. It will also challenge your assumptions with data on AVS, HSAS, VT, and NPP which address needs that NFB cannot. These methods can be an exciting adjunct to a clinical practice.

Abstract: Five years of experience using NFB in the public schools and in clinical practice has shown that NFB alone is not sufficient to address all the needs presented by students in the school or by clients in a clinical practice. Other interventions may be more effective and may be necessary before NFB can work. Screening or testing for theses needs and then providing training specific to their resolution can significantly enhance a private practice. It is also a highly effective approach to the difficulties faced by our public and private schools.

Neurofeedback training was introduced to the Minneapolis Public Schools in 1990. Housed in Shingle Creek School in North Minneapolis, the program saw only a few students but results were encouraging so the program continued. The program moved to Harrison School in 1991 and then found a permanent home in New Visions School in 1992. New Visions School also incorporated other unique educational interventions such as Vision Therapy (VT) and Neuro-Physiological Programming (NPP). It became clear that these interventions were effective for students when NFB was not or was a helpful adjunct to NFB when this was indicated.

Students who could not perform basic visual processing tasks needed specific visual training exercises to encourage the development of appropriate visual processing skills. Children with poorly developed nervous systems who had mixed hand, foot, and eye dominance needed specific physical exercises repeated daily with sufficient frequency, intensity and duration to encourage age appropriate neurological development.

These services were grouped loosely under the umbrella of a non-profit agency known as A Chance To Grow, Inc. (ACTG). New Visions School (NVS) was a Public Charter Elementary School begun by ACTG to provide a way to bring these services to underserved children and adults in the inner city of Minneapolis. The gains realized by NVS students were remarkable. Starting with at least a year deficit in reading to be enrolled in NVS, students have made an average of 1.6 years gain in reading level for each year NVS has been in operation. Where they were failing in their previous school placement and falling further and further behind in reading each year, now they were making more than a years gain for each year they were in NVS.

The services were also available to adults and children from the surrounding community both during the school year and through intensive summer programs. Results for these outside clients were equally impressive and encouraged ACTG to begin the process of raising funds to build an new building to more adequately house all of its programs.

In 1996 the Speech and Audiology department of ACTG began exploring the use of corrective measures for students with auditory processing deficits. They settled on a standard program developed by Kjeld Johansen of Denmark which uses specifically designed audiotapes to promote optimal hearing levels and right ear dominance. The first year only 10 students received this training and only 7 received pre and post testing. Of these, 6 improved and 4 showed significant improvements.

Audio/Visual Stimulation (AVS) was introduced on a limited basis in the fall of 1997. Michael Joyce, an associate of ACTG in Perham Minnesota, began a more comprehensive program at the same time. He performed pre and post TOVA’s and parent and teacher Burks’ Behavior Rating Scales with 34 students who received daily AVS sessions focused on increasing mental flexibility. Results were generally quite positive and in some cases were remarkable.

This workshop will present ways clinicians can incorporate these methods into a private clinical practice and will also cover how to bring these methods into the public and private schools in virtually any area.

Sources of funding will be discussed including state grants for technology, special education services and demonstration projects.

Clinical Associate, Dept. of Behavorial Sciences, Northwestern University and Private Practice, Evanston, Il.

Baehr & Baehr LTD. 1603 Orrington Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201 (708)869-2853 (708)676-1779 fax: (708)869-8070 email: e-baehr@nwu.edu

For the past three years we have been using an alpha asymmetry protocol* as an adjunctive treatment for clinical depression. While we have seen apparently remarkable change in a short time in some individuals, we have found that this treatment approach does not work for all types of individuals, and all types of depressions. This paper summarizes our current findings, and discusses some of the problems which have emerged during the treatment process.

*A patented protocol. Dr. Peter Rosenfeld, Dept. of Psychology Northwestern University Evanston, Il. jp-rosenfled@nwu.edu

Donald Bars, Ph.D Treasure Valley NeuroScience Center 411 North Allumbaugh Boise, Idaho 83710

(208)376-2518 fax# (208)376-2521 e-mail# tvnc@rmci.net

This paper discusses the results of an on-going quasi-experimental research project investigating the use of quantitative electronencephalographic (QEEG), visual (VEP), and auditory (AEP) evoked potential studies as aids in the differential diagnosis of psychiatric behaviors in children and adolescents. Participants were 328 individuals (ages 6-18) evaluated during 1995 and 1996. Based upon preliminary clinical research in our laboratory, individuals were classified into four groups, (1) Attention/Deficit- Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), (2) Affective disorder without VEP indicators of explosive or ruminating behaviors, (3) Affective disorder with VEP indicators of explosive or ruminating behaviors, and (4) mixed ADHD/affective disorder (N=42, 83, 118, 85 respectively).

Statistical analysis of QEEG absolute power, across all standard revealed that each group could be significantly (all p’s < .001) distinguished by the activity occurring. The outcome of this study suggests that it is possible to utilize electrophysiological data to obtain more precise diagnostic categories associated with ADHD and affective disorders, enhancing therapeutic specificity and outcomes.

 

Neurofeedback with Court Ordered Criminal Offenders In & Out of Jail, Alfonso Bermea

Neurotherapy Consultative Services 2467 SW Kingsrow Road Topeka, Kansas 66614 ncs@cjnetworks.com

Alfonso will present current information on the treatment of clients who have been convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) or convicted of possession of illegal narcotics and those who were drinking when they committed domestic violence and are court ordered to attend and complete drug and alcohol treatment. The information he will share describes a new relationship between Neurofeedback and the criminal justice system. At a time when the courts are searching for an effective alternative to incarceration and recidivism this model of treatment offers much hope.

Anyone working with clients who have a history of problems which led to involvement in the criminal justice system will appreciate the information Alfonso will present in this 2 hour workshop. Alfonso will cover the clinical treatment of addictions, alcoholism, drug addiction, post traumatic stress disorder, mild closed head injury, ADD, ADHD, violent behavior, and domestic violence. The issue of interfacing treatment with the court system and developing referrals will be covered. Alfonso will report on the status of Neurofeedback in the criminal justice system focusing on the development of a new model of treatment incorporating Neurofeedback as the foundation for change

Bio: Mr. Alfonso Bermea Jr. currently lives in Topeka, Kansas where he serves as the Program Coordinator, for the Wellness Addiction Community Treatment Health (WATCH) program. This program is directed by the Life Sciences Institute of Mind Body Health, Inc. under the directors Steve Fahrion, Pat Norris, Carol Snarr and Jeff Nichols all formerly of the Menninger Institute in Topeka. Alfonso's experience in working with violent, addicted criminal and psychiatric populations spans more than decade. Alfonso is recognized for the research he conducted while with the Texas Youth Commission, working with violent and addicted youthful offenders who had committed murder.

Alfonso is the Chief Executive Officer of Neurotherapy Consultative Services a private company he developed to provide training and consultation nationally and internationally.

121 Prospect St. Port Jefferson NY 11777 516-473-7317 weare@zengar.com

Neurofeedback is a breakthrough approach to resolving dysfunction, improving performance and enhancing life experience. However, most of the models and techniques are overly complex and confusing to beginning practitioners. This presentation discusses a simple, yet comprehensive approach to Neurofeedback that integrates all of the other major protocols. Utilizing a Five Phase Model, this core approach gives you a firm functional understanding to how the CNS recovers from dysfunction and returns to its natural state of healthy chaos. From this perspective it becomes possible to understand the underlying core of the clinical practice of Neurofeedback in a way that will simplify the learning process and let you get results quickly – regardless of what brand of equipment you use.

You will learn:

-How "theta" is actually composed of three targets frequencies (3, 5 & 7 Hz) each with its own role in health and dysfunction

-To target augment frequencies precisely and sequentially to treat even the most challenging clients in a safe manner

-The differential effects of training Alpha (8-12 Hz), SMR (12-15 Hz), Low Beta (15-18 Hz), Aura (19-23 Hz), Peripheral Warmth (26-30 Hz)

and Shear (38-42 Hz) Rhythms

-The use of FFT and direct digital filtering systems and their relative roles in clinical decision making and data analysis

-The value of Cz as a central site for training

What you don’t know about NF could fill a book – or empty your Practice Part I: The Period 3 Approach to the Chaotic Control Mechanisms Underlying CNS Renormalization Valdeane Brown

Neurofeedback is an exciting arena in which new discoveries and protocols are emerging at an unprecedented rate. The list of disorders and conditions that respond to Neurofeedback is almost as extensive as the bewildering array of techniques and theories that have promulgated around it.

The field is limited, however, by linear models of EEG and overly complex neuroanatomical theories. These older ideas have led clinicians to maintain a "sickness" based orientation that is predicated upon discerning the precise disorder afflicting each client and, then, devising a specific treatment for that particular disorder. At best, such linear complexity is unnecessary for developing an effective paradigm for neurofeedback.

Most of the clinical applications of Neurofeedback have used a single channel of EEG, with multiple bandwidth filters being applied, in order to provide feedback re: ongoing shifts in frequency and amplitude in the EEG signal. These approaches are based on linear mathematical models which assume a one-to-one relationship between feedback targets and clinical change. Thus, for example, an increase in amplitude in a particular frequency range (Beta) is thought to lead to a decrease in a specific symptom (Early Morning Awakening). Although these theories have expanded to include simultaneous inhibits of different bands and to the use of ratios between the inhibit and augment targets (e.g. Theta/Beta ratios and ADD, they remain unidimensional, linear, neuroanatomically anchored and symptom oriented. They have also led to protocols using only minimal sets of auditory and visual feedback in order to keep from "overwhelming the client" with too much information.

These traditional approaches ignore two critical factors: a.) the EEG signal is non-linear, dynamical, chaotic in structure; andb.). the CNS is non-linear in organization. Four important elements emerge from a close consideration of the non-linearity of the CNS and EEG.

1. EEG is not appropriately captured by mathematical tools based on linear transforms (such as FIR, IIR, FFT or even IQM techniques).

2. Dysfunction is better characterized in terms of discrete attractors within the spectrum, and functionality is better captured as the ability to fluidly shift amplitudes throughout the spectrum.

3. The CNS can not be trained optimally with linear procedures, but requires the use of non-linear, dynamical control mechanisms.

4. Since the CNS is non-linear, it is designed to process and respond effectively to incredibly dense stimuli arrays in the midst of very noisy environments so feedback can be complex, differential, syncopated and simultaneous.

This presentation demonstrates and discusses a radically different approach to Neurofeedback that integrates these ideas and addresses the problems inherent in the older, linear models. The Period 3 Approach trains multiple feedback parameters simultaneously using two discrete, real-time channels of EEG. Unique non-linear, dynamical approaches to threshold setting are utilized in very precise ways that reflect the chaotic structure of the EEG itself.     Combining these factors appropriately challenges each hemisphere to disrupt its specific attractors of dysfunction while being chaotically synchronized to basins of functional stability. This directly perturbs the entire CNS to maximally reorganize its dynamical structure and reestablish a healthy degree of chaos – i.e., the adaptive and resilient chaos that is characteristic of vital physiological systems. The goal is to increase the self-regulatory ability of the CNS, not to decrease particular symptoms, so a single, comprehensive theory can be applied effectively to all clinical phenomena -- regardless of the presenting complaint or emergent symptomatology of the client.

Clinical approaches to Neurofeedback are often highly detailed and complex, leading the beginning- and even experienced practitioner, to feel less than adequate in treating the variety of disorders that walk through the clinical door.

Such complex treatment protocols stem from a viewpoint which places disorder at the hub of our interventions- a "sickness based" model which, much like western medicine, assumes disorders are discrete entities necessitating different and distinct treatment protocols. Under this model, the challenge is to discover the "right" treatment, which is also likely to be "wrong" for another disorder.

The powerful yet simple strategies to be offered in this "hands-on" presentation stem from a way of working that places self-regulation, not disorder, at its center. We call this paradigm the Period 3 Approach.

This new approach integrates non-linear, dynamical approaches to control of feedback systems with the clinical wisdom of the prior Five Phase Model of CNS Functional Transformation developed by Dr. Valdeane W. Brown.

The Period 3 Approach trains multiple feedback parameters simultaneously using two discrete, real-time channels of EEG. Unique non-linear,

dynamical approaches to threshold setting are utilized in very precise ways that reflect the chaotic structure of the EEG itself. Vital to the

safety and success of this approach is the use of appropriate inhibits.

These will be detailed as well as sequences of augments. The extraordinary non-linear results currently noted from the use of an original (21 Hz), and a less commonly used (40 Hz), frequency bands will particularly be addressed, as will working with patients concurrently receiving ECT. You will also discover how you train two very different attentional states on the left and right side of the brain simultaneously, increasing the power of your interventions.

Combining these factors appropriately challenges each hemisphere to disrupt its specific attractors of dysfunction while being chaotically synchronized to basins of functional stability. This directly perturbs the entire CNS to maximally reorganize its dynamical structure and reestablish a healthy degree of chaos – i.e., the adaptive and resilient chaos that is characteristic of vital physiological systems. The goal is to increase the self-regulatory ability of the CNS, not to decrease particular symptoms, so a single, comprehensive theory can be applied effectively to all clinical phenomena -- regardless of the presenting complaint or emergent symptomatology of the client.

Neurofeedback is unparalleled as a vehicle for providing the brain with what it works with best- information. Given appropriate information the brain begins to self-regulate more effectively and efficiently. When this happens, a myriad of apparently disparate symptoms drop away. It doesn’t matter if you are talking about anxiety, depression, immune system dysfunction or pain- it is, after all, all the same nervous system.

The Period 3 Approach is equally applicable to remediation of symptoms as well as training for personal growth, spiritual development and optimal (peak) performance. Its simple and straightforward methods will particularly resonate with:

__ providers interested in appealing to the "personal growth" market as a means of reducing dependency on managed care;

__ providers who want to ensure rapid and powerful results while effectively eliminating unwanted side effects;

__providers challenged by a particularly diverse range of client problems, and

__ entry level Neurofeedback practitioners who are excited but confused about how best to proceed with development of their own clinical practice.

-Develop screens that allow your biofeedback practice to come alive.

-Modify audio qualities, feedback contingencies and display options for maximal client response.

-Combine screens into protocols that simplify clinical decision making and increase your efficiency and effectivess.

-Preview the next release of the Biograph system and receive the latest information on anticipated new features.

-Work with examples of state of the art screens and multimedia presentations based upon the Period 3 and Five Phase Models of CNS Functional Transformation developed by Dr. Brown

Last year's presentation on the Brownback Mason Protocol demonstrated how single placement training to increase theta amplitude at the central, parietal, occipital and temporal lobes helped clients to connect with dissociated traunatic material. This year we will look at how to further augment the Brownback Mason Protocol by using multiple placement montages with a variety of additional training paradigms to enhance the speed and vividness of conscious awareness of buried traumatic memories.

A number of clients who have been sexually and physically abused, especially clients who have been subjected to satanic and ritualistic abuse, have reported experiencing two types of phenomena in their inner world. One phenomena is generally known as personalities or alters and refers to the split off aspects of consciousness which are accompanied by an underlying abnormal EEG pattern. The other phenomena which some clients report and which is very subjectively different is that there are actual spiritual entities which they believe to be demons. These two phenomena will be discussed as well as the the need for different treatment strategies (which include neurotherapy).

The Brownback-Mason Protocol is a fully integrated therapeutic approach incorporating EEG biofeedback for the treatment of dissociation. Dissociation is the splitting off of consciousness from a person's identity. This "splitting off" process is based in trauma. Trauma affects the brain anatomically, neurologically and biochemically. Traumatic verses non-traumatic memories are stored in the brain in different places and in different ways.

Until recently the only means of accessing this traumatically stored material has been through psychotherapy, hypnotherapy and guided imagery. These methods are typically slow, often requiring ten or more years to achieve full integration.

When using the Brownback-Mason Protocol the following results have been attained:

1. A significant increase in the ability to access the dissociated material.

2. The time to accomplish full integration is reduced by as much as 70%.

3. Clients experience a heightened sense of mastery over their lives.

What you will learn in this workshop:

1. How and why the EEG of a dissociative differs from a normal EEG.

2. Where and how traumatic versus non-traumatic memories are stored.

3. How using the Brownback-Mason Protocol will promote normalization of the EEG.

4. Why monitoring one or two bands of EEG are not enough to produce the most effective results.

5. How to do full spectral training in order to attain attentional flexibility.

Thomas S. Brownback is a licensed psychologist in the state of Pennsylvania, and is nationally certified in biofeedback therapy, neurotherapy, quantitative EEG and addictions. He is the Executive Director of Brownback, Mason and Associates, a group psychological private practice in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Tom has worked in the area of dissociation for over twenty years and has been directly involved in the treatment of over one hundred cases. He has appeared on national television concerning his work in this area. Tom has been asked to speak at conventions and conferences around the country about the Brownback-Mason Protocol which utilizes neurotherapy in the treatment of dissociation/addictions. Therapists and clients from across the country come to his office for intensive training and intensive outpatient treatment.

SynchroMed, LCC & the Dept. of Psychosocial & Community Health, Univ. of Washington

5148 NE 54th Street, Seattle WA 98105 206-525-2940 F 206-545-6833 tbudzyn@u.washington.edu

Quantified EEG techniques may be useful in the diagnosis of certain disorders. An early study by Billiott, Budzynski and Andrasik (1997) involved the monitoring of the EEG from Cz in 28 chronic fatigue patients and 28 matched normals. The CFS group showed a significant magnitude increase in certain theta bands and a decreased peak alpha frequency compared to normals when under stress. In an ongoing study at the University of Washington we are examining the QEEG’s of identical twins one of whom has CFS. Although the study is double blinded and the code is still unbroken, we have discerned certain maladaptive EEG patterns. The results obtained thus far will be discussed

As much as one-third of the population over the age of 65 suffers from memory problems as well as other cognitive deficits. Our population is aging at its fastest rate in history. There is a rapidly growing need for techniques that can help with these cognitive problems. Cognitive health in old age goes hand-in-hand with physical health. Animal studies are quite clear with regard to the effects of environmental stimulation on the mental as well as the physical health of even aged animals. Cerebral blood flow and EEG studies document the gradual changes that occur with age. Stress effects on short-term memory are considerable and must be taken into consideration as well. Photic stimulation acts to increase cerebral blood flow as does certain types of neurofeedback. Even audiocassette tapes can be used to reduce stress and improve the EEG signature in the elderly. The research with all three of these applications would suggest that a program which incorporates all of them would be especially beneficial to those otherwise healthy elderly individuals who complain of cognitive deficits. The neurofeedback parameters that may be the most helpful will be discussed as well as the research on all three applications.

Expanded Technologies inc. 8317 Ashbourne Dr. Shreveport, LA 71106 318 865-5941 Fax 865-9755 sam@vi-lab.com

When I began developing biofeedback applications in the late 70's, design decisions centered around selecting the best hardware platform ( e.g., Apple, Commodore, Rockwell ). With the introduction of the IBM PC and MSDOS, hardware became less and less of an issue until the mid 80's when developing software for IBM and MSDOS became a requirement for staying competitive.

    For the last five or six years design decisions have shifted to the pros and cons of developing mission critical biofeedback software using DOS versus Microsoft Windows. Our decisions have been profoundly influenced by the realization that personal computer hardware design is driven by Microsoft Windows. The current crop of multimedia machines are obviously designed to run Windows applications with little concern for the user wishing to run legacy DOS applications. A sterling example of the lack of support for DOS is the, almost universal, absence of DOS compatible mouse drivers on newer computers.

When arguments are made for DOS versus Microsoft Windows as platforms for mission critical applications the complexity and perceived fragility of Windows is often cited as reason to opt for DOS. The second most common argument maintains that Windows is inherently slower than DOS and the multitasking features of Microsoft Windows introduce unacceptable latencies in processing real-time data.

    The current focus on Windows compatibility by computer manufacturers coupled with advances in both data acquisition software and hardware significantly weaken these arguments. In fact, the movement away from DOS by computer manufacturers and Microsoft actually makes it much more difficult to develop, maintain and support DOS applications which will run reliably on today's multimedia computer.

    The current release of Windows 95 is significantly more reliable than previous iterations and peripheral hardware, such as printers, frequently take advantage of Windows 95 plug and play reducing complications and problems often seen when assembling complex systems.

    If necessary, problems arising from conflicts with concurrently running programs can be handled by requiring the operator restrict processing to the more demanding biofeedback software.

    Concerns over latency have been addressed by incorporating buffers in both data conversion hardware and signal processing algorithms.

Properly implemented, buffers allow data to be sampled, processed and displayed at aggregate rates of up to 200,000 samples per second without missing or dropping data. The current offerings of multimedia computers with clock speeds well in excess of 133 MHz, high speed RAM and hard disks make the relatively slow acquisition and processing speeds required for most biofeedback applications easily achievable.

    The dazzling array of multimedia options, expanded resources made available by multitasking and availability of inexpensive plug-ins and third party software add-ons make the decision to develop biofeedback Windows based applications compelling.

818-789-3491 F 818 788-6137 eegdennis@aol.com eegzone@starone.com 102056.645@compuserve.com

Mental fitness has come to be appreciated as the key differentiator between great and not-so-great performers at all levels, in all disciplines. EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) has proven itself to be useful in training control of arousal and attention as well as training mental flexibility and stability, mostly in a clinical, pathology-oriented context. The use of neurofeedback for performance enhancement applications has come to be dominated by relatively simplistic, one-dimensional protocols that, although somewhat beneficial, reflect little of the rigor and breadth found in modern clinical applications. The result is that much of the possible benefit to be derived from neurofeedback for performance enhancement is being neither offered nor gained. This presentation offers the beginnings of a comprehensive model for the application of neurofeedback and other frequency based technologies to performance enhancement, drawn from current neurophysiological theory, non- pathology-oriented assessment methods and successful clinical outcomes.

Outline

1. Performance Types: Some Common and Unique Requirements

a. Repetitive action versus novelty

b. Reaction versus initiation

c. Simple versus complex

2. Assessment Methods: Where is the Process Breaking Down?

a. Continuous performance task evaluation

b. Evaluation of attentional and interaction styles

c. Progress measurement

3. Protocol Selection: Application of Available Tools

a. Training arousal and attention

b. Training relaxation and readiness

c. Releasing and reprogramming

4. Comprehensive Performance Enhancement Model

a. The Performance Cycle

b. The right tool for the job

Neurofeedback and Enhancing Golf Performance Brain Wave Training and Its Effect on Golf Performance

NeuroNavigators, an applied research group, selected at random golfers of different skill levels to see if helping golfers to manage their mind had a positive effect on improving their skills. The methodology blended neurofeedback technology, behavior change strategies, assessments, and coaching. The researchers--Dan Chartier (Ph.D.), Larry Collins (Ed.D.), and Darren Koons (M.S.)--wanted tosee if after training the participants shot lower scores, struck the ball sweeter, managed the mental side of the game better, and controlled stressful situations. As measured by the Profile of Mood States (POMS), an instrument used to measure mood states of sthletes, participants decreased the negative factors of tension, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, and fatigue while increasing their levels of energy and vigor. They reduced their eighteen-hole scores by an average of eight (8) strokes with a notable exception, namely, severl golfers who shot consistently in the 90’s recorded a 79 for their first time. Rsearch Format and Results Data from pre-and-post training golf scores and Profile of Mood States (POMS) scores show that neurofeedback (EEG) training has a beneficial effect on improving golf skills. Fifteen subjects completed 10 EEG training sessions and practiced a series of mind-body skilll integration sessions. The EEG training included a protocol that provided audio feedback contingent onthe simultaneous presence of three frequencies above a selected threshold. The skill integration practice included: (1) sensationalization and visulaization of perfect performance of a selected golf skill while maintaining targeted EEG activity, and (2) actual practice of the skill while attempting to produce the mind-body state achieved during the feedback training. Fourteen of the participants reported significant improement in their ability to strike the ball better, more consistently, more confidently, and more accurately. They stated they were able to putt more smothly, judge distances from the cup more accurately, and sense (feel) the putt better. They reported an increase in both their ability to focus anc concentrate. Twelve of the participants completed pre-and post training Profile of Mood States (POMS). The POMS resulkts for 10 of those 12 subjects showed development of what is called an "Iceberg Profile", a pattern of scores that is typically found in elite athletes. This is where the factors of tension, depression, anger, fatigue and confusion are reduced below the 50th T Score and factor of vigor is augmented above the 5oth T Score. In addition to improvement in their golf game and development of mood states seen in elite athletes, a number of participants also reported significant improvement in physical and mental health. Although medical and psychological symptoms were not a focus of this study, several subjects reported remission of troubling physical symptoms including muscle spasm pain and angina. Reports of psychological changes included improved concentration and coping with stress.

Consultant P.O. Box 24450 Cleveland, OH 44124 (216) 347-0422 tomc@brainmaster.com

This talk will consider the dynamical processes underlying EEG signals, and their implications for EEG modification training. The following issues arise: EEG signals are, in and of themselves phenomenological in nature, and reflect certain types of physiological, anatomical, and dynamical properties and activities of the brain tissue. By training and modifying EEG phenomena, we induce changes in the nervous system, hopefully toward

some desired end. On the other hand, mental functioning, intellect, behavior, and other properties of interest (attention, awareness, attitude, etc), are emergent properties of the brain/mind, which arise in a complex way, from lower-level activities in the nervous system.

We specifically address EEG phenomena such as the generation (or suppression) of specific frequency bands, training for generalized EEG suppression, training with complex feddback (phase-space, other displays), and DC or slow brain potentials. Each of these has a particular constellation of effects that it produces in the neural tissue. Overall, it is important to distinguish localized vs. diffuse brain phenomena, and to address the relationship between EEG functional topography and EEG training in a physiologically sound, yet general manner.

I have developed a protocol for training one-pointed focus that is much more sensitive and selective than any previous concentration protocol. My clinical experience indicates that, within the first 3-4 minutes, almost every naive trainee can understand that visually focussing on a small screen object makes it move reliably in a particular direction. Soon afterwards, usually within the first 6 minutes, they learn to reliably produce these changes, and can then do so for longer and longer time periods. Within the first session, most trainees can also learn to focus their attention on specific parts of their body or subtle details of conversation. This is in contrast to other neurofeedback protocols, which take longer to learn because they are far less clearly related to concentration. This new neurofeedback protocol rewards the trainee for suppressing a wide frequency band of EEG at the frontal location (AFz) that overlies the anterior cingulate formation, which has been suggested to be the central portion of the Executive Attention Network (by Posner and Raichle in Images of Mind). It was developed by following up the studies of Dr. Barry Sterman on B2 bomber pilots and other subjects doing continuous performance tests.

NeurobehavioralHealth Svcs , 5363 East Pima, Suite 100 Tucson, AZ 85712

(520)323-0062 (520)747-3136 fax: (520)323-1336 email: bcbrain@azstarnet.com

24 Browning Drive, Ossining, NY 10562 1.800.424.6832 http://MindFitness.com Whatis@MindFitness.com

SYNCHRONY training is of great interest to many Neurofeedback practitioners. As multiple channel Neurofeedback systems come into fashion synchrony strategies will become critically important to this field. However, there seems to be a number of opinions about what synchrony means. We hope to add to the confusion by explaining our views. We will also explain why we feel synchrony training is an important part of Neurofeedback's present and an even more important part of its future.

    Stroebel, Fehmi, Green and others came to the view that there was a special relationship between EEG Synchrony and quality of some mind states in the early 70's. This insight came as a result of measuring the synchrony present as unusually gifted individuals demonstrated relatively high orders of perception and self regulation. Not many are aware that the Nobel Laureate Francis Crick, coming from the traditional neuroscience "Binding" theory of consciousness, is reported to have suggested that EEG Synchrony may be the most accessible and practically usable signature of consciousness.

    Our considerable experience with synchrony training has convinced us that it has substantial applications with problem patients including Alpha P and Minus types. However, we believe that synchrony will play an even greater role in Performance / Life Enhancement training. The value of right / left hemispheric synchrony training is widely recognized but less is known about rear /frontal ( we think it is at least as important.) Our views are based on clinical observations and hypothetical, as much more controlled research needs to be done.

One of the most promising trends emerging in healthcare is assisting functional people in becoming more functional and treating subclinical symptoms. Performance Enhancement will probably grow exponentially in the near future. Neurofeedback opens a niche allowing practitioners expansion into this area. We have been Providing Performance Enhancement training since the 1970s (executives, writers, musicians, actors, models, athletes, etc.) enabling the development of heuristic strategies embodied in The Process(tm).

    The Process, designed to appeal to the "Actualizer" segment of the Value Added Lifestyle Survey, targets business, sports, education, art, and personal growth. "Actualizers" are trend setters, practice builders and the group most responsible for the evolution of biofeedback, integrative, complementary and alternative medicine.

    This innovative combination of strategies seeks to solve the problems attendant to delivering Neurofeedback / Performance Enhancement Training to the public individually and in small groups using qualified practitioners, inexpensive personal EEG trainers (with or without computerized systems) and a powerful, heuristic program designed to stand on its own with or without Neurofeedback.

    The Sense of Mission is enhanced by synthesizing Logotherapy, Psychology of Mind (Awareness), Quantum Physics, Chaos and Systems Theory, The New Economics, Voluntary Simplicity, Profound Attention, Exersize.

    We will discuss techniques for working with difficult EEG clients, integration of computerized Neurofeedback and Synchrony training. Demonstrations subject to time and equipment availability.

    Goals of this workshop include presenting our rationale for the surge of interest in Biofeedback assisted MindFitness programs and going as deeply as possible into the philosophy behind and architecture of The Process training strategies and business models .

BIO: R. Adam Crane, BCIAC Senior Fellow, BCIAEEG, NRNP Diplomate has been training professionals in Neurofeedback, traditional biofeedback (including APA accredited BCIA and Neurofeedback clinical certification) and developing innovative training, and biofeedback technology for 28 years. President American BioTec (Health Training Seminars), co-developer of CapScan, The Process, numerous Biofeedback products and services.

Focused Technology PO Box 13127 Prescott, AZ 86304 520-771-8697 F520- 778-5822 www.focused-technology.com info@focused-technology.com

Engineers are inherently troubleshooters and are inwardly driven to look for "what's wrong". This is in contrast to the clinician who is interested in "what works". Both approaches have their blind spots leading to strange outcomes. Since most of this conference will be directed toward "what works", this presentation will be directed toward some of our assumptions and "what's wrong".

What you don’t know about NF could fill a book – or empty your Practice Part II: Clinical Nitty-Gritty of the Period 3 Approach: Sue Dermit

Zengar Institute 121 Prospect St. Port Jefferson, NY 11777 516-473-7317, 516-473-0051 fax: (516)473-7317 email: weare@zengar.com

Clinical approaches to neurofeedback are often highly detailed and complex, leading the beginning- and even experienced practitioner, to feel less than adequate in treating the variety of disorders that walk through the clinical door.

Such complex treatment protocols stem from a viewpoint which places disorder at the hub of our interventions- a "sickness based" model which, much like western medicine, assumes disorders are discrete entities necessitating different and distinct treatment protocols. Under this model, the challenge is to discover the "right" treatment which is also likely to be "wrong" for another disorder.

The powerful yet simple strategies to be offered in this presentation stem from a way of working that places self-regulation, not disorder, at its center. We call this paradigm the Period 3 Approach. Neurofeedback is unparalleled as a vehicle for providing the brain with what it works with best- information. Given appropriate information the brain begins to self-regulate more effectively and efficiently. When this happens, a myriad of apparently disparate symptoms drop away. It doesn’t matter if you are talking about anxiety, depression, immune system dysfunction or pain- it is, after all, all the same nervous system.

Participants will be presented with a method of intervention standard for all individuals (yes, you read that right!), with the treatment emphasis being adjusted according to real time "reading of your data" as well as client symptoms. As such you are not treating according to pre-determined rules of thumb so much as where the client actually is at that time. As the client’s central nervous system becomes increasingly normalized, symptoms recede. Clients will be able to tolerate training across all frequencies regardless of presenting complaint. Inability to tolerate training at any particular frequency (e.g. beta) demonstrates that the brain is not yet appropriately self-regulating, rather than an intrinsic inability to tolerate beta per se.

Vital to the safety and success of this approach is the use of appropriate inhibits. These will be detailed as well as sequences of augments. The extraordinary non-linear results currently noted from the use of an original (21 Hz), and a less commonly used (40 Hz), frequency bands will particularly be addressed, as will working with patients concurrently receiving ECT. You will also discover how you train two very different attentional states on the left and right side of the brain simultaneously, increasing the power of your interventions.

The Period 3 Approach is equally applicable to remediation of symptoms as well as training for personal growth, spiritual development and optimal (peak) performance. Its simple and straightforward methods will particularly resonate with:

-providers interested in appealing to the "personal growth" market as a means of reducing dependency on managed care;

-providers who want to ensure rapid and powerful results while effectively eliminating unwanted side effects;

-providers challenged by a particularly diverse range of client problems, and

-entry level neurofeedback practitioners who are excited but confused about how best to proceed with development of their own clinical practice.

A Proposed Paradigm of Observed Relationships Between Attention Styles, Brain Activity, Arousal, Performance & Personal Experience. Les Fehmi, Ph.D.

A systemization of observations regarding the relationship between attention styles, brain activity, arousal, performance and personal experience will be articulated in graphic form. A derived model describes a possible neural mechanism which underlies the sense of presence (the sense of awareness) and its dissolution. A common example is when a part of the diffuse background of perception emerges into foreground. We call this the subject/object split; (or awareness/content of awareness split); when the foreground again merges into the background we call it "subject/object dissolution" (awareness/content dissolution). It is proposed that there are specific neural activity patterns that are associated with each event and that these patterns may also be trained and are associated with achievable attention styles, arousal levels, performance and personal experience.

The Clinical Applications of a Model Which Relates Attention Processes, Neural Activity, Arousal Level, Performance and Personal Experience Les Fehmi, Ph.D. & Susan Shor-Fehmi, C.S.W.

This workshop will describe a model of attention in detail by delineating the qualities of various attention states and by discussing how each state corresponds to specific neural activity patterns. How attention states and neural activity directly impact arousal, performance and personal experience will be discussed. Once a theoretical understanding of attention and its correlates is achieved, clinical applications will be presented along with useful techniques and exercises for facilitating the easy movement between attention states and corresponding neural patterns and arousal levels. We will continue on to illustrate how performance and personal experience are effected by attentional and neutral flexibility. These techniques will be demonstrated to and practiced by participants. Our goal is to give participants a practical sense of how attention is the most fundamental behavior we engage in and how it shapes the perception of the world around and within us. It is also our goal to provide each participant with a new experiential repertoire of attentional choices and the skill to employ these choices for appropriate clinical ends.

DYNAMICAL CONSIDERATIONS UNDERLYING EEG MODIFICATION TRAINING: PART II Robert F. Fischer, MD

Finally I will introduce our concept of primary and secondary synaptic training and its applications to optimum performance training with clients.

AUTHENTIC VOICE; A TWO-HOUR EXPERIENTIAL WORKSHOP with Singer/Songwriter Jan Garret

Foolchild Music 5306 Canta Loupa Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91401 (818)787-5545 Jazzjan@flash.net

Authentic: That which can be believed or accepted. Genuine, real.

 

Author: Creator, originator.

Authority: Power or influence resulting from practical knowledge. Self-assurance & expertise that comes from experience.

 

Voice: The physical, tangible, and audible extension of breath.

Breath is life-force energy.

Inspiration=In breath.

Expression=Out breath.

Reminder: You are not breathing yourself.

What/Who is?

The human voice is a natural bio-feedback system. Everybody has one. It's free, portable, and intimately accessible 24 hours a day. It is a 100% accurate auditory interface between the inner and outer worlds. By extension it includes our artistic voice and our voice in the larger community.

In this workshop you will learn (and be able to teach clients):

1) How to lighten up.

2) How to listen and respond creatively to what you hear, see, feel, and sense.

3) How to be present in time, space, and your own body through

a) Conscious awareness

b) Breath

c) Movement

d) Sound

4) Key exercises to give all aspects of yourself a voice, balance your energy, amplify and enrich your personal sound, and strengthen your power supply.

5) The unbendable Aikido arm technique and how it relates to

a) Attention

b) Intention

6) Practical benefits of toning, chanting, and singing for yourself and

with others (even if you think you can't carry a tune.)

7) Useful & encouraging ways to play it by ear: Improvisation in music and life.

Some milestones in the healing process and a higher functioning of the brain" Dr. Uwe Gerlach, Germany

Bettinger Str. 104, D-79639-Grenzach-Wyhlen, Tel. 0049-7624-980636, Fax -981319, e-mail: CompuServe 101362,1022 and uwegerlach@aol.com

 

1) The genuine inner healer can only be activated if the clients mind is driven by an inner wisdom and discipline.

2) In general the observation is valid that mostly more complex and intellectual people become seriously interested in developing their own mind.

3) If somebody is ill, there is an urgent need of initiating a healing process which can change his mind to a higher complexity.

4) As these processes are principally "chaotic" and not continuous, there are intermediate stages where the process can go down to a "bad end" or can go up to a higher complexity.

5) The chance for healing and/or peak performing states can drastically be augmented, if the organism (body and mind) often is in the "flow" state - e. g. the well known theta states.

6) In the healing procedure the neuronal networks are temporarily in a "plastic state" allowing a process of superlearning. Myriads of thoughts, feelings and sensual perceptions pass the mind and must be filtered and ordered. By feedback loops with the sensual input from the outer world new complex brain structures are formed which from now govern the personality. These new structures are felt to be energetic and can be changed at will.

7) When the traumata and brain blockades are removed, new positive energies can freely float through the brain and the body. The chance to become ill is drastically reduced.

Virtual environments (VE) have been used to successfully treat mental health disorders for the past five years. These include such disorders as fear of flying, fear of heights, fear of spiders, and eating disorders.

    Other studies are currently underway to treat attention-deficit disorder, autism, social phobia, and many neuropsychological disorders with virtual reality (VR).

Biofeedback and neurotherapy have been shown to also help successfully treat many of these same disorders. It is therefore interesting to note that to date, no studies have been published which include real-time physiological monitoring as part of VE treatment. The potential benefits of using physiological monitoring as part of VE will be discussed and an overview of the field of mental health and VR will be presented.

 Reading tasks and Lambda EEG activity. Jay Gunkelman

422 Jackson Street, Crockett, CA 94525 510-787-6849 qeegjay@earthlink.net

    Many clinicians are using the qEEG for evaluating brain function during intakes. Evaluating the brain under task, such as mental math or reading, adds significantly to the evaluation. Understanding what is being mapped requires a strong background in EEG as well as experienced technical skill during epoch selection.

    There are normal varients in EEG which are commonly seen in testing. The understanding of mapping requires knowledge of these findings and their appearance in the mapping.

    Lambda is one such normal varient, seen as theta in mapping. The waveform morphology, location and mapping of Lambda will be reviewed. The impact on interpretation will be discussed.

Hjorth Referencing in qEEG Jay Gunkelman

Every montage referencing technique has its unique advantages and weaknesses. Modern qEEG machines alow the user to remontage the data after it has been recorded. The advances in computer hardware computing power gives the user access to powerful resolution enhancing montages using Laplacian mathmatics.

These techniques are variously called: Hjorth, Laplacian, local average, source derivative and virtual references, depending on the schooling of the presenter. The technique will be discribed, as well as its strengths and weaknesses. Its importance in resolving mapping issues will be demonstrated with the qEEG mapping of a professional boxer.

Workshop: Introduction to qEEG Jay Gunkelman

The fundamentals of EEG will be covered with mapping used to illustrate various diagnostic examples, such as ADD, depression and epilepsy.

A comprehensive model of the brain will be developed, with graphic overheads. Rhythm generators, projection pathways, cortical functions, subcortical/cortical regulators such as the brain stem, thalamus, caudate and limbic system will all be included.

This presentation will lead to the presentation of detailed qEEG analysis from data illustrating head trauma, ADD/ADHD, affective disorders, memory deficits. Evoked potential data will also be displayed from attentionally disordered and affective patients. The implication for customized patient protocols is discussed.

The Theta State and Hypnosis Corydon Hammond

Most people in neurofeedback are unfamiliar with the research literature on hypnosis and brainwave patterns. In fact, many neurofeedback practitioners have been exposed to myths and misunderstand hypnosis, falsely perceiving it as not promoting self-regulation. Hypnosis refers to a state of focused attention. Research finds that when initially entering hypnosis, there is a great deal of 40 Hz activity, followed by a shift to theta brainwaves, particularly in the frontal regions, in the range of 5.5 to 6.5 Hz--the middle point of which is also 6.5 Hz! High hypnotizable persons exhibit more theta (5.5-6.5 Hz) brainwaves than low hypnotizables, both in a waking state, sitting with their eyes closed, and while in both alpha-theta training and in hypnosis, may be particularly focused in this range at about 7 Hz. Givien unique capacities associated with this range of theta activity, the routine use of theta inhibit programs should be questioned. High hypnotizables are found to manifest cognitive flexibility and very special capacities, including higher creativity and abilities to powerfully influence body processes (e.g., in asthma, GI disorders, hemophilia, would healing), including the capacity to produce profound analgesic relief equivalent to or greater than that produced by morphine. The relevance of this literature to clinical practice and for increasing a person’s self-hypnotic capacity will be discussed briefly, and elaborated more fully in alater workshop.

A research summary of the theta literature twenty years ago suggested that there were two types of the theta; a drowsy theta, and a theta associated with highly focused attention and involved in complex problem solving, such as doing mental arithmetic. More recent research will be noted that has found a mid-frontal theta centering on 6.5 Hz, that is associated with focused attention, and is more commonly associated with extroversion, low anxiety, and low neuroticism. Most people in neurofeedback are unfamiliar with the research literature on hypnosis and brainwave patterns. In fact, many neurofeedback practitioners have been exposed to myths and misunderstand hypnosis, falsely perceiving it as not promoting self-regulation. Hynosis refers to a state of focused attention. Research finds that when initially entering hypnosis, there is a great deal of 40 Hz activity, followed by a shift to theta brainwaves, particularly in the frontal regions, in the range of 5.5 to 6.5 Hz--the middle point of which is also 6.5 Hz! High hypnotizable persons exhibit more theta (5.5-6.5 Hz) than low hypnotizables, both in a waking state, with their eyes closed, and while in hypnosis. Some literature also suggests that mental imagery, such as we use in both alpha-theta training and in hypnosis, may be particularly focused in this range at about 7 Hz. Certain clinical poulations also posses higher hypnotizability, including in patients with 1) bulimia or purging anorexia, 2) more severe hyperemesis gravidarum in pregnancy, 3) posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, 4) insomnia, 5) nightmares, 6) temporomandibular joint and other chronic pain syndromes, 7) more intense uticaria symptoms, 8) more severe migraines, 9) conversion disorders, 10) dissociative disorders, and 11) phobias. Such data has relevance for understanding such disorders and for neurofeedback. High hypnotizables also manifest cognitive flexibility and very special capacities, including higher creativity and abilities to powerfully influence body processes, including the capacity to produce profound analgesic relief equivalent to or greater than that produced by morphine.

Unfortunately, the fields of neurofeedback and clinical hypnosis have very little intercommuication, and yet they are relevant to each other and can be synergistic. Barabasz, for example, utilizes a combination of neurofeedback and hypnosis in treating ADD. Following a brief discussion of this literature, this workshop will discuss and demonstrate the simultaneous use of hypnosis with binaural beat stimulation, and with photic and auditory stimulation, in the theta brainwave range. Issues of informed consent for liability protection will also be discussed, along with uses of deep, meditative trance and prolonged hynosis. It is believed that peak performance training might very beneficially utilize 6.5 Hz. as one of the training parameters (e.g, along with 13 Hz). I will overview research that we are beginning on increasing hypnotizability through utilizing neurofeedback along with light/sound stimulation, as well as clinical experience in increasing hypnotic responsivity. There will also be discussion of the beneficial use of positive suggestions during alpha-theta training. It is believed that persons utilizing clinical hypnosis can benefit from adding neurofeedback skills to their repertoire, and that clinicians utilizing neurofeedback (particularly with alpha-theta training) can benefit from learning more about utilizing hypnotic phenomena and enhancing their skillfulness in providing therapeutic suggestions and promoting imagery.

The Ultimate Peak Performers: Alpha Feedback Training for US Army Green Berets Dr. James V. Hardt

Biocybernaut Institute 1052 Rhode Island Street San Francisco, CA 94107 415- 824-5581 415-824-5582 Training@Biocybernaut.com

 

    Superstar athletes are often considered to exemplify peak performance. However, many athletes have an off-season where training goals become lower priority. US Army Special Forces have no off-season, and their training goals are always first priority. Two 12-man teams of US Army Green Berets received extensive training in EEG alpha feedback. Prior to their alpha EEG training, all 24 Green Berets had 4 channel EEG recordings of their EEG baselines under three conditions: Eyes Open and Eyes Closed [4 minutes each], and Eyes Closed with White Noise [6 minutes]. These baselines recorded simultaneous integrated amplitude EEG activity from 4 different cortical sites [O1 , O2 , C3 , C4]. Each soldier had a private interview following these recordings. Then all 24 soldiers went on a month-long meditation retreat [retreat is a bad word in the Army, so it was called a "meditation encampment"]. Following the month of meditation, the soldiers received the Biocybernaut Institute 7-day intensive alpha training. All trainings involved simultaneous integrated amplitude feedback [auditory plus digital scores] on at least two different cortical sites [O1 , O2], and were conducted at a high security Army base using a group EEG feedback system from Biocybernaut Institute, which had been configured to train 6 soldiers at the same time. The soldiers took batteries of personality tests before and after their alpha training. These tests included: MMPI, Myers-Briggs Type Inventory, and the Personality Orientation Inventory [POI], which operationalizes Maslow's concept of the self-actualizing personality. Also included in this pre-/ post-testing were the trait forms of the Multiple Affect Adjective Check List [MAACL], the Clyde Mood Scale [CMS], and the Profile of Mood States [POMS].

    Many of the action-oriented soldiers had a bad experience of the meditation encampment, which they experienced as very stressful. EEG baselines taken just after the encampment showed large reductions of EEG alpha activity. In contrast, their subsequent 7-day intensive alpha training was a very positive experience with both 12-man teams showing large increases in alpha activity. The Biocybernaut Institute EEG feedback equipment was available on the army base for 2 ½ months. After their initial week of intensive alpha training, the soldiers had continued access to the equipment for "tune ups". On voluntary days, when they could choose any activity they wished [swimming, playing ball, sleeping, PX], fully two thirds chose to do additional alpha feedback training, finding that it provided significant value to them personally and professionally.

    Comparing pre- and post-alpha training results, both 12-man teams showed significant reductions of their POMS scores of Depression/ ejection,Fatigue, Confusion/Bewilderment, Tension/ Anxiety, and Anger/Hostility. There were also significant reductions in their CMS scores of Sleepy, Unhappy, and Dizzy. The analyses of the MMPI and POI showed beneficial changes in personality dimensions that were linked to changes in the EEG alpha activity of the soldiers. These mission- relevant changes in personality were produced by learned increases in EEG alpha activity. Details on these sometimes complex changes will be presented as overheads during the presentation.

Healing ADD with NLP Thom Hartmann

Bio: Thom Hartmann is a the former Executive Director of a residential treatment facility for disturbed children, a psychotherapist in private practice in Vermont, and the award-winning and best-selling author of six books on Attention Deficit Disorder. His book Healing ADD will be out in March from Underwood Books.

Using Technology to Access "THE ZONE" in Sports & Health- Similarities of "THE ZONE" & Spontaneous Remission

THOMAS HAWES M Ed., Ed.S. 6738 Windmill Lane Memphis, TN 38120 901-755-4165 F 901-458-1120 email# jmykal@aol.com

Tom will conclude with a discussion of those characteristics and fundamental elements of accessing "THE ZONE" in sports and initiating a spontaneous remission during a health crisis.

2 - HOUR WS How To Use Technology To Accecss "The Zone" in Sports & Health. Tom Hawes

I. What Is "THE ZONE"?

A. Descriptions of "THE ZONE" by athletes.

B. Descriptions of "THE ZONE" by those

experiencing a health crisis.

C. Common characteristic of uncommon

experiences.

II. Using Audio, Video, Sound and Light To Access "

THE ZONE" Independently.

A. Programming the Sound and Light Machine for

the purpose of:

1. Keeping the mind engaged for 20 mins.

2. Catapulting the student into deeper states

with awareness.

B. Using video to create a right-brain syntax -

the story behind the story.

1. How computer graphics mimic the way

the brain thinks.

a. thoughts that run in parallel

b. thoughts that deflect off each other

c. thoughts that coalesce

2. Establishing metaphor, symbology, and a

right-brain alphabet.

3. Creating and ebellishing personal vision.

C. Using audio to guide the movement, rhythm and

create transitions.

III. Synchronizing The Audio, Video, Sound And Light

To Produce A "ZONE EXPERIENCE" - Discussion And Demonstration.

A. Initiating stillpoints.

B. Triggering releases.

C. Embellishing imagery.

D. Creating openings/insights.

IV. The role of Biofeedback

A. Tangible reflections of an invisible influence.

B. Refining the "Letting Go" response.

C. Monitioring progress.

V. An Overview Of This Type of Training.

A. Video interviews and self-reports of athletes and

those experiencing a health crisis who

initiated a sinificant personal shift.

B. EMG, GSR, and Thermograph profile.

1. Students accessing "THE ZONE"

2. Students not accessing "THE ZONE"

C. Accumulating "ZONE MINUTES" - the

momentum to initiate significant personal

shifts.

VI. Do We Push The River Or Adjust The Current?

 The Work of D.A. Quirk, Psychologist: Rapid Effective Treatment of Incarcerated Violent Felons Using EEG Biofeedback; George Von Hilsheimer

Discusses the development of Quirk's technique of the treatment of bizarrely violent young males and reviews application of his method to contemporary modes of neurotherapy.

Wolpe was unable to treat schizophrenics using RIT. However, Quirk, the first psychologist in North America to be given full charge of a psychiatric ward enjoyed a remarkable success using GSR to monitor physiological responses to hierarchically arranged lantern slides in Rorschach categories. Quirk and his colleague credited desensitization to Mary Cover Jones.

The combination of Mary Cover Jones' method with Sterman's EEG biofeedback reliably allows restoration of long term schizophrenic and bipolar patients to effective independence and avoidance of hospital (and drugs). Quirk also reduced recidivism in male felons from 98% to 40% using similar tactics. His application of these well established methods in private practice made a range of bizarre behaviors accessible to neurotherapy.

DIMENSIONALITY OF THE MIND & BODY: Looking for the Common Denominator of Optimal Functioning

Michael Hutchison 2357 Botulph Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-983-7096 F 505-988-1158

The relationship between dimensionality and primary awareness is intriguing. The technologies mentioned above may be widely effective in assisting humans to learn not only to regulate their dimensionality but to clarify primary awareness. If so, they may in fact be tools for learning to drop off the limitations of individual personality and conceptual thought and move directly into fundamental awareness or presence. If so they would represent a significant advance over traditional inner technologies.

4 hr WS REGULATING DIMENSIONALITY: A LEARNABLE SKILL Michael Hutchison

such stimulation is effective in boosting brainwave dimensionality, cognitive functioning, learning, and memory, as well as treating drug and alcohol addiction, head injuries, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more.

Presentation title:

Author : Victoria L. Ibric, M.D., Ph.D., Therapy and Prevention Center, Pasadena, CA

UCLA Pain Medicine Center 200 Medical Plaza, suite 660 Los Angeles, CA 90095 310-794-1841 F 818-577-2202

Follow up of the cases presented last year. In addition, a presentation of another interesting case of spasticity post meningitis , post neck surgery, and high blood pressure. Some remarks on reflex sympathetic dystrophy. (More extensively presented at the workshop)

WORKSHOP Neurofeedback and Chronic Pain by Victoria L. Ibric, MD, Ph.D.

The attendees will learn how to assess and understand how to treat patients with chronic pain by the means of biofeedback/ neurofeedback.

1. Chronic Pain: Definition;

The anatomy and physiology the pain

Different Localizations/ Corticalization of the pain Causality

Differential Diagnosis

- Different Dx: eg MFPS, RSD,

thoracic outlet syndrome, spasticities, etc.

Pre BF therapies

Patient compliance with Medical Tx

Co- Morbidities (very important)

2. Acute pain vs Chronic Pain and acutization

Definitions;

Causality

Differential Diagnosis;

3. Biofeedback and PPP helping to understand the patient make up, as well as the degree of the physical impairment (specific EMG testings may be indicative, eg)

4. Neurofeedback training

When to chose NF vs EMG or TMP BF training, when to combine them?

NF training strategies Examples: MFPS, RSD, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, headaches, etc.

Electrodes positioning, BW frequencies, when to change or not the modality of training during a session, or during the course of training;

how to guide the patient and to monitor the evolution (what should you tell the patient to make him/her more compliant?)

5. Home work assignments:

Patient and therapist may learn how to monitor the pain and the emotions of the patient .and the interrelations between pain and emotions.

The generalization response may also be helped by the use of associated techniques, such as, RR, Mini relaxations, QR, TMP training, BE, etc

6. The Length of the training: depends: on the : patient make up and compliance, pre Tx and on going Tx, correct approach from the BF training standpoint, number of sessions per week, etc.

7. Follow ups! Success of the BF therapy is based on:

A: Patient dependence on other therapies-vs

B: Patient willingness to become self reliant

What to Do When NF Doesn’t Work: "EFT" - A New Tool to Boost Response to Neurofeedback Julian Isaacs

EFT is a useful technique to resolve unconscious blocks and resistances to NF.

4 hr.workshop Learn EFT - "Emotional Freedom Techniques": A Versatile Therapeutic Procedure For Emotional Self-Regulation, Psychotherapy and Dissolving Resistance to Neurofeedback.. Julian Isaacs

One of the most useful features of EFT is that it provides a powerful conceptual structure and practical methods for dealing with unconscious conflicts which block response to therapeutic interventions. An individual having such a conflict is said, in the language of EFT, to be "psychologically reversed" about the conflictual topic. Some individuals, who usually are those for whom "nothing works", are said to be "chronically" or "massively" reversed about many issues. Most NF practitioners have encountered this type of client who is usually referred by other practitioners who have been unable to help them. EFT includes a detailed analysis of, and a variety of techniques to deal with, psychological reversal. These will be reviewed in the workshop. The EFT "de-reversal" procedure has been tried with NF clients who had previously showed no gains, with dramatic success in some cases. You are invited to try this technique within your practice.

Neurofeedback training for chemical dependency in the context of the Minnesota Model; David Kaiser & William Scott

Experimental subjects improved on the depression, psychopathic deviate, psychasthenia, hysteria, and schizophrenia scales of the MMPI-2, p <.01. Similar personality changes were found for an alcoholic population (Peniston & Kulkosky, 1991). Experimental subjects remained in treatment twice as long as controls, 96.5 vs. 45.7 days, p<.01. Twenty-four percent of the neurofeedback group relapsed temporarily, but only 2 of 21 subjects (10 %) were no longer abstinent one full year after leaving the facility. As only five controls had completed treatment before July 1997, the 1996 patient population at this facility, whose treatment resembled the controls', was used as a comparison group for relapse rate. Of 72 patients contacted six months after treatment, 32 admitted relapse and collateral interviews revealed that an additional 20 were no longer abstinent. Thus the Minnesota model alone produced a 72 % relapse rate. Although further research is needed, the addition of neurofeedback training to conventional therapies appears to be the most promising new development in the field of chemical dependency treatment.

THE "SHERLOCK HOLMES METHOD" OF BIOFEEDBACK: SLEUTHING BEYOND THE OBVIOUS Lynda Kirk, MAHS, BCIA-C, QEEGT

Austin Biofeedback Center 3624 North Hills Drive, Suite B-205 Austin, Texas 78731

VOICE: (512) 794-WELL (794-9355) FAX: (512) 794-0076 E-mail: lkirk@texas.net

 

A successful outcome in biofeedback training, including EEG neurotherapy, often depends on the ability of the therapist to put on his or her Sherlock Holmes hat to find the unexpected pieces that complete the treatment puzzle. Using all of our resources, senses, and problem solving skills are key to devising specific and effective training protocols. This strategy of creative "sleuthing" often yields solutions to the problem in otherwise puzzling cases.

Six interesting clinical cases will be examined:

1) A CURIOUS CASE OF BELL'S PALSY: SOLUTION RINGS TRUE FOR A "CLOSET" HEADBANGER

2) THE "MIDNIGHT MONSTER MYSTERY": DRY SHEETS FOR DARLA

3) A CASE OF CHAOS IN THE CLASSROOM: POTTY TRAINING FOR TEACHER

4) THE CASE OF THE CONSCIENTIOUS COP: ANOTHER CULPRIT FINGERED

5) THE SECRET LIFE OF MS. THURSDY: A CURIOUS CASE OF "HAND AND MOUTH DISEASE"

6) "THE GUY IS FALLING, THE GUY IS FALLING" (HE'S DOWN AND HE CAN'T GET IT UP)

 

 

1) A CURIOUS CASE OF BELL'S PALSY: SOLUTION RINGS TRUE FOR A "CLOSET" HEADBANGER

A 25 year old female newswriter was referred by her neurologist for right hemifacial Bell's Palsy, "etiology unknown". The patient's initial history revealed no apparent neurological, myofascial, or soft-tissue trauma nor any excessive emotional or stress component to her symptom. The patient was successfully treated over a 6-week period with multimodal biofeedback. Surface EMG specific to the right orbicularis oculi, zygomaticus, frontalis, SCM, and masticatory muscles was used as well as EEG neurotherapy (SMR training at CZ). After symptoms abated, she suddenly exacerbated. Sleuthing revealed a secret life that she did not want her employer to know about. A few training modifications closed the case but

not the closet.

2) THE "MIDNIGHT MONSTER MYSTERY": DRY SHEETS FOR DARLA

A very bright eight year old child with ADHD was referred by her urologist for diurnal and nocturnal enuresis. She was successfully treated with EMG specific to dysfunctional voiding and incontinence. EEG

neurotherapy was also used to treat her ADHD as well as for striate and smooth muscle relaxation. She became asymptomatic for several weeks, and then regressed to nocturnal enuresis. Sleuthing revealed that there was a "monstrously" logical reason for her night-time bedwetting which was then creatively solved by asking the child some "clearly obvious" key questions, and following up with desensitization.

3) A CASE OF CHAOS IN THE CLASSROOM: POTTY TRAINING FOR TEACHER

A high school teacher was referred by her urologist for treatment of chronic urinary tract infections and large residual urines. With multimodal feedback (EMG and EEG neurotherapy) she was quickly able to learn skills which specifically addressed her dysfunctional voiding. Curiously, her symptoms got better every weekend, then worsened during the week. She loved to teach and denied that stress was a factor. Sleuthing

revealed the slick solution to her school day symptoms, which were solved with systematic desensitization and multimodal feedback.

4) THE CASE OF THE CONSCIENTIOUS COP: ANOTHER CULPRIT FINGERED

A police officer was referred by his physician for carpal tunnel syndrome and irritable bowel symptoms. He was treated with multimodal feedback (EEG, EMG, ST, EDR) for several weeks. His symptoms were slow to improve and I was unable to determine the reason for his slow progress by questioning him in the usual way. It was not until I rode with him in his patrol car that the sleuthing method "fingered the culprit" and his symptoms improved.

5) THE SECRET LIFE OF MS. THURSDY: A CURIOUS CASE OF "HAND AND MOUTH DISEASE"

A CAD computer artist was referred by her rheumatologist for treatment of fibromyalgia and carpal tunnel. Her carpal tunnel and fibromyalgia remediated with a combination of EEG and dynamic EMG retraining of the forearm flexors, extensors, and SCM's while she worked at her computer. However, her jaw continued to pop and she continued to complain of MPD symptoms in her jaws and neck. Sleuthing "whistled" up the solution after she revealed that she was a rabid basketball fan and UIL referee. EEG and EMG training were then tailored to her lifestyle with a winning outcome.

6) "THE GUY IS FALLING, THE GUY IS FALLING" (HE'S DOWN AND HE CAN'T GET IT UP)

A ceiling tile installer was referred by his urologist for treatment of lumbar pain and levator ani syndrome. The patient added that he had been having problems with impotence and that the impotence bothered him more than his other symptoms. His urologist had told him that his impotence was "probably psychological" since the patient awakened with morning erections. He was treated with multimodal feedback with only moderate results (dynamic EMG feedback and EEG neurotherapy). Sleuthing revealed that Spring and Fall are more than states of mind.The patient then improved after desensitization was added to his eclectic treatment plan.

Neuroscience in the Eighteenth Century: A note on the Historical Contribution of Emanuel Swedenborg

Stephen Larsen, Ph.D. Ctrr for Symbolic Studies, Inc. Stone Mountain Farm 475 River Road Ext. New Paltx, NY 12561

914-658-8540 F 914-658-3369

Descartes had described the brain as the seat of the soul, but believed it dwelt near the pineal gkand as a kind of homunculus, a ghost in a machine.

He accepted the view of the Seventeenth Century that said the cerebral cortex was "gland" that nourished the "real" brain (the white matter). Swedenborg, beginning with (forbidden) anatomical studies in France, and comparing reports of behavioral and psychological distortions experienced by those with brain damage as modern neuroscientists do, described the locations of certain brain functions, the role of the cerebrospinal fluid, asserted the cerebal cortex (gray matter) was the "thinking brain," inferred the presence of neurons before microscopes powerful enough to discover them had been invented.

In the second part of his life Swedenborg became a visionary, and was rumored to have paranormal powers, a claim verified by Immanuel Kant. He claimed a literal kind of "in-sight" into the brain, discovering by direct means (he said), that the "cerebellula" (neurons) functioned by means of "tremulations" (an early account of brain waves), and that the two cortical hemispheres processed information differently. The right, he thought, was intuitive and emotional, while the left was more "rational". His holistic picture of how consciousness emerges as the synthesis of these two faculties is sophisticated even today.

In a tripartite model of consciouness, the Mandukya Upanishad shows us that sleep and dreaming exist on a continuum with walking consciousness. The well-trained yogi can negotiate all of the transformations of consciousness in a state called the turiya. The work of Carl Jung and Stanislav Grof are brought into relationship with a consciousness and brain-wave morphology to esplore Jung's idea of "the self-liberating power of the introverted mind."

Biofeedback can be seen as an example of a larger instance of Silberer's "Autosymbolic" aspect of the unconscious, and discussion of (exercises in) guided imagery and being presented. The presention concludes with a neurofeedback evaluation of Joseph Campbell's assertion: "Myth is the secret opening through which the inexhaustible energies of the cosmos pour into human cultural manifestation..."

Applications of Neurofeedback for Domestic Violence: Barbara A. Linde, Ph.D

A correlation was made between Adult ADHD and domestic violence. Another correlation between right-side head injuries and the domestic violence was made. Twenty men, between the ages of 18 and 77 and who were referred by local psychotherapists and courts, were trained using EEG Spectrum equipment. Training strategies and outcome will be discussed.

30270 Rancho Viejo Rd., Ste C, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 714-248-7411 F 714-248-7511 DRMIKE49@aol.com

This talk will discuss the important criteria that Dr. Linden has developed over the past 9 years to select the ADD clients who will be the most and least successful in Neurofeedback training.

The Complete ADD Testing & Treatment Workshop Mike Linden

Selection of ADD candidates for Neurofeedback training and monitoring the NF process to ensure the most success will be presented.