What's New in Neurofeedback

A Monthly Summary of News and Events

Vol. 1 No. 7 - July 1998

This newsletter is sponsored by EEG Spectrum International, Inc.,
a leader in providing clinical service and training professionals.

Past issues are available at www.eegspectrum.com/newsletter/
Information on how to subscribe or cancel a subscription appear at the end.
The opinions related in this newsletter reflect those of the author only.
Copyright (C) 1998 by David Alan Kaiser. All rights reserved.


  • Announcements - Neurofeedback in the Schools; New clinicians / new offices
  • In the Spotlight - Evidence for Neurofeedback Efficacy Revisited
  • News & Reviews - Books, papers, popular media, of interest
  • Online Dialogue - Newsgroups, online news
  • Offline Dialogue - Conferences, training courses
  • Last Word -             - Circumventing consciousness

    •  

    Announcements

    Neurofeedback in the Schools

    More online publishing

    Stimulus Conditioned Autonomic Response Suppression: a Behavioural Therapy (l968)

    by Douglas Quirk

    New Neurofeedback Clinicians / New Offices

    Steve Kassell, MFCC
23504 Lyons Ave  Suite 402  
Newhall  CA  91321   
(805) 259-3704

Jeffrey Wilson, Ph.D. 
300 Old Newport Blvd  
Newport Beach  CA  92663-4121 
(714) 548-0885

Jarvin R. Heiman, MD, PhD
2425 Colorado Blvd., Suite 208
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 397-6507  Fax: 805-640-9933
Email:  occams_penn@thevine.net 

Doris Karras
4717 Dogwood Ave.
Seal Beach, CA 90740
(562) 493-8868  F-8898

Peter Van Deusen
Attention Development Programs
1956 Lower Roswell Rd Suite C  
Marietta  GA  30068
(770) 971-4969

Peter Van Deusen
Attention Development Programs
3957 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 202  
Norcross  GA  30092 
(770) 441-2555

Mark Chamberlain, Ph.D.
950 Hillview Drive  
Rexburg  ID  83440-3831 
(208) 359-1490
Email: chamberlainm@ricks.edu

David Mahoney, Ph.D.
3121 Wall Street  
Lexington  KY  40513-1711  
(606) 223-6700

Wiley Miller, Ph.D.
University of Missouri Counseling Center
Parker Hall   
Columbia MO  65211  
(573) 882-0763


    T. Nick Fenger, Ph.D. 
St Joseph's Home
4753 S. Grand Avenue  
St. Louis  MO 63111-1409  
(314) 481-9121

Mary Jo Sabo, MPA
 Biofeedback Consultants, Inc. 
15A Perlman Drive
Spring Valley, NY 10977
(914) 356-2392; F 426-1545
Email:  MJSOM@classic.msn.com

Julie Weiner, M.S.
1 Shonnard Terrace  
Yonkers  NY  10701-1970  
(914) 633-2991

Carla Bertke, Ph.D.
Rehabilitation Center for Neuro Development
850 S. Main St
Piqua, OH 45356-3836
(937) 773-7630

Dane Nielsen, Ph.D.
Counseling Works
28 Mt. Sheridan Estates  
Lawton  OK  73501  
(580) 585-0223

Kana Suppaiah
515 SW Bankcroft St.
Portland, OR 97201
(503) 243-3810

Precision Neurofeedback Centers 
Jim Smith, President; Dr. John Millerman, Clinical Dir.
1825 E. Plano Parkway, Suite 180
Plano, TX 75074-8502
(972)422-1297  Fax (972) 881-7410
Email: jfsmith@iamerica.net

Sheila Martel
Biofeedback Therapies
Austin, TX 78681
(512) 266-1475
Email: benf@eden.com

     

     

    In the Spotlight

    Evidence for Neurofeedback Efficacy Revisited

    Subscriptions to this newletter have tripled in 3 months so I thought a quasi-replay of one of the original Spotlighted issues was in order. One of the striking aspects of neurofeedback is its "diagnostic blindess" -- it appears to work on any number of mental health and physiological conditions. For those who argue that neurofeedback is controversial except for X condition (be it ADHD, epilepsy, or Double-Y syndrome), I'd say that a second look at the other conditions affected by training may provide you with some insight into the efficacy of neurofeedback. I now believe, for instance, as I review the range of human behavior encompassed by the list below, that all mental health conditions are merely motoric disorders disguised as cognition and emotion. Of course I have to pitch back into phylogeny to discuss my model; still, it might explain why training the motor system (C3, Cz, or C4) seems to kick the rest of the mental apparatus back online. Then again, the brain is so interconnected that to act on one system is to affect them all.

    There is published evidence of neurofeedback efficacy (SMR/Beta and/or alpha-theta training) for the following conditions:

    All of the above have one or more treatments supported by medical professionals that are either ineffective and/or associated with significant side effects. A recent LA death associated with aversion therapy for alcoholism (the treatment was not unlike what goes on in Tijuana bars during spring break) shows that for many the Dark Ages never ended.

    Alcoholism

  • Alpha-theta brainwave training and beta-endorphin levels in alcoholics
    Eugene G. Peniston and Paul J. Kulkosk, 1989  Biofeedback & Self-Regulation 14 (2): 83-88 (Jun 1989)
  • Alpha-theta brainwave training and beta-endorphin levels in alcoholics.
    Peniston EG, Kulkosky PJ  Alcohol Clin Exp Res 13 (2): 271-279 (Apr 1989)
  • Alcoholic personality and alpha-theta brainwave training
    Eugene G. Peniston and Paul J. Kulkosky, 1990
  • Alterations in EEG amplitude, personality factors, and brain electrical mapping after alpha-theta brainwave training: a controlled case study of an alcoholic in recovery.
    Fahrion SL, Walters ED, Coyne L, Allen T  Alcohol Clin Exp Res 16 (3): 547-552 (Jun 1992)
  • Alpha-theta brainwave neurofeedback training: an effective treatment for male and female alcoholics with depressive symptoms.
    Saxby E, Peniston EG  Journal of Clin Psychol 51 (5): 685-693 (Sep 1995)
  • Alpha/Theta Training of 19 Diné (Navaho) Alcohol Drinkers
    Matthew J. Kelley, Ph.D., (Mar 1998)

    • ADHD

  • A Comparison of EEG Biofeedback and Psychostimulants in Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders
    Thomas R. Rossiter, PhD & Theodore J. La Vaque, PhD, 1995
  • A Controlled Study of the Effects of EEG Biofeedback on Cognition and Behavior of Children With Attention Deficit Disorders and Learning Disabilities
    Michael Linden, Ph.D.; Thomas Habib, Ph.D. Vesna Radojevic, Ph.D.
  • Neocortical dynamics: implications for understanding the role of neurofeedback and related techniques for the enhancement of attention.
    Lubar JF.; Appl Psychophysiol Biofeedback. 1997 Jun; 22(2): 111-126.
  • Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Pharmacotherapy and beyond.
    Tan G, et al.; Postgrad Med. 1997 May; 101(5): 201-204.
  • Evaluation of the effectiveness of EEG neurofeedback training for ADHD in a clinical setting as measured by changes in T.O.V.A. scores, behavioral ratings, and WISC-R performance.
    Lubar JF, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1995 Mar; 20(1): 83-99.
  • Discourse on the development of EEG diagnostics and biofeedback for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders.
    Lubar JF.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1991 Sep; 16(3): 201-225.
  • Electroencephalographic biofeedback of SMR and beta for treatment of attention deficit disorders in a clinical setting.
    Lubar JO, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1984 Mar; 9(1): 1-23.
  • EMG and EEG biofeedback training in the treatment of a 10-year-old hyperactive boy with a developmental reading disorder.
    Tansey MA, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1983 Mar; 8(1): 25-37.
  • EEG and behavioral changes in a hyperkinetic child concurrent with training of the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR): a preliminary report.
    Lubar JF, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1976 Sep; 1(3): 293-306.
  • EEG Biofeedback Training for Attention Deficit Disorder, Specific Learning Disabilities, and Associated Conduct Problems
    Siegfried Othmer, Susan F. Othmer, & Clifford S. Marks September 1991
  • Visual-Motor Integration and its Relation to EEG Neurofeedback Brain Wave Patterns, Reading, Spelling, and Arithmetic Achievement in Attention Deficit Disorders and Learning Disabled Students
    T. Nick Fenger, Ph.D.
  • Neurofeedback and cognitive training in the amelioration of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
    Nash, J.K., & Shakelford, A. (1995). Presentation at 1995 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Scottsdale, AZ.
  • The use of EEG biofeedback for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
    Samples, J. (1994). Presentation at AAPB Conference, 1994.
  • Ten-Year Stability of EEG Biofeedback Results for a Hyperactive Boy Who Failed Fourth Grade Perceptually Impaired Class
    Michael A. Tansey, PhD, 1993
  • Ten-year stability of EEG biofeedback results for a hyperactive boy who failed fourth grade perceptually impaired class.
    Tansey MA  Biofeedback & Self-Regulation 18 (1): 33-44 (Mar 1993)
  • Operant conditioning of EEG rhythms and ritalin in the treatment of hyperkinesis.
    Shouse MN, Lubar JF  Biofeedback & Self-Regulation 4 (4): 299-312 (Dec 1979)
  • Training results with ADD clients: Is neurofeedback training for attention deficit disorder in adults as effective as similar training carried out with children.
    Thompson, L., & Thompson, M. (1997). Presentation at 1997 Winter Conference on Brain Function/EEG, Palm Springs CA.
  • EEG biofeedback training for attention deficit disorder and other behavioral disorders.
    Toomim, M., Ibric, V., & Othmer, Siegfried (1994). Presentation at 1994 California Psychological Association Convention, San Francisco CA.

    • Autism

  • EEG biofeedback for the attention problems of autism: A case study.
    Cowan, J.D.Presentation at AAPB Conference, 1994.
  • Positive outcome with neurofeedback treatment in a case of mild autism.
    Sichel, A.G., Fehmi, L.G., and Goldstein, D.M. (1995). Journal of Neurotherapy, 1, (1) 60-64.

    • Autoimmune Dysfunctions

  • Neurofeedback and Immune Response (HIV)
    Gary J. Schummer, Ph.D., M. Crane, L. Wong, C. Aguirre, 1995
  • Neurofeedback and Lyme Disease: A Clinical Application of the Five Phase Model of CNS Functional Transformation
    Valdeane W. Brown, Ph.D., Hermitage, PA, 1995

    • Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

  • EEG biofeedback as a treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome: a controlled case report.
    James LC, et al.; Behav Med. 1996; 22(2): 77-81.
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome: Its response to 14 Hz EEG neurotherapy training.
    Tansey, M.A. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.
  • Neurofeedback and chronic fatigue syndrome: New findings with respect to diagnosis and treatment.
    Tansey, M.A. (1993).The CFIDS Chronicle, 9, 30-32.
  • A controlled study of the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) with 13-14 Hz beta band electroencephalograph (EEG) biofeedback.
    Lowe, F. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.

    • Depression & Bipolar Disorder

  • Alpha-theta brainwave neurofeedback training: an effective treatment for male and female alcoholics with depressive symptoms.
    Saxby E, et al.; J Clin Psychol. 1995 Sep; 51(5): 685-693.
  • EEG Biofeedback Training for Bipolar Disorder
    Othmer, S. & Othmer, S. (1995). Presentation at 1995 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Scottsdale, AZ.

    • Epilepsy

  • Remediation of Nocturnal Seizures by EEG Biofeedback
    Jonathan Walker, M.D.,1995
  • Neuropsychological assessment of subjects with uncontrolled epilepsy: effects of EEG feedback training.
    Lantz DL, Sterman MB  Epilepsia 29 (2): 163-171 (Mar 1988)
  • The Response of a case of petit mal epilepsy to EEG sensorimotor rhythm biofeedback training.
    Tansey MA  Int J Psychophysiol 3 (2): 81-84 (Nov 1985)
  • EEG operant conditioning in intractable epileptics.
    Lubar JF, Shabsin HS, Natelson SE, Holder GS, Whitsett SF, Pamplin WE, Krulikowski DI  Arch Neurol 38 (11): 700-704 (Nov 1981)
  • Quantitative analysis of training, sleep EEG and clinical response to EEG operant conditioning in epileptics.
    Sterman MB, Shouse MN  Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol 49 (5-6): 558-576 (Sep 1980)
  • Sensorimotor rhythm feedback training and epilepsy: some methodological and conceptual issues.
    Quy RJ, Hutt SJ, Forrest S  Biol Psychol 9 (2): 129-149 (Sep 1979)
  • EEG feedback training of epileptic patients: clinical and electroencephalographic analysis.
    Kuhlman WN  Electroencephalogr Clin Neurophysiol 45 (6): 699-710 (Dec 1978)
  • Effects of central cortical EEG feedback training on incidence of poorly controlled seizures.
    Sterman MB, Macdonald LR  Epilepsia 19 (3): 207-222 (Jun 1978)
  • Operant conditioning of the EEG in two patients with epilepsy: methodologic and clinical considerations.
    Finley WW  Pavlov J Biol Sci 12 (2): 93-111 (Apr 1977)
  • Effects of sham feedback following successful SMR training in an epileptic: follow-up study.
    Finley WW  Biofeedback & Self-Regulation 1 (2): 227-235 (Jun 1976)
  • Reduction of seizures and normalization of the EEG in a severe epileptic following sensorimotor biofeedback training: preliminary study.
    Finley WW, Smith HA, Etherton MD  Biol Psychol 2 (3): 189-203 (1975)
  • Predictive factors for controlling seizures using a behavioural approach.
    Andrews DJ, et al.; Seizure. 1992 Jun; 1(2): 111-116.
  • EEG biofeedback and relaxation training in the control of epileptic seizures.
    Tozzo CA, et al.; Int J Psychophysiol. 1988 Aug; 6(3): 185-194.
  • A double-blind investigation of the relationship between seizure activity and the sleep EEG following EEG biofeedback training.
    Whitsett SF, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1982 Jun; 7(2): 193-209.
  • EEG biofeedback: physiological behavior modification.
    Sterman MB.; Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 1981; 5(3): 405-412.
  • Behavioral management of epileptic seizures following EEG biofeedback training of the sensorimotor rhythm.
    Lubar JF, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1976 Mar; 1(1): 77-104.
  • Reduction of epileptic seizures through EEG biofeedback training.
    Seifert AR, et al.; Biol Psychol. 1975 Nov; 3(3): 157-184.
  • Neurophysiologic and clinical studies of sensorimotor EEG biofeedback training: some effects on epilepsy.
    Sterman MB.; Semin Psychiatry. 1973 Nov; 5(4): 507-525.

    • Learning Disabilities

  • The effects of bilateral EEG biofeedback on verbal, visual-spatial and creative skills in learning disabled male adolescents.
    Cunningham, M.D., & Murphy, P.J. (1981). Journal of Learning Disabilities, 14, 204-208.
  • Specificity of EEG Biofeedback for Cognitive Deficits
    David A. Kaiser, Ph.D.   Presented at 5th Annual Winter Conference on Brain Function/EEG, Modification & Training, Palm Springs, CA, Feb 21-25,1997
  • A controlled study of the effects of EEG biofeedback on cognition and behavior of children with attention deficit disorder and learning disabilities.
    Linden M, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1996 Mar; 21(1): 35-49.
  • EEG sensorimotor rhythm biofeedback training: some effects on the neurologic precursors of learning disabilities.
    Tansey MA.; Int J Psychophysiol. 1984 Feb; 1(2): 163-177.
  • Wechsler (WISC-R) Changes Following Treatment of Learning Disabilities via EEG Biofeedback Training in a Private Practice Setting
    Michael A. Tansey, PhD, 1991
  • Righting the rhythms of reason: EEG biofeedback training as a therapeutic modality in a clinical office setting.
    Tansey, M.A. (1990). Medical Psychotherapy: An International Journal, 3, 57-68.
  • Brainwave signatures--an index reflective of the brain's functional neuroanatomy: Further findings on the effect of EEG sensorimotor rhythm biofeedback training on the neurologic precursors of learning disabilities.
    Tansey, M.A. (1985). International Journal of Psychophysiology, Nov, 3 , 85-99.

    • Chronic Pain

  • Biofeedback assisted attention training: Open Focus Workshop.
    Fehmi, L. (1987).Psychotherapy in Private Practice, 5, 47-49.
  • EEG biofeedback training for chronic pain.
    Othmer, S., & Othmer, S.F. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.

    • Sleep Disorders

  • The treatment of psychophysiologic insomnia with biofeedback: a replication study.
    Hauri PJ, Percy L, Hellekson C, Hartmann E, Russ D  Biofeedback & Self-Regulation 7 (2): 223-235 (Jun 1982)
  • Treating psychophysiologic insomnia with biofeedback.
    Hauri P  Arch Gen Psychiatry 38 (7): 752-758 (Jul 1981)

    • Stroke

  • Neurotherapy for stroke rehabilitation: a single case study.
    Rozelle GR, et al.; Biofeedback Self Regul. 1995 Sep; 20(3): 211-228.
  • A controlled study of EEG neurofeedback and physical therapy with pediatric stroke, age seven months to age fifteen, occurring prior to birth.
    Ayers, M.E. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.

    • raumatic Brain Injury

  • Controlled study of EEG neurofeedback training and clinical psychotherapy for right hemispheric closed head injury.
    Ayers, M.A. (1993). Presentation at 1993 AAPB Conference.
  • Neurofeedback therapy recovery from some cognitive deficits secondary to mild head injury after neurofeedback therapy: A single case controlledstudy.
    Byers, A. (1995). Presentation at 1995 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Scottsdale, AZ.
  • Neurofeedback in the treatment of mild closed head injury.
    Hoffman, D., & Stockdale, S. (1995). Presentation at 1995 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Scottsdale, AZ.
  • Neurofeedback in closed head injury: A multiple case design study.
    Salerno, J. (1997). Presentation at 1997 Association of Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback, San Diego CA.
  • 14 Hz EEG neurofeedback as a treatment for cerebellar atrophy.
    Tansey, M.A. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.
  • Vertebro-basilary insufficiency and neurofeedback.
    Weiler, E.W.J., Schumann, J.M., & Brill, K. (1994). Presentation at 1994 Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation, Las Vegas NV.

    • Tourette's

  • A simple and a complex tic (Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome): their response to EEG sensorimotor rhythm biofeedback training.
    Tansey MA.; Int J Psychophysiol. 1986 Jul; 4(2): 91-97.

    • DK

     

     

    News & Reviews

    NEW BOOKS

    Inattentional Blindness

    by Arien Mack and Irvin Rock
    296 pp., MIT Press, $37.50

    The authors argue against the concept of "preattentional perception" -- that by merely opening one's eyes, we see everything in our field of view. Instead they claim that there is no conscious perception of the visual world without attention to it.

    For more information, see [http://mitpress.mit.edu/book-home.tcl?isbn=0262133393]
    Order from Amazon.com

     

    The Emotional Brain : The Mysterious Underpinnings of Emotional Life

    by Joseph Ledoux
    384 pages, Simon and Schuster
    Not a new book, just newly reprinted in paperback. $11.20 from Amazon.com

    Describes recent neurological and neuroscientific research on the nature and origins of emotion. Concentrating on the basic emotion and conditioning of fear in rats, he offers data and theories on how the brain handles extremely traumatic experiences.

    For more information, see [www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0684836599/]

     

    JOURNAL PAPERS

    Clinical utility of the Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) in the diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

    Forbes GB
    J Clin Psychol 1998 Jun;54(4):461-476
    The TOVA was able to distinguish between children with ADHD and other clinical diagnoses (typically using the criterion of any one TOVA variable 1.5 or greater standard deviations from normal means). Such a criterion correctly identified 80% ADHD cases and 72% of those without attention deficit disorder. Cases misclassified by teacher ratings were often correctly classified by the TOVA and conversely.

     

    Different temporal stability and partial independence of EEG asymmetries from different locations: implications for laterality research.

    Papousek I, Schulter G
    Int J Neurosci 1998 Feb;93(1-2):87-100
    Reliability analyses in 60 right-handed males recorded during rest and stimulation conditions at two separate sessions (2-4 weeks apart) showed partial independence of activation asymmetries for different functional areas. Long-term stability of orbitofrontal asymmetries were markedly lower than that of dorsolateral, temporal, and parietal scores. The authors concluded that anterior and posterior EEG asymmetries are largely independent measures of cortical laterality.

     

    Frontal systems dysfunction in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities.

    Lazar JW, Frank Y
    J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 1998;10(2):160-167
    Abnormalities of frontal lobe tests (e.g., tests of attention, inhibition, working memory, motor learning, and problem solving) are not exclusive ADHD characteristics and are also present in LD children, implying a strong connection between centers of "processing" and centers of "executive" functions.

     

    Learning disability, attention-deficit disorder, and language impairment as outcomes of prematurity: a longitudinal descriptive study.

    Cherkes-Julkowski M
    J Learn Disabil 1998 May;31(3):294-306
    A higher-than-expected percentage (75%) of preterm children exhibit learning disabilities, attention-deficit disorder (ADD), language impairment, mild neurologic impairment, and general school concerns by fifth grade, compared to full-term children. Early developmental patterns reflected differences in attention deployment as early as the 13th month.

     

    Does ADHD affect the course of substance abuse? Findings from a sample of adults with and without ADHD.

    Wilens TE, Biederman J, Mick E
    Am J Addict 1998;7(2):156-163
    Effect of ADHD on recovery from psychoactive substance use disorder (PSUD) was examined in 130 adults with ADHD and 71 non-ADHD adults. Although PSUD remission rates were the same for both groups (80%), ADHD was associated with a longer, duration of PSUD and a significantly slower remission rate. ADHD appears to be a risk factor for early initiation of substance abuse.

    MEDIA REPORTS

  • Parade magazine ran an article on Neurofeedback Jun 28, 1998
    "Biofeedback has been around since the '60s, but computers have improved the technique and made it more powerful. In addition to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder...biofeedback is being used to treat such problems as closed head injuries ..."

  • Portable Computing magazine ran an article on Neurofeedback July, 1998 titled ""Feeding Your Head"
    "One of the most promising findings...is how amenable the brain is to effecting change in its own function if only it is given the appropriate clues," says Dr. Siegfried Othmer, Phd., one of the pioneers in the field. "Why shouldn't the brain be able to adapt to new information about itself! It's called learning. That's what our brain does well." And, once the brain "learns" how to regulate itself to function normally, it tends to retain that ability just as it does any other new skill...

  • KABC-TV (Los Angeles) ran a segment on Optimal Performance and Neurofeedback Jun 9, 1998
    For 10 years Ed Galvan was a pro golfer who needed an executive day job to pay the bills. Then he discovered EEG Biofeedback. "After the very first session I was able to focus better than at any time in my life," Ed says. "Whatever physical ability I had didn't change. What changed was my ability to focus, to devote 100 percent of my attention to the task at hand, to sustain my emotions at an even keel for 18 holes..."

  • Country Living's Healthy Living July issue has an article on Neurofeedback for ADD.
    "Using EEG assessment equipment, experts have found that children with ADD exhibit a different brainwave pattern, with too many slow, sleepy, low-frequency brain waves known as theta, and not enough alert, focused, high-frequency brain waves known as beta. It is thought that with this surfeit of theta waves, ADD children suffer from low arousal, and act out as a way to keep themselves from drifting off. "

    OF INTEREST

    The 1998 AAAPB Conference in Sydney, Australia

    At the Australian AAPB Conference, Siegfried Othmer, Ph.D., of EEG Spectrum International, presented the opening address with the topic: The Future for Self-Regulation Modalities. The talk proposed that we are entering the golden age of the field of mental health. This golden age will be characterized by a shift toward an optimal performance or mental fitness model, and away from rigid diagnostic categories of the DSM.

    The self-regulation modalities are to be seen in the context of a general thrust toward physiologically-based approaches to wellness, which include, among others, psycho-pharmacology, psychosurgery, nutritionals and supplements, acupuncture, and bodywork. The reorientation toward a fitness, educational, or training model means a realignment of income strategies toward cash-based practice, away from third-party payers, for the field of mental health as a whole. Whereas in the near-term clinicians may find it necessary to live within the confines of a disease- and reimbursement-driven model, the thrust will be toward optional or voluntary training in search of improved mental performance on a self-pay basis to meet educational, professional or performance goals.

    It was proposed that addressing the bioelectrical domain of neuroregulation with neurofeedback will ultimately have a coequal role with neurochemical interventions. This new paradigm will have the characteristics of a scientific revolution, in that it will require a special expertise and new kind of mastery that cannot currently be acquired through the mainstream curricula. The field will acquire its own literature, and even its own vocabulary, and develop a distinct professional group with this new competence (although the field will not become a separate profession). It was suggested that there is a burden on this new professional community to tolerate a divergence of views and a variety of practice models. Every tentative thrust toward cooperation among professionals should be encouraged.

    Other talks at the Conference were by Professor Richard Silberstein of the Brain Sciences Institute at Swinburne University in Melbourne; by Anna Orgill of the Serfontain Clinic in Sydney; by Bob Leark of TOVA; by Sue Othmer, and by Tom Allen.

     

    Online Dialogue

    Talking to Strangers

    Two interesting developments this month. In the EEG Spectrum International listserver for professionals, there was some chatter about EEG biofeedback practices being essentially a cult-like organization. I never took it seriously, nor did most (I think), but if you work with the brain, circumventing consciousness, some people may suspect sinister motives. The most active discussion about neurofeedback this month was from, of all things, the Scientology newsgroup: alt.religion.scientology

    The other interesting development was discussion in the alt.config group for the creation of a biofeedback/neurofeedback discussion group. It's about time!

    Other newsgroups had a smattering of neurofeedback talk:alt.med.fibromyalgia, bit.listserv.tbi-suppurt, alt.support.attn-deficit,sci.med.prostate.prostatitis, alt.support.tinnitus

    Follow the threads yourself at http://search.dejanews.com/dnquery.xp?QRY=neurofeedback

    Online News

    One good thing about the publication of the Parade article this month: It motivated a noggle of clinicians to get information about their practice online: Note: (As "herd" is to sheep and "flock" is to birds, a "noggle" refers to any group of similarly-minded individuals who are often overheard discussing the old noggin')

    • Glen P. Martin, LPCC
      15 years of biofeedback experience. Our goal is to help people decrease or eliminate their dependency on medications through Neurotherapy, a safe non-invasive computerized technique for training the brain to self regulate in order to improve focus, attention, and energy level. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/martin.htm

    • Alan Bachers Ph.D., Mark Brown, Ph.D.
      The Center for Better Living: State-of-the-art neurofeedback with our 25 years of psychotherapy experience in suburban Cleveland, Ohio. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/bachers.htm

    • Mary Jo Sabo
      Our mission is to provide comprehensive EEG Biofeedback services and equipment to health care professionals, educational providers, and consumers worldwide. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/sabo.htm

    • Rosemary Boon
      A private practice catering to the needs of children and adults with Learning Disabilities and ADD/ADHD. A unique blend of psychology, effective researched based teaching methods and state- of-the-art multimodal therapies. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/boon.htm

    • Clark Elliott, Ph.D.
      A private practice that has provided treatment for a broad range of conditions. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/elliott.htm

    • Jarvin Heiman, MD, Ph.D.
      As an integrative psychiatrist utilizing numerous tools, including psychotherapy, EMDR, and nutritional medicine, I am finding that the power and potential of EEG Biofeedback is becoming a centerpiece of my practice www.eegspectrum.com/affil/heiman.htm

    • Neil King, Jr., Ph.D.
      Providing psychotherapy and evaluation services to children, adolescents, and adults for 25 years and applied psychophysiology services for 15 years www.eegspectrum.com/affil/king.htm

    • Lynda Kirk, M.A.
      Austin Biofeedback Center has a caring and experienced team of clinicians who are certified and/or licensed in biofeedback/neurofeedback and adjunctive therapies such as psychology, psychotherapy, counseling, social work, and chiropractic. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/kirk.htm

    • Joy Lunt, R.N.
      Offering solutions to improve treatment-resistant conditions (e.g., attention disorders, chronic pain, sleep disorders, depression). Taking care of the "whole" person--caring for more than the physical body. www.eegspectrum.com/affil/lunt.htm

     

     

    Offline Dialogue

    EEG Biofeedback Training Course for Professionals

    EEG Spectrum International presents the emerging field from a perspective well-grounded in clinical phenomenology, but it is also based on a neurophysiological model of efficacy originally proposed by M. Barry Sterman, Ph.D., and recently augmented by Andrew Abarbanel, M.D. The clinical database and the model combine to yield a variety of protocols which have proven to be effective in the treatment of behavior, mood, pain, attention and learning problems, seizure disorder and the consequences of brain injury. A coherent picture emerges about how protocol choices may be made in the face of complex presenting symptoms.

    The training also includes the all-important practicum section which focuses on actual operation and use of instrumentation. Additionally, opportunity is provided outside the formal curriculum for practitioners to experience training on themselves as well as discussing professional issues, marketing, and the particulars of establishing a financially successful practice based on this modality.

    Faculty: Siegfried Othmer, Ph.D., BCIAC; Susan Othmer, BCIAC; M. Barry Sterman, Ph.D.; Nancy White, Ph.D. ; Julian Isaacs, Ph.D.; Pat Fields, Psy.D.; David Kaiser, Ph.D.; Martin Wuttke, BCIAC; William Scott, BSW, CCDP


    LOCATION DATES
    Encino, CA     (Adv. Practicum) Jul 11, 1998
    Encino, CA     Jul 16-20, 1998
    Seattle, WA     (Adv. Practicum) Aug 5, 1998
    Seattle, WA     Aug 6-10, 1998
    Encino, CA     Aug 20-24, 1998
    Boston, MA     (Adv. Practicum) Sep 9, 1998
    Boston, MA     Sep 10-14, 1998

    TOPICS COVERED
    EEG Biofeedback Theory: Neurophysiological Basis; Research History
    Clinical Applications: Assessment, Protocol Selection, Practicum & Case Review
    Specialty Applications: For Behavior Modification & Performance Enhancement
    COST (5-Day Course): $895.00
    Additional Attendees from Same Facility: 30% discount     Reattendees: $200.00

    denniscampbell@eegspectrum.com To enroll, contact Dennis Campbell or call EEG Spectrum International at 800-789-3456 or (818) 788-2083.
    Please include your name and phone number in all email messages.


    Conferences for Neurofeedback Clinicians & Researchers

    CONFERENCELOCATION DATES
    Amer Psychological Assoc. (APA) San Francisco, CA August 14-18
    Soc for the Study of Neuronal Regulation (see below) Austin, TX September 10 - 13
    FutureHealth 1999 (see below) Palm Springs, CA February 5-9, 1999

    1998 SSNR Conference in Austin Texas, September 10 - 13

    "CALL FOR PAPERS": The Society for the Study of Neuronal Regulation (SSNR) is seeking original research papers for presentation at the 1998 SSNR Conference in Austin Texas, September 10 - 13. Entries need to be submitted by via e-mail, fax, or regular mail to David Trudeau, M.D., SSNR Program Chair as soon as possible (deadline by 1 August 1998). 

    David L. Trudeau, MD
SSNR Program Chair
#4402 168 E. 6th St.
St. Paul, MN 55101
Fax 612.725.2292   Voice 612.298.9773
trude003@maroon.tc.umn.edu

      Selected Speakers
    • Bob Thatcher, Ph.D. New data on qEEG and qMRI findings in traumatic brain injury...
    • Jay Gunkelman, QEEGT. Evaluating the frontal lobes in affective and attentional disorders with QEEG and EP...
    • Joel Lubar Ph.D. More new QEEG data about ADHD and response to therapy.
    • Barry Sterman, Ph.D. QEEG - what’s wrong with this picture?
    • David Trudeau MD. Alpha -theta isn’t the only neurotherapy for substance use disorders
    • Bill Hudspeth, Ph.D. Ontogeny of Neuroelectric Images (NEIs)
    • George von Hilsheimer, Ph.D. The Work of D. Quirk, implications for Neurofeedback.
    • John Nash, Ph.D. Case study: twin boys with ADHD, one of whom also has PTSD.
    • D. Corydon Hammond, Ph.D.  EEG Patterns Associated with High Hypnotizability: Practical Clinical Implications
    • Johnathan Cowan, Ph.D. The "IN ALL" protocol - data from a case series.
    • David Kaiser:  Attentional synchrony: A novel method to index attention with qEEG.
    • Bill Scott: Data on ongoing addictions study.

      •  

    Workshops galore

    For more information, see [www.ssnr.com/98-info.htm]

    1999 FutureHealth Conference: Palm Springs, February 5-9, 1999

      Schedule
    • Advanced Winter Brain meeting: (5 days, 2/5-9/99)
    • EEG Foundations Course: (1 day, 2/5/9)
    • Optimal Functioning Meeting: (3 days, 2/3-5/99)

    For additional information and updates: bio@Futurehealth.org

    In a related note, the FutureHealth 1998 abstracts are online at http://www.futurehealth.org/97eegab1.htm

     

     

    Last Word

    Circumventing consciousness

    As the 21st century rolls in, expect more electrodes in your future. Besides biofeedback, qEEG technologies have enormous potential in supplementing and possibly supplanting current psychological measures and modalities. The reason for this can be reduced to a handful of strengths or advantages over the current host of subjective and behavioral aproaches. Subjective measures typically involve questions -- surveys, questionnaires, rating scales, forced choices -- and behavioral measures involve keypads, triggers, stopwatches, and cameras. One measures the mind's output, the other the body's. Then there is psychophysiology -- the brain's output-- a middle ground.

    An interesting question (to neurofeedback clinicians) would be whether the strengths of qEEG exist in EEG biofeedback and cross over into mental health treatment. There are five general properties of qEEG that are advantageous compared to most subjective or behavioral measures. These are:

    1. high temporal resolution
    2. moderate functional resolution
    3. passive (unobtrusive) measure
    4. intrinsic & quantitative responses (not arbitrary or conventional)
    5. circumvents consciousness

    I don't have room to go into each of these properties, but the last one should have caught your eye: EEG circumvents consciousness. The success of alpha-theta training for PTSD and other conditions may be due to its ability to suppress self-consciousness. Temporarily suppressed, the individual now has the freedom to process traumatic events freely, without attacks of emotions or anxiety. Many of the affective disorders described in DSM-IV might be better understood as faulty consciousness which have become "calcified" through great use until such short-circuits are essentially hard-wired throughout the brain. In other words, consciousness may not only interfere with mental health treatments, but may be the primary source of such conditions. This may be why children suffer from certain mental health conditions but not others. Young minds are only equipped with an early sense of self-consciousness, if any, as they retain non-self-conscious elements such as egocentrism and non-private mentality.

    It would be very interesting to know what mental health problems were suffered by other individuals with less developed forms of self-consciousness such as Homo erectus or Homo sapien neanderthalensis. (There would seem to be a new field of study in that question - psychoanthropology.)

    Pharmocological modalities also circumvent consciousness -- and perhaps herein lies much of their success. They too have modest functional resolution and can be unobtrusive and intrinsic. Perhaps the only advantage EEG biofeedback might have over chemicals is a temporal one, and possibly a slight functional one (at least for awhile), but then again I suspect that EEG has a number of advantages over drugs that my consciousness cannot put into words.

    David Kaiser, Ph.D.

    Future LAST WORDS may contain feedback from readers of this newsletter. Send your feedback to webmaster@eegspectrum.

    Subscription Information

    Each month you will receive this newsletter via email. Each issue includes reviews of recent publications relevant to neurofeedback, updates on new and ongoing research studies, reports in the media, and schedules of upcoming training courses and conference dates. To unsubscribe from this newsletter, email webmaster@eegspectrum.com and include in the body of your message "unsubscribe newsletter"

    If you care to contribute to the list, email the newsletter editor at dakaiser@eegspectrum.com at any time during the month. Include in your email relevant articles, abstracts, web addresses, etc. Contributions may be edited for inclusion in the newsletter and not every contribution may appear in the monthly newsletter