Afternoon Workshops Details

  Winter Brain Meeting
At 2:00 -- #247) Test Presentation Title by Smith-Test, Burton

Friday, Feb. 3  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1400 -- #64) Reward And Inhibit Strategies:  Recent Advances in Theory and Practice by Othmer, Sue
Recent advances in neurofeedback instrumentation and clinical application are allowing us to extend and refine our clinical results. The efficacy of these new techniques challenges our understanding of how our brains perceive and respond to the particular EEG information that we are providing as feedback.   We will discuss the very different roles of rewards and inhibits, and how they relate to normal regulatory rhythms versus abnormal disregulated EEG activity. We will consider different clinical options in combining inhibit bands and optimizing reward frequencies with one and two-channel EEG training. We will also discuss the role of bipolar training in desynchronizing EEG activity and stabilizing brain function, and the integration of interhemispheric with single-hemisphere training.    A variety of neurofeedback instrumentation will be used to demonstrate new EEG display and training options, including BioExplorer, BrainMaster and Biograph Infiniti. We will also demonstrate with one or more volunteers the process of optimizing reward frequencies according to the individual’s response to training.  Workshop outline:  1. A developing model of EEG training:   Early work with beta and SMR rewards, theta and EMG inhibits   Event detection versus shaping of EEG  Good and bad frequencies  Activation and arousal  Differing roles of rewards and inhibits  Implications of bipolar training  - phase and synchrony  Desynchronization and stability – large and small scale   2. Clinical applications:  Rewards  Optimizing by arousal  Left/right  Left – right (interhemispheric)  Front/back  Inhibits  Wide inhibits  Targeted inhibits  Multiple inhibits  Windowed inhibits  3. Demonstration:  Display and training options with BioExplorer, BrainMaster, Biograph  One and two-channel options Optimize reward frequency with volunteer subject

At 1400 -- #121) Coherence, Synchrony, and the Rest: Putting it all together with 2-channel training by Collura, Tom
This workshop focuses on concepts, and is applicable to any suitable 2-channel EEG training equipment.  The BrainMaster 2.5SE software will be used for demonstration, and has significant new capabilities that make it possible to perform both simple or complex 2-channel training protocols, using a variety of approaches.  The new capabilities include simultaneous sum- and difference-channel training, live JTFA analysis, and a new “Event Wizard” that makes it possible to build protrocols based on a wide range of variables (amplitude, frequency, coherence, phase, ratios of time or energy, etc).  There is also a new interface to a Macromedia Flash Player that allows users to run predefined or custom displays.  It is also possible to train on live Z-scores, using the interface to the NeuroGuide real-time processor.  These capabilities will be demonstrated and discussed with emphasis on practical clinical protocol design.

At 1400 -- #127) From Neurofeedback to Sleep: Tools and Techniques to Recognize and Manage Insomnia to Enhance Neurofeedback Efficacy by O'Malley, Ed
What is the connection between sleep and neurofeedback training? Is there a relationship between adequate sleep and neurofeedback efficacy? How does one manage the myriad complaints and presentations that accompany insomnia, and know when to refer out? Are there techniques, other than or in addition to neurofeedback, that actually work? What is the State of the Science of Insomnia, according to the NIH?  This workshop is designed to provide the non sleep specialist neurofeedback provider with the tools and techniques necessary to recognize, assess and manage a variety of insomnia complaints with which clients typically present. One rationale for alleviating sleep disturbance in this population is that left unmanaged poor sleep will undermine the effectiveness of neurofeedback training. Additionally, you will learn enough to manage even your difficult insomnia clients rather than needing to refer out.  Time permitting, also presented will be a discussion on the management of Insomnia today as reflected in the recent NIH Statement on State of the Science.     What is insomnia? The most common sleep complaint in adults is insomnia, generally defined as the subjective sense that sleep is difficult to initiate or maintain, or that sleep itself is non-refreshing. Prevalence studies have shown that nearly one-half of the adult population experiences insomnia (30-50% acute problem, 10-15% as a chronic problem).  Many sufferers report daytime consequences similar to those associated with chronic sleep deprivation: fatigue, performance decrements and mood disturbances. The daytime impairments result in poor quality of life, decreased productivity, higher accident rate and increased morbidity with augmented use of medical facilities. These findings present an obvious cause for concern in society.  Treatment: Where possible, treatment should be addressed toward correction of the underlying cause, particularly when there are associated medical/psychiatric issues. Simple changes in routine, living situation and food intake may be effective. In all cases, education regarding the mechanics of sleep, i.e., sleep promoting and interfering behaviors, is important.    Specific treatment regimens are generally implemented in accordance with the time-course of symptoms. Transient insomnia, lasting a few days to a couple of weeks is usually associated with transmeridian travel, a brief illness or stressful event (next day exam or presentation) and hypnotics can be used as the main therapy. The most effective are the newer medications with similar chemical structure or agonist like compounds to  the benzodiazepine class. Short term insomnia, lasting several weeks to a month is usually associated with more traumatic life events that can be negative (death of a loved one, divorce or sudden hospitalization) or positive (marriage, job promotion, birth of a child). Although hypnotic therapy is indicated over the short term, behavioral therapies and education are important to prevent the development of chronic insomnia. The longer insomnia persists, the more complex are the causes and treatment.   Long term or chronic insomnia may last months to years.  There are well-recognized effective behavioral treatments available to address the symptoms of chronic insomnia: sleep restriction, cognitive therapy, relaxation therapies, stimulus control and neuro/biofeedback feedback, generally referred to as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). These therapies have common modes of action and relieve insomnia by either reducing emotional/somatic arousal (cognitive and relaxation therapy, stimulus control, neuro/biofeedback) or improving sleep efficiency (sleep restriction). CBT is typically employed during an 8-10 week program and has been recently shown to be the most beneficial treatment regimen for chronic insomnia by the NIH, with long-term efficacy. The longest controlled trial of any hypnotic is one year and given the chronic persistent nature of insomnia it is unclear of the long-term role of these medications. While recent advances in hypnotic selectivity have provided improved medications, when withdrawn treatment effects are reduced or lost completely. Consequently, hypnotics should not be viewed as the sole source of treatment particularly in the case of chronic insomnia. Rather, medication should be utilized as reinforcement for the educational and behavioral techniques.   NIH Statement on State of the Science 1. Acknowledges for the first time that Insomnia, while comorbid with many other disorders, particularly psychiatric disorders, is a distinct and independent disorder requiring separate, simultaneous management. 2. This statement recognizes the paucity of data on long-term consequences of insomnia and the long-term effects of current therapies. 3. Supports the finding that CBT is the most efficacious therapy at present, particularly in long-term gains, although there is some very new evidence to suggest that newer benzodiazepine-like agonists may be effective for up to one year. 4. Calls for significantly increased and broadened research agenda, including head-to-head comparisons between hypnotics with a CBT group.   What is the relationship of sleep disturbance to neurofeedback efficacy? Clearly, the brain that is not restored by sleep is less apt to perform well under normal circumstances. Since NF efficacy is thought to be dependent upon brain plasticity, and brain plasticity requires normal functional capacities, sleep-deprivation adversely impacts brain plasticity.

At 1400 -- #173) how the brain works by Gunkelman, Jay
Beginning with the anatomy and physiology undelying the genesis of the brain's electrical patterns, we will cover the IFCN's position paper on EEG generators, as well as the structure and function underlying the dymanics of the EEG.  This quickly moving talk will cover material in an understandable manner, even though the material is complex.  The traditional EEG bands and metrics will be covered, though the workshop will impart an understanding that transcends the traditional, and allows understanding of the actual functions that these traditional concepts reflect.  The concept of "subtypes" of various DSM categories will be explored, and the more comprehensive "phenotype" approach will be introduced to replace the older ideas of subtypes.  The workshop will differentiate and identify function in the realm of the mind, and that within the realm of the brain's function.  These two fundamental systems dynamically interact to provide us with our conscious experience.  The current model of mind-brain-consciousness will be the culmination of this short workshop.  The handouts will be via memory stick plug-in (bring your memory stick, or your computer), not paper, to reduce the forestry attrition associated with killing trees to hand off over 300 megabytes of information.

At 1400 -- #240) Peripheral biofeedback with BioGraph Infiniti by Combatalade, Didier
Thought Technology’s ProComp/BioGraph Infiniti is a multimedia biofeedback system capable of integrating a full range of peripheral biofeedback modalities with standard EEG biofeedback practices. The workshop will demonstrate how easy it is to use physiological measures like skin conductance, temperature, respiration, heart rate from EKG or BVP (photoplethysmograph) and EMG to monitor you client’s sympathetic and parasympathetic activity and get a broader understanding of the underlying neurological physiology. 1) Physiological sensors: Overview a. SC b. Temp c. Resp d. EKG or BVP (HRV) e. EMG 2) Key Concepts:  a. Thresholds Above/Below b. Auto-Threshold c. Proportional/inverse proportional feedback 3) Recording Sessions a. Open Display or Script b. Baseline assessment c. Stress Assessment 4) Training a. Session Duration & # of Trials b. Combining physiological measures 5)  Review/Report c. In-session trend report d. Cross-session trend report
Friday, Feb. 3  StoryCon
At 1400 -- #23) Shaman’s Mind, Shaman’s Work, Shaman’s Dialogue by Mehl-Madrona, Lewis
In this workshop, we will explore the perspective shamans (indigenous or aboriginal healers) take on mind, consciousness, health, and illness.  We will compare these perspectives to those of European derived conventional medicine.  We will discus the dialogical process in which the healer engages the spirit of the illness, ancestral spirits, the person’s spirit, the healer’s own helper spirits, and the spirits of place and Nature, to gain information and to enroll them in the healing process.  We will review how shamans know when they are communicating with spirits and what Western culture would consider as alternative explanations.  We will compare this aboriginal way of gaining knowledge with European-derived cultures’ insistence upon external expertise that is codified in categories and algorithms of practice.  We will visit the training of the shaman and how mind is developed within traditional cultures to be able to interact with spiritual and spirit realms.  Shamanic practice requires an open, flexible mind, attuned to several dimensions, in ongoing dialogue with residents of these dimensions, and aimed at finding help for the client – whether a person, community, or ecosystem.  Many Western mindsets would view this story about mind as preposterous, invalid, or even psychotic, yet shamans quietly go about their work in communities where there reputation and livelihood is based upon sufficient success as to be noticed.  We will close by discussing what we can learn from shamanic practice to enrich our own practices.
Friday, Feb. 3  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1600 -- #169) The Autism/Aspergers/ADD Subtype Connection by Linden, Michael

At 1600 -- #204) All You Ever Wanted to Know About HEG by Toomim, Hershel

Friday, Feb. 3  StoryCon
At 1600 -- #7) The Therapeutic Use of Story as an Adjunct in the Counseling Setting by Ballon, Rachel
The objectives/goals of this workshop is to demonstrate how the use of   writing as adjunct in counseling is a powerful technique to reach  individuals unconscious material and liberate repressed emotions.  Mental Health   practitioners will learn how to use these therapeutic writing techniques to give them additional tools to use in the counseling setting which are effective, short term and accessible.  They will also learn how to use therapeutic writing to free certain individuals from psychological blocks and enable them to become unstuck in their lives and relationships.

At 1600 -- #114) Storytelling for Business Success by Strackbein, Sally

Saturday, Feb. 4  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1400 -- #69) Important Variables for Successful Outcomes for Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Applications in Rehabilitation by Brucker, Bernard
It is well known that central nervous system cells in the brain, brain stem and spinal cord are non-replacement structure. As such, patients suffering functional losses from strokes, brain injuries, cerebral palsy and spinal cord injuries are expected to have permanent losses.  While it is known that such patients can have functional improvement after central nervous system damage which is enhanced with traditional therapeutic intervention, recovery usually plateaus in about a year. Recent findings from the neural and behavioral sciences have not only shown that there is long term repair in the central nervous system after damage, but that it is possible for the brain to utilize alternate cell tissue to replace lost or damaged cells. It has also been shown that operant learning techniques utilized at the neural level can result in specific learned control of neural responses that would not occur otherwise. There have been a number of reported applications of Biofeedback and Neurofeedback for restoring function after central nervous system damage. However, there had been mixed results and often when used clinically, the method of reporting does not reflect the standard in the rehabilitation field. As a result, this has diminished the power and legitimacy of these procedures in the eyes of our medical colleagues. This workshop will focus on the important variables that need to be addressed in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback applications in rehabilitation including proper methods for patient assessments, selection of patients, utilization of pre-and post-measurements, data collection, proper report writing and data analysis.  Understanding operant conditioning paradigms as the underlying procedure for effective neural learning and their applications will also be covered. Many individuals facing permanent functional losses due to central nervous system damage do have the neuro potential for greater functional recovery even long term post onset. Biofeedback and Neurofeedback techniques can be extremely powerful in gaining this increase in function through more efficient use of the central nervous system, but only if applied properly. Further, only proper reporting of results will gain the proper recognition of the effects of these techniques.

At 1400 -- #41) with Susan Shor Fehmi; OPEN FOCUS™ AND NEUROFEEDBACK:  THE ROLE OF ATTENTION IN ORCHESTRATING AWARENESS AND BRAIN WAVE ACTIVITY by Fehmi, Les
This workshop is a blend of hypothesis, research,clinical observation, and demonstration.    The relationship between attention and brain wave activity will be described. There is accumulated evidence that attention orchestrates EEG activity and vice versa.  The various types of attention and their corresponding brain activity will be presented.  It will be proposed that objective reality is created through the mechamism of phase relationships between brain waves.  Whole head synchrony is associated with a diffused and immersed type of attention. A demonstration of an attention flexibility enhancing process will be presented, along with a unique form of analog synchrony training.    A fundamental hypothesis is presented in this talk:  Attention types and brain wave activity are reflected in each other.  Attention is the means by which we determine aspects of awareness. Attention types are defined as those processes which control the proximity, scope, speed,  and direction of awareness.  Aspects of attentional behavior can be learned using neurofeedback.  The use of certain combinations of attention types may serve as a vehicle or strategy for managing physiology as well and awareness.  Attention style determines performance and rate of stress dissolution.  Flexibility of attention is a major condition supporting heatlh and well being.  Diffuse and immersed styles of attention support the production of brain wave activity which is synchronous and global, and an awareness  that is expanding and unifying.  Conversely, narrow and objective attention supports the production of asynchronous brain activity, and an awareness that highlights separate and narrow discrimination.  Our sense of self and subject and object are continually created and destroyed as our brain waves oscillate between synchrony and asynchrony.  Certain electric field interference patterns are created at the brain regions where the waves associated with simple awareness and its contents abut.   These interference patterns are hypothesized to serve as the mechanism underlying awareness, and awareness of awareness.  Certain other patterns are mechanisms which dissolve awareness.  Awareness of space plays a pivotal role in various styles of attention.  Resisting the experience of space (which includes resisting silence, timelessness, void or a sense of absence) leads to the accumulation of stress and tension, and can result in many symptoms of disfunction.  Such resistence locks attention and brain waves into rigid patterns of separate and narrow discrimination.  Open Focus exercises to improve attention flexibility will be presented along with a demonstration of instrumentation used for synchrony training.

At 1400 -- #196) Using Non-Linear, Dynamical Measures of Change: Keeping Neurofeedback Training Safe and On Target by Brown, Valdeane
The brain is a non-linear, dynamical (NLD) system; in fact, all of human psychophysiology is best understood in terms of NLD systems theory and control procedures, even though it is comprised of discernible time-frequency events..  This means that neurofeedback training is also non-linear and dynamical, and recognizing that can help us understand some of the pervasive confusions and disagreements in the field as a whole.  We all know, for instance, that subtle changes in many training regimes can hold profound impacts for the client; and we also know that diagnosis, initial presentation and assessment frequently do not adequately predict the response to specific training approaches.  It is also clear that very different training approaches can provide similar outcomes in many situations.  The reality of this diversity of response to various ways of providing neurofeedback training is actually predicted by NLD control theory; and this means that we can use some of the tools developed for understanding NLD systems as a set of effective means to monitor and modify neurofeedback as it is occurring.  In this workshop you will learn how to use two such specific tools to understand: 1. How the process of neurofeedback training is unfolding while it is being done. 2. How the client will likely respond BETWEEN training sessions. 3. And how well the overall training is actually progressing.  You will also learn how these specific techniques were derived mathematically as well as from Mixture Model Independent Component Analysis of successful and non-successful neurofeedback training sessions across a diversity of equipment, clients and training approaches.

At 1400 -- #218) Archetypal Adolescent Development: Controlling the Uncontrollable by Stephenson, Bret
This workshop sets the stage for the following workshop: Teens and  Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness: Why ‘Just Say No’ Just Hasn’t Worked!!.  There is a universal aspect of adolescence that most traditional cultures worked with successfully for thousands of years.  Without the need for incarceration or medication, most societies helped guide their teens into adulthood without the stereotypic drama we associate with modern adolescence.  Adolescence in modern times has an almost pathological, political incorrectness feel to it, as if teens are inherently damaged or broken.  Historically, this is far from the truth.  This workshop will examine the universal, archetypal model of adolescence.  In essence, we’ll explore how adolescence looks cross-culturally and throughout history.  How does, or did, adolescence look at any given time in history, in any culture?  This is of growing importance in modern America with such a growing ethnic diversity to work with.  Many approaches developed for one group of teens often will fail with another.  Understanding archetypal dynamics helps youth workers create models and programs that are most effective for the most teens.  Many modern youth workers do not have an accurate understanding of the universal adolescent developmental dynamics common to all teens.  In short, without fully understanding what teens should look like on a “perfect day” they keep using approaches and methods that fail to break through the developmental barriers.  Many youth workers literally do not know what it is they are trying to achieve other than some form of behavioral change.  Numerous developmental issues and stages will be discussed, including the Search for Identity, Individuation, Leave-Taking Behavior, Paradox/Abstracting Choices and Control, Puberty, Idealism: Music, Pride, Egocentricity, Sex, Peer Pressure, Curiosity, NonOrdinary States of Consciousness, and Ceremony & Ritual.  Workshop participants will come away with a deep and workable understanding of the overall adolescent process.
Saturday, Feb. 4  StoryCon
At 1400 -- #162) STRIPPING AWAY THE ARMOR TO FIND THE HIGHER SELF by Hauge, Michael

At 1400 -- #197) The LifeWriting Approach to Writing and Life by Barnes, Steve
Creating a link between the inner and outer worlds of the creative life.  Aligned in this way, everything you do to improve your life improves your writing...and everything you write improves your life.  The myth is that creativity must be a destabilizing, confusing process or lifestyle.  The truth is that creativity is our natural birthright, and that the deepest wells of meditation access the same chambers of the human heart.  Throughout the ages, the secrets of releasing limitless energy, creativity, and emotional wellness have been scattered through hundreds of different disciplines throughout the world, and rarely has this knowledge been brought to bear on the question of crafting a creative life.  Through examples drawn from yoga, martial arts, hypnosis, NLP, and other disciplines both esoteric and practical, Steven Barnes will forge a link between the inner reality of the creative life and the outer, practical reality of the professional craftsman.  Limitless creativity, energy, and personal satisfaction are as close as the commitment to living your life fully, and moving through every barrier that has ever held you back from total expression.
Saturday, Feb. 4  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1600 -- #58) Why 'Just Say No' Just Hasn't Worked: Teens and  Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness (B) by Stephenson, Bret
‘Just Say No’ has been an idealistic and simplistic hope that teens will simply have the will power or skills necessary to avoid peer pressure to avoid using drugs.  Logic and reason seem to have bounced off modern adolescents.  A number of factors are contributing to the fact that American teens use more drugs and alcohol than their global counterparts.  While naively hoping teens will avoid drug usage, modern America’s adults lead the world in legal drug usage.  Youth workers need to understand how the pervasiveness of drugs, both legal and illegal, impact how teens feel and act around drugs.     Inherent to adolescence is a universal drive to experience Non-Ordinary States of Consciousness but no safe model or cultural ceremonial means to do so exists.  Indeed, it is a universal human trait to desire to alter one’s consciousness.  Historically and cross-culturally, this has been done without high addiction rates through ceremony and ritual, declining aspects of modern society.  If adolescents are not given healthy access to altered states, we can continue to expect them to take unhealthy paths to altered consciousness.  Finally, the continued breakdown of the modern family leads to deep adolescent discontent and the need to medicate emotions.  As cultural teen psychology becomes more pathological, and clinical practitioners medicate more youth, teens are becoming addicted on more and more levels than just recreationally.  The proclivity of prescribed medications has reached almost epidemic proportions as parents, teachers and doctors try to control teen behavior with medication, then try paradoxically to teach the same teens not to use drugs to alter their behavior.  Alternatives to drugs and a discussion of adolescent addiction vs. adult addiction will be included.

At 1600 -- #97) Neurofeedback Treatment of Dyslexia by Schummer, Gary
The prevalence of dyslexia ranges from 5-17% of school-aged children, with 40% of the entire population reading below grade level (Shaywitz and Shaywitz, 1990). Recent findings derived from QEEG measures have led clinicians and researchers to treat dyslexia with Neurofeedback. Results at our center as well as those presented by other providers have varied from minor improvements in comprehension to advancing three grade levels after 25 sessions. If these pilot studies continue to domonstrate similar efficacy in future research, Neurofeedback will become a significant tool to remediate this pervasive disorder. This workshop will assist the participant to understand the complexity of the disorder, summarize training strategies derived thus far, and propose areas for future exploration.

At 1600 -- #195) Performing the TLC Assessment by Van Deusen, Peter
Defines hardware/software platforms capable of gathering TLC Assess data, demonstrates the process, reviews the data views included in the report and provides an overview of the activation patterns used in identifying key training issues. This workshop shows how the subjective and objective assessment files can be combined to give a client-centered, detailed view of brain activation that guides trainers to selecting most effective training strategies.
Saturday, Feb. 4  StoryCon
At 1600 -- #208) Archetypal Ailments: Physiological, Psychological & Philosophical aspects of the chakra system  for story character development and personal healing. by Smith, Pamela Jaye
The workshop will first introduce the interpenetrating and inter-affective physiological, psychological, and philosophical aspects of the Centers of Motivation [chakras].  Each Center will then be explained via the related endocrine gland(s), hormones, and their effects.  Psychological manifestations of imbalances will be explained and explored.  Examples of philosophical outpicturings of imbalances will come from myth, media, and art.  The Centers of Motivation and their expressions are: ·Root Center - Sheer Survival, connection to physical form ·Sacral Center - Sex, Fear, Money Solar Plexus: (a dual Center with diverse expressions) · Lower — Personal Power, Greed, Individuality, Exclusivity ·Higher — Aspiration, Brotherhood, Inclusivity ·Heart Center - Unconditional Love for all humanity ·Throat Center - Conscious Creativity, Communication ·Ajna Center - Balance and Integration of all the Centers ·Crown Center - Connection with higher realms of Energy  Suggestions for healing and balance will include multiple approaches, since much of the inner disciplines of the Mystery Schools and the Ageless Wisdom utilize inside-out as well as outside-in approaches to integration, growth, and health.  Approaches will include changes in diet and physical exercises, archetypal and mythic familiarization and identification, visualizations, mantras, meditations, readings, activities, etc.
Saturday, Feb. 4  Optimal Functioning & Positive Psychology
At 1600 -- #152) Relationship between Awakening the Mind, Awakening the Energy System, Chakras, Kundalini, and EEG by , 

Sunday, Feb. 5  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1400 -- #37) PET Scans and Spirits by Mehl-Madrona, Lewis
What do PET scan results say about metaphor?  How can we relate the results of recent PET scan studies to the shamanic phenomena of spirits, to the activities of shamans, and to healing? Once a spirit has appeared in our vision, how do we communicate? Is this real or metaphor?    In this workshop, we will explore the craft of dialogue -- shamanic and other.  We will explore the role of trance in healing.  How do we use language, music, dance, and other modalities to switch worlds?  How do we alter consciousness to remove the cultural blinders that prevent dialogue with ancestors, nature, and spirits?  What is the training necessary to become a shaman and what brain changes might this training bring about?    Once blinders are removed to spirit communication, how to we proceed?  How do we invite a spirit to present itself?  Are there rules for encounter and engagement?  And where is this apparition?  In what reality does it dwell?  What are the results of these conversations and how do we develop them further for our own benefit and the benefit of others?  We will conclude with the possibilities for further dialogue between science and shamanism, PET scans and spirits.  How can this dialogue engender healing and expansion of consciousness.  We will explore the convergence of concepts of quantum physics and concepts of shamanism and their potential future integration in theory and practice.

At 1400 -- #81) Theoretical Models Underlying Neurofeedback by Othmer, Siegfried
The world of science moves us to be as specific as possible in demonstrating efficacy of neurofeedback, but increasingly the breadth of clinical efficacy motivates us in the opposite direction to try to explain the generality of effects. Critical neurophysiology experiments in the past decade are drawn upon to define the key elements of such a generalized model. The first approach will be to arrive at a “top-down” model, for which we appeal to the emerging understanding of networks. This will be followed up with a “bottom-up” model that inquires into the most general observations that can be made from the neuronal level that constrains the global architecture.    From network theory we find that despite the apparent morphological homogeneity of cortical neurons the brain is not organized as a random network, but rather as a “scale-free” network, or as a “small-world model,” in the new idiom. The resulting organization is highly hierarchical. If that is indeed the case, then the most efficient techniques of remediation should be those that appeal to the highest levels of the organizational hierarchy. Conversely, given the broad efficacy of neurofeedback techniques, the explanation most likely lies in the fact that the predominant appeal is to the higher levels of the regulatory hierarchy. This may be true quite irrespective of the particular techniques employed.    Given the proposed model, a classification of neurofeedback techniques is attempted with respect to the key identified “failure modes” of regulation in the bio-electrical domain. The resulting categorization of techniques may give us insights into how best to move forward in their refinement and further exploitation.

At 1400 -- #84) Neurofeedback meets neurology by Demos, John
Neurotherapy protocols may be chosen by paying attention to the presenting symptoms and matching those symptoms with neurologically specific areas of the brain. Key structures of the brain include the lobes of the prefrontal cortex. If the executive region of the brain is not functioning properly, likely the functioning of other lobes will be compromised. Identifying frontal lobe and prefrontal lobe abnormalities often guides neurotherapy protocols. However, neurotherapy in the frontal lobes is difficult and in some cases impossible. Fortunately therapy options are available. Other lobes also contribute to various symptoms. The power point presentation will review functions associated with the temporal, parietal, occipital lobes as well as the cingulate gyrus, cerebellum and the sensorimotor cotex. Each structure will be reviewed and likely therapy interventions will be discussed. Workshop attendees will be introduced to websites that can serve as guides as well as publications that can be used as the basis of clinical interviews in the search for the symptom based neurologically specific neurotherapy protocols. Potentially beneficial protocols include: how to improve handwriting in children with a two channel model; enhancing eye contact with children who are diagnosed with asperger’s disorder; improving balance with clients who are unsteady or unsure on their feet; building social awareness and executive functioning and judgment by training in the frontal lobes.  All protocols require an understanding of how to identify EEG abnormalities by performing mini-assessments or QEEG.  Participants need to have a general understanding of how neurofeedback works and the international 10-20 system of sensor location.

At 1400 -- #95) HEART and BREATH, an Integration of Research and Techniques by Whitehouse, Bob
Recent research lends credence to ancient views of the role of the heart and reveals its predictive power in mortality, longevity, loving relations, and intuition.  Its spiral shape and function create an electromagnetic field that shares similarities with the presumed field of the universe. Points of view from three different camps of research will be shared. Techniques and demonstrations will be given for 4 keys to health and optimal performance: attaining healthy heart rate variability (HRV), the desired Resonant Frequency in your heart waves, and mechanically and chemically efficient breathing.    Come explore the latest synthesis of research, theory, and technique about heart and breath and Dr. Whitehouse’s nearly 10,000 hours of watching heart rate and breathing patterns.   In addition to a PowerPoint presentation, there will be 4-7 techniques taught, handouts of readings and references, and live biofeedback monitoring of the mechanics and chemistry (ETCO2) for breathing, as well as Heart Rate Variability, spectral Heart Rate DFT (the frequencies that make up the cardiac signal, also now called Heart Waves). This will be understandable by anyone.  The research will be a synthesis from the works of Paul Lehrer, Evgeny Vaschillo, and Richard Gevirtz, the Institute of HeartMath, Jeffree Cram,   Peter Litchfield on breathing chemistry, the reports of heart transplant recipients, and seven steps from the Dalai Lama on expanding love.  You will see emotional signatures in heart rate patterns, as well as the heart waves that accompany intuition, compassion, love, fear, anger, and passion and purpose.

At 1400 -- #108) Mindfulness and neurofeedback: integral treatment of ADHD, anxiety, and depression by Collins, Al
This workshop will demonstrate my way of working with a variety  of kinds of psychopathology using Buddhist mindfulness practice and neurofeedback together.  The aim is to train clients to use the skills learned in the office during neurofeedback training in daily life.  Homework practice involves daily self rating and practice of mindfulness, remembering of focal attention during neurofeedback, and usually autonomic techniques (HRV breathing and hand warming).  The workshop aims to give participants a sense of how to integrate mindfulness with a neurofeedback practice to enhance both modalities.
Sunday, Feb. 5  Optimal Functioning & Positive Psychology
At 1400 -- #115) Thriving Under Pressure by Zinsser, Nathaniel
“Thriving Under Pressure'  An examination of the intangibles that facilitate great performance under extremes of pressure. The worshop is organized around three themes: 1.Confidence, which leads to Trust,Adaptability, Mental Agility, and Resilience  2. Energy, which allows for Sustained Preparation and Emotional intensity when needed 3. Focus, which leads to a state of Eagerness and quality execution.  The exploration of these themes wil be illustrated with video clips of elite perfomers and real world examples of performance under pressure.                                   C. Stress Response D. Relaxation Response
Sunday, Feb. 5  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1600 -- #122) Oriental Medicine Made Incredibly Easy with the EMAS Device by Rubik, Beverly
An introduction and simplified overview of Oriental medicine will be presented, as well as an overview of electrodermal testing, for starters.  No knowledge of acupuncture is required in order to learn how to use this simple device or to take this workshop. We will demonstrate the state-of-the-art in electroacupuncture diagnostic and biofeedback devices, the EMAS (Electro Meridian Analysis System; see www.hepoch.com).  The device and its associated software are user-friendly and offer incredible insight into Oriental interpretations of a person’s condition, even for people untrained in Oriental medicine.  The EMAS measures electrical conductivity at 12 hand and foot acupuncture points corresponding to the 12 key meridians, and reveals the energy flow in the meridians.  A software analysis then shows results according to the various systems of Oriental medicine. Autonomic nervous system regulation is also indicated.  The analysis also reveals various treatment plans ranging from aromatherapy, herbs, foods, various exercises, acupressure, to acupuncture, as well as qigong and self-massage, which are described in detail.  Possible Western diagnoses are also described for the energy profiles obtained.  Demonstrations using the EMAS device will be made on volunteer participants, and we will measure everyone if time permits.   Given sufficient time, we will also take measurements before and after an intervention such as a group qigong exercise, on at least one volunteer to show how the device can be used to monitor pre-post effects of clinical interventions.

At 1600 -- #171) The Four Puzzle Pieces: a psychobiological approach to couples therapy by Tatkin, Stan

At 1600 -- #192) Neo Shamanic Meditation with The Light Labyrinth: Light, Crystal and Brainwave Technology by Seid, Kirby
Description of talk Note: The main part of this seminar will be experiential. Participants will have the opportunity for deep trancendent meditative experiences with The Light Labyrinth, Music Visualizer and large extraordinary quartz crystals.  Part 1: 3 part Discussion/Lecture · Neo Shamanism- wholistic approach to integrating technology, art and spiritualty  o Discussion of neo shamanism o Relationship to world as living, animated  o Motivations for altering consciousness- Dreamtime and imaginal realms o Unfamiliar senses- what are they/ why it is important to develop them · Physics and metaphysics of minerals and crystals related to Neo shamanism o Basic physical properties of Quartz Crystals created from geological forces approximately 100-200 million years old and their affect on human consciousness · The Light Labyrinth Project- formulation of the technology and the Light Form Programs o Development of the Light Forms o Distraction and entertainment of the mind/ego o Calibration and synergy of the triad of Light, Crystal and Human consciousness o Visual Resonance- Higher octive/harmonic field, being in dreamtime, functioning on multiple levels of awareness, including subject/object relationship collapse o Music Visualizer application- allows viewers to see what they are hearing. Light and color vibrations move with the ranges of sound frequency when played with music for spectacular results.  Brief Break  Part 2: Facilitated trance meditation with The Light Labyrinth and Music Visualizer · Exploratory meditation with the light forms, crystals and color · Depending on the size of the group we will have one to three Light Labyrinths with large quartz crystals linked by computer for simultaneous viewing  Part 3: Question and answer session with experiential feedback.

At 1600 -- #223) sLORETA- what is it and what does it mean to me? by Sherlin, Leslie

Sunday, Feb. 5  Optimal Functioning & Positive Psychology
At 1600 -- #148) Five Points  to Reach Peak Performance by Csoka, Louis
The workshop will provide an opportunity for participants to engage in dialogue and experience around the basic principles of peak performance as they have been developod in a unique way by the workshoip leader. Beginning at West Point and extending to business organizations, this approach to peak performance skills training and development will appeal to participants who are searching for new and innovative ways to use sensory feedback beyond a clinical tool. The workshop will focus on the following: Goal Setting Positive-Effective Thinking Stress and Energy Management Attention Control Visualization & Imagery
Monday, Feb. 6  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1400 -- #164) Marketing: Neurofeedback: A New Frontier by Stoler, Diane
Manufactures Unite Education: Inside: Basic Course: Neuroanatomy  Understanding Brainwaves Understanding Protocols Overview of different types of equipment: __Possibly able to rent to buy, rather than buying and discovering not what needed for specific use.  Education: Outside  Neuropsychologist, Psychologist, Special Educators; Medical; Law Enforcement Community.   Markets for Neurofeedback:  Rehabilitation Hospital; Residential Facilities–Chronic Illness-TBI, Stroke; Penial Facilities-Rehab of incarcerated individual     Markets for Mind Fitness Training: Gyms & health clubs ( train the mind, while you train the body); Home Gyms; Retirement Communities; Assisted Living; Educational Facilities: Schools; Colleges; Home Use- Meditative–QVC & Home Shopping Network.  Scientific Study/Research  PR– Magazine Articles; Radio; Infomercial  Major Organization put $ portion in joint pool for Marketing and PR.

At 1400 -- #5) Methods for potentiating neurotherapy by Swingle, Paul
Although neurofeedback is the primary therapeutic tool, techniques are available for increasing the efficiency and accelerating the process of modifying brain functioning.  Many neurotherapists do provide clients with various adjunctive self-administered treatments to facilitate the therapeutic process.   These “add ons” include relaxation exercises, self-hypnosis, energy psychology routines, life style modification recommendations, subliminal affirmation devices, cranial microamperage stimulators, audiovisual stimulators and therapeutic harmonics.  The reason for prescribing these procedures, of course, is because they are believed to potentiate the therapeutic process.  The workshop will focus on both self-administered therapeutic aids such as cranial microamperage stimulators, harmonic sounds, audiovisual stimulators, and relaxation exercises as well as braindriving techniques.  The latter techniques are rapidly developing methods that allow the treatment of clients with limited capacity to attend to volitional neurofeedback techniques.    Braindriving makes use of stimulation procedures that have known effects on brainwave activity.  Such stimuli include sounds, visual stimulation, electrical stimulation of acupuncture points, and electromagnetic stimulation.  The technique involves delivering the stimulation contigent on brainwave activity on a fixed reinforcement schedule.  Thus, for example, with a condition of excessive theta amplitude, a theta suppressing stimulus can be presented anytime the theta amplitude exceeds a therapist designated threshold.  The system is automated and can be autothresholding.  This is an extreemly effective technique for treatment of those clients with limited attending capacity or in conditions where tasking (e.g., reading or writing) is involved.

At 1400 -- #14) MYSTERIES OF NF SUCCESS: What's Happening When"Nothing's Happening"? by Brod, Thomas
In this two-hour workshop, Thomas Brod and Wm Scott will review non-linear dynamic theory and its successful application in NeuroCare Pro and the new BrainPaint application of Bill Scott. We will consider the relationship of neurofeedback to subjectivity in cases of patient recovery. Is the process de-humanized when the computer is the Analyst and the patient's "brain” is being trained? Thinking in terms of brain-computer interface would seem to remove two "selves" from the self-regulation process--that of the therapist and that of the patient/client—but actually allows a non-materialist generative perspective. Emphasis in the workshop will be on enhancing therapist effectiveness when it appears on the surface that "nothing is happening."  We will address the observations of the “self-regulating brain” which have confounded the standard neurofeedback paradigm of the operant conditioning model applied to specific frequency training.  The EEG reflects brain communication which is inherently non-linear.  Why expect linear measures, including the quantitative EEG (QEEG), to train “brain waves”—ie, state management.  Detailed consideration will be given to protocol-based feedback vs. Val Brown’s “information value” based feedback.  Additionally, there are elements of EEG biofeedback assessment, protocol selection and post-session reassessment that can be computerized—once they are manualized.  The BrainPaint program now has a beta version performing these functions.  Several cases will be reviewed in detail.  Brain damage from early childhood and post-stroke patients will illustrate dramatic recovery of chronic dysfunction from non-linear dynamic feedback.  Presumably these illustrate the effects of brain plasticity in fully developed people.  Group discussion will be expected in this workshop.

At 1400 -- #24) An EEG Based Inventory For Neurofeedback Professionals by Soutar, Richard
The Interactive Self Inventory (ISI) was designed to assess the strengths and weaknesses of key dimensions of social interaction.  The eight dimensions of this instrument are correlated with various levels of EEG coupling and are intended to predict general qEEG patterns of power and magnitude distribution.  The instrument was also designed to determine what steps can be taken to improve social accuracy as well as support the neurofeedback protocol being used concurrently to re-establish an optimal coupling zone and neural efficiency and timing.  This allows neurofeedback pracitioners to evaluate the impact of social systems and interaction on the training process, such as the family system, and harness those systems for a more integrated approach.  It can also be used as a measure of transformation and preparedness for meditation training.  The presentation will look at social accuracy as the key concept behind the ISI and how it relates to the concepts of approach and avoidance behavior.  The 16 subdimensions of approach and avoidance will be reviewed in detail and related to qEEG patterns of distribution of magnitude and power.  Important aspect regarding face validity, external and internal validity, sampling, dimensional orthagonality, instrument sensitivity, and cross validation will be addressed.  Uses of the ISI for various forms of assessment will be considered.  In addition the manner in which the ISI can be used to guide individuals through specific steps to change leading to positive transformation will be discussed in detail.

At 1400 -- #211) Advanced BioExplorer Workshop by Martin, George

Monday, Feb. 6  Optimal Functioning & Positive Psychology
At 1400 -- #52) Everyday Olympics:  Coach yourself to achieve breakthrough outcomes by  shifting paradigms by Turner, Colleen

At 1400 -- #160) UTILIZING VISUALIZATION TO FACILITATE INNER TRANSFORMATION by Roland, Allen
The workshop will be experiential in nature and will involve guided visualization with shared experience.  Each visualization is set up to facilitate inner transformation and self healing .
Monday, Feb. 6  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1600 -- #57) Trauma Resolution: A Multi-Modality Approach by White, Nancy
Our diagnostic system for trauma generally assumes that traumatic events are relatively rare, tend to be fairly catastrophic and yet actually traumatize relatively few persons, who usually will exhibit symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD). Few mental health practitioners see much connection of other psychiatric disorders with trauma. Thus, conditions such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, the eating disorders and dissociative disorders continue to be diagnosed and treated as discrete conditions without possible roots in trauma, which roots may connect to other, seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as shyness, sense of isolation, phobias or an inability to make commitments.  In fact, traumatic events have proved to be quite frequent and do not have to be particularly traumatic in themselves to traumatize a considerable number of individuals. Significantly, only 20% to 30% of trauma victims actually display the classic symptoms of PTSD; most persons tend to display other psychiatric symptoms not usually perceived to be connected with trauma. In many cases denial or dissociation drive the condition underground where it is stored as fragmented bits of sensation, muscular impulse or feeling walled off from consciousness until a trigger event brings them full-blown to the surface. Meantime, they may surface indirectly as less-than-functional behavioral or attitudinal traits.  Ultimately, trauma is shown to be more a function of a person’s susceptibility than the nature of the trigger event. Certain aspects of a person’s experience tend either to predispose that person to trauma or provide resilience to it. Further, trauma tends to be a multi-level matrix of symptomology: there are early symptoms such as hyperarousal, anxiety, phobia, depression, and later symptoms such as addiction, chronic pain and fibromyalgia or asthma. In addition, trauma symptoms run along a continuum of severity from relatively mild (e.g., depression) to severe (multiple personality disorder), further designated as childhood or adult onset. Lastly, trauma affects the person at all levels of being: biochemical, neurophysiological and psychological, manifesting in cognitive function, emotional problems and behavioral disorders.  Once we see trauma as an umbrella syndrome with multiple levels of expression along a continuum of severity with several layers of symptomatic expression, we realize that a truly effective remediation must involve many levels as well. The Enhancement Institute has developed a multi-modality approach offered in an intensive outpatient format that easily can be adapted to many forms of clinical practice. This approach uses specific combinations of, bioenergetics, cognitive-behavioral therapy, cranial electrical stimulation, EFT, neurotherapy, ocular light therapy and tai chi to restore good functionality cognitively, emotionally and behaviorally. Putting them together effectively requires proper evaluation and assessment, but once done, fairly rapid results can occur.

At 1600 -- #78) The Treatment of Fatigue States by Parkinson, Lesley

At 1600 -- #207) Structural-functional correlates of neurofeedback by Kozlowski, Gerald

Monday, Feb. 6  Optimal Functioning & Positive Psychology
At 1600 -- #161) Maximize Life by Living for Peace, Harmony, and Joy by Schram, Robert

Tuesday, Feb. 7  Winter Brain Meeting
At 1400 -- #130) Psychoneurenergenetics and Neurofeedback : A Bridge Between East and West? by O'Malley, Ed
Can neurofeedback bridge Eastern and Western healing practices?  Are you aware of the existence of an energetic connection between your client, the technology and you?  If so, how do we as practitioners prepare ourselves to participate in this energetic exchange event?  Is there a difference between “healer” and “clinician”? Between clinician and client?  What is the current thinking embraced by the Dalai Lama about the impact of ancient mental practices on western medicine, adventitious suffering and healing?  This presentation is designed to provide the neurofeedback provider with a radically different view of the therapeutic approach to the neurofeedback training process and it’s relation to ancient mental training practices, like mindfulness meditation.  The psychoneurenergetic view holds that there is an energetic connection established between the client, practitioner and technology that allows a more direct connection with the client in the therapeutic relationship, through fostering presence in the moment. This energetic connection is always present in a caring therapeutic relationship, yet, usually goes unrecognized or unappreciated as the powerful tool that it is. Essential elements of practices such as Tonglen, a Buddhist method for exchanging suffering for peace, and ways to become energized, rather than drained by such practices will be demonstrated and discussed.  Workshop members will be invited to become participants in this attempt to involve mental practices used to sense the energy present in the moment, and to share views on how this may be possible in their own lives and practices.  Also presented will be some the most current thinking on the science of meditation/mental training as reflected in the recent (November, 2005) Mind and Life Conference XIII with HH Dalai Lama, Contemplatives and western neuroscientists. I will update clinicians on the vast healing potential that the intersection of ancient mental practices, medicine and science, have for alleviating suffering in the world today.  Workshop Outline  I. Overview of a typical neurofeedback session a. Role of the practitioner i. Goals ii. Director approach to effecting change b. Role of the client i. Goals  ii. Non-participatory expectations c. Role of the technology i. Tool for inducing change II. Sea change event-personal transformation a. Recognition of the energetics underlying therapeutic relationships b. Immersion in the energetic field of client/self/technology c. Pre/post case presentation III. Overview of typical psychoneurenergetic neurofeedback session a. Role of the practitioner i. Goals ii. Facilitator approach to effecting change b. Role of the client i. Goals  ii. Increased participation tied to expectations c. Role of the technology i. Facilitates presence necessary for change d. More case studies e. Demonstration of this interactive process with full audience participation i. Volunteer hooked up to equipment ii. Audience brought through anxiety-provoking visualization iii. Audience brought through deep relaxation visualization iv. Both scenarios reflected in technology viewed live on computer screen IV. Brief overview of science of mindfulness meditation and neurofeedback a. Use of mindfulness meditation to improve conditions requiring self-regulation such as depression, anxiety, stress, asthma, psoriasis, cardiovascular disease b. NF improvements similarly effected through self-regulation c. NF as tool to effect more rapid mental training i. Especially in those who have trouble “sitting” meditation d. Energetics as the connection between meditation and NF? e. Psychoneurenergetics - a new field?? V. Future proposals based on science of mediation, neuroenergetics and NF discussion a. Can NF bridge the divide between East and West? b. Can psychoneurenergetics assist clients to become active participants in their own health care?  c. Can psychoneurenergetics assist health care providers to become equivalent participants in the health care they provide?

At 1400 -- #185) BrainPrime and the Aging Brain by Van Deusen, Peter
The BrainPrime program was developed and tested in Atlanta in 2000 as a general-purpose training for aging. The program will be presented in light of research on activation changes. Also covered will be program structure and marketing for those interested in working with this growing population. Specific protocols now usable in multiple softwares will also be covered.

At 1400 -- #224) The Photonic Stimulatoras an Adjunct to Neurofeedback by Ochs, Len
The Photonic Stimulator is an infrared light that reduces pain, promotes tissue growth, and reduces sympathetic nervous system activity.  As an adjunct to neurofeedback is provides palliative support by reducing pain that barrages the central nervous system and disorganizes the brain’s ability to accurately map and characterize afferent somatic impulses.  It reduces anxiety and irritability indirectly by reducing pain.  It raises the tic and seizure thresholds by blocking sympathetic afferents, thereby synchronizing the EEG.  Practically, it provides enormous relief through pain and anxiety reduction, supports concentration and attention, and reduces ritualistic compulsive associated with chronic pain.  This workshop provides an overview of the great variety of photonic stimulators, laser and otherwise, as well as an introduction to how they work.