BFE Learn From the Best Program

Biofeedback in Israel

2012-02-22T09:15:00.001-05:00

Recently, Dr. Erik Peper traveled to Israel to present a series of workshops on biofeedback. The event was organized by the Israeli Biofeedback-Neurofeedback Association (IBNA). As one of the sponsors of the event, we had the pleasure of working with the members of the IBNA to help promote the workshops. Yuval Oded, a member of the IBNA commented, "Erik is a wonderful human being and an outstanding teacher. As a real master in integrative approaches to healing, his workshops here not only greatly expanded our knowledge in biofeedback but also affected many of us in our general attitude towards therapy by emphasizing
the role emotional memories and patterns, and interactions of body, mind, social and physical environment for achieving long term results in optimizing performance and health. Erik generously shared his clinical wisdom with us, teaching many practical techniques for increasing self awareness, fostering control and self mastery skills, taking charge and actively participating in ones own healing process. The workshops were not only theoretical. Erik gave us many impressive demonstrations using biofeedback on how to promote health."

Day 1 - Wednesday, January 11th
Making the Invisible Visible with Biofeedback as a Diagnostic and Self Mastery Tool
The workshop focused on integrating biofeedback with cognitive, somatic and imagery techniques. The biofeedback includes analysis of dysponetic muscle patterns, dysfunctional respiratory patterns in clients and training strategies to optimize performance and health. The biofeedback treatment strategies can be used in numerous disorders such as panic and anxiety, recurrent abdominal pain, asthma, muscle dysfunction, hypertension, autonomic disregulation disorders, PTSD and pain.

Day 2 - Thursday, January 12th
Integrated Biofeedback to Manage Stress and to Optimize Health
Dr. Peper discussed the use of respiration biofeedback and other modalities (temp, SEMG, SCL, HRV) for stress management and for reducing pain, panic, anxiety and increasing performance.

Day 3 - Friday, January 13th
From Technostress to Technohealth
This course focused on teaching practitioners how to prevent computer-related disorders and presented a comprehensive approach covering workstation ergonomics, corporate culture work environment, individual work style, work/rest patterns and psychophysiological predisposition. An emphasis is placed on utilizing surface EMG to take the guesswork out of assessment, monitoring, and training.

The workshops were co-sponsored and in collaboration with:

SAN Society for Applied Neuroscience (www.applied-neuroscience.org)

Psy-Phi Advanced Psychological Solutions (www.psy-phi.co.il)

Medtechnica (www.medtechnica.co.il)

Comments on the workshop...

“Dr. Pepers' contribution to the field of applied psychophysiology and Biofeedback over the past 40 years is huge. What I have learned from him as a student in many of his BFE workshops, has first of all, changed the way I cope with stress."

--Yuval Oded

"The ability to teach in a way that the participants not only learned new tools for their practice but also for the clinicians themselves, is one of the major strengths of Erik. He made everybody understand and feel hands on that clinicians need to experience Biofeedback themselves in order to be good clinicians."

--Daniela Gräfin von Der Schulenburg-Ortner

The BFE looks forward to working with the IBNA again in the future to promote biofeedback and neurofeedback in Israel.

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BFE 2011 Annual Conference

2012-01-18T09:09:00.001-05:00

We have just confirmed the dates for our 2012 Annual Conference. This year the conference will be held September 11-15, 2012 in Rzeszów, Poland.

For more information, as well as submissions of workshop proposals, submissions for the scientific program (symposia, lectures, papers, posters, short courses) and questions about industrial exhibition please contact:
Monika Fuhs, Program Chair: editor@bfe.org,
or visit our homepage www.bfe.org

Submission deadlines:
March 1, 2012 workshops and short courses, invited talks
April 15, 2012 symposia and paper session
May 1, 2012 posters and oral presentations

We look forward to seeing you there!

Beating Holiday Stress With Biofeedback

2011-12-09T16:20:00.031-05:00

Every year at this time the media features articles about holidays and stress. This can indeed be a hectic time of year, but it doesn’t have to be stress filled. The Mayo Clinic’s website offers a list of coping strategies, including one that focuses on breathing:

“Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take a walk at night and stargaze. Listen to soothing music. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.” Click here for full article.

As we approach the holidays, I thought it would be a good time to remind all the followers of this blog about the BFE’s EZ-AIR PLUS software program. EZ-AIR PLUS is a software program published by the BFE to help you breathe better when sitting at your computer. It allows you to place a thin bargraph or linegraph anywhere on your computer screen to help you pace your inhalation and exhalation. You can let it run continuously on screen (with or without sound) or you can schedule "breaks" throughout your day to regulate breathing.

As health professionals, you know the importance of proper breathing and the benefits it can provide to your clients. EZ-AIR PLUS is an ideal way for your clients to practice relaxation techniques at home. We offer a free 30-day trial on our website at www.bfe.org. After the 30-day period, the software can be purchased for $19.95 USD. Proceeds from the sale of EZ-AIR PLUS help to support the work of our foundation. Click Here to view EZ-Air Plus Promo.

The Physiology of Breathing

Breathing is a natural process which occurs without conscious control. Babies and young children breathe effortlessly. Most of the movement associated with their breathing occurs primarily in the lower abdominal area. As they exhale, their abdomen (stomach) goes in slightly. When they inhale, they abdomen expand outward and to the sides. Most adults, however, no longer breathe in this healthy pattern. Instead, they hold their stomach rigid or slack and use a significant amount of upper body muscular activity to inhale.

The major muscle involved in proper breathing is called the diaphragm. This is a dome shaped muscle located beneath the ribs and above the stomach. In order to inhale, the diaphragm tightens and flattens. This activity displaces the liquid contents of the abdomen and thereby creates a larger space in the chest. As this space is created, the pressure in the atmosphere exceeds the pressure in the chest and air flows in to balance these pressures out.

To exhale, the diaphragm must relax and be raised upward, compressing the air in the chest and allowing the air to be expired. Thus, inhalation requires that the abdominal area relax and expand, while exhalation requires the abdominal area to decrease in diameter. The chest and shoulders should stay relaxed throughout the breathing cycle.

From the manual “Breathing for Health With Biofeedback” by Dr. Erik Peper

EZ-AIR PLUS. It is a great way to relax, reduce stress and a reminder to do something good for ourselves during this busy time of year!

Start your free trial today.

Thank You for Visiting Us at ISNR!

2011-10-11T13:43:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit us at ISNR.We hope you learned a little bit about us and the online educational opportunities at the Biofeedback Foundation of Europe. We look forward to see you online soon!

Here is part 3 of our recent interview with Francois Dupont in which he talks about his current work on several BFE teams and what is coming in the future.

You have also collaborated on the creation of the BFE TBI Suite which is currently being developed.
One philosophy of the BFE is to bring different people together to work on common project. The TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) suite is one of these projects. Drs. John Davis and Robert McCarthy and I have met a number of times to start organizing information about instruments to assess TBI, resources for people who have suffered TBI and the type of EEG assessment needed for this condition. Traumatic brain injury is different from conditions like attention deficit disorder in the sense that with ADHD there are some typical configurations or presentations in terms of brainwave activity. Since traumatic brain injury is the result of an injury that can affect any part of the brain – there is nothing typical about it. For example, sometimes we see the brain of a person who was hit on the left side to be mostly affected on the right side because of what we call the contra-coup. The brain essentially moved from one side of the skull to the other side during the accident. For this reason, we need to do a more extensive assessment and in most cases we would recommend to do a full QEEG with 19 channels. We are exploring what would be the best type of training screens to adjust easily to this unfortunate condition.

I know there are suites for ADHD and Attention in the works. Can you tell me a bit about those?
I am also currently working with Dr. Vincent Monastra and Dr. Joel Lubar on two suites for ADHD and Attention. These men were very happy to learn that for some years I have been using a scripted session that replicates the steps needed for their assessment of ADHD. As a team, we improved this software greatly. For instance, there is now an Excel report automatically created at the end of the assessment with graphs using the published norms of their famous Theta/Beta power ratio. This suite is the perfect example of the usefulness of the scripted session. The reason for this is that their ratio has been regularly misused in the field. For example, many people record the theta/beta ratio with eyes closed, which was never part of the actual protocol by Monastra, Lubar and their collaborators. This script function allows us to reproduce the exact conditions set by these pioneers in their published research. A person using the script will essentially reproduce exactly what Dr. Monastra and Lubar have done to create the norms for the theta/beta ratio. There is standardized text to be read by the client and the audio recording for the listening task is played automatically in the assessment script. Both are based on age group. The BFE plans to create versions in many languages.

What specific challenges do these topics provide?
Dr. Monastra and I are working on different ways to present feedback for children who have attention problems. We are exploring new functions such as flash games that are appealing to a younger audience. With Dr. Monastra’s expertise in the field of attention, we hope to find ways to make the training faster and more efficient.

Dr. François Dupont is a registered psychologist with competence in general, health, and rehabilitation psychology. In his private practice in Ottawa, he often combines bio/neurofeedback with techniques borrowed from cognitive-behavioural, dynamic-humanistic and experiential approaches. Involved with the BFE for more than a decade, he has developed software suites such as: Infiniti for The Learning Curve (TLC), Integrated Neurofeedback, and Monastra-Lubar Theta/Beta Assessment. His expertise as a clinician combined with his software knowledge make Francois an ideal contributor to BFE Software Suites.

Special thanks to Dr. Dupont for granting us the time for this interview and for all the work he has done in collaboration with several BFE-IREP teams.

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Gearing Up for ISNR - Integrated Neurofeedback with Francois Dupont

2011-09-07T13:48:00.008-04:00

Several representatives from the BFE will be on hand at the upcoming ISNR Conference - September 14-18, 2011 in Phoenix, AZ. Among them will be Francois Dupont, Ph.D.

At the Thought Technology Ltd.
Silver Sponsor Booths 11 & 20

Dr. François Dupont is a registered psychologist with competence in general, health, and rehabilitation psychology. In his private practice in Ottawa, he often combines bio/neurofeedback with techniques borrowed from cognitive-behavioural, dynamic-humanistic and experiential approaches. Involved with the BFE for more than a decade, he has developed software suites such as: Infiniti for The Learning Curve (TLC), Integrated Neurofeedback, and Monastra-Lubar Theta/Beta Assessment. His expertise as a clinician combined with his software knowledge make Francois an ideal contributor to BFE Software Suites.

I recently had a chance to speak to Francois about a number of neurofeedback software suites he has created. This post about Integrated Neurofeedback is the second in a 3-part series.

You have also created the Integrated Neurofeedback suite. It differs from other BFE suites in that it is not just about one specific topic. How can the Integrated Neurofeedback suite help both the beginner and the experienced neurofeedback practitioner?

While beginners will benefit right away from the simplicity of this suite, experienced clinicians will learn to appreciate the many levels of integration within the suite itself and the integration with other suites from the BFE and from Thought Technology. Let’s explore the simplicity first. Even though there are many screens in the suite, the majority of the screens use the same template consisting of one main bargraph and 2 or 3 smaller bargraphs as watchdogs for artefacts and muscle activity.

I’ve heard you refer to this as the “One Main Bargraph” approach.

Yes. The main bargraph represents the result of a computation or an algorithm that can be very simple, like one frequency band inhibit from one physical channel. It can also be very complex, like combining 6 bands from 2 physical channels. For example, this could be 2 inhibit bands and 1 reward band per channel. The result of the computation, as sophisticated as it may be, is presented by that one main bargraph. This makes it very easy for the therapist and for the person who’s training to know what is supposed to happen; in most cases the goal is to lower the main bargraph.

This “one main bargraph” approach also allowed for the creation of very useful and easy to read trend instruments that are integrated into the training screen. The therapist and the clients themselves can use these instruments to gauge progress in real time during the training session. Essentially, if the slope in the trend instrument is going down, you’re doing a good job because it means you’re progressing toward the state defined by the algorithm.

How are the training bands determined?

The Integrated Neurofeedback suite uses the specific training bands defined by an assessment done with a full QEEG, the TLC suite, any type of Mini Q assessments well as a symptom based assessment such as the Brownback-Mason CNC-1020. The suite uses these bands to automatically create a number of training screens that are customized to the client’s needs. Let’s say that the results from an assessment indicate that a client should decrease amplitude of lower frequencies (3 to 9 Hz) at C3 and C4 locations and also decrease amplitude of higher frequencies (21 to 35 Hz) at the same locations. And, it also indicates that an increase in amplitude of frequency bands 15 to 19 Hz at C3 and 12 to 14 Hz at C4 would be beneficial. You simply enter these band parameters in what is called the “Basic Planning Screen” to automatically generate a number of training screens with the specific bands for this client.

Here are only a few examples of the screens hierarchy created in the suite. In these examples, when I talk of focus, I mean the computation or algorithm attached to the main bargraph in the training screen.

Screen that focuses on increasing 15 to 19 Hz at C3
Another screen that does the same for 12 to 14 Hz at C4
Screen that focuses on decreasing low and high frequencies combined at C3
Another screen that does the same at C4
Screen that focuses on decreasing low and high frequencies and increasing 15 to 19 Hz at C3
Another screen that does the same for 12 to 14 Hz at C4
Finally, a screen that combines decreasing low and high frequencies and increasing the specific rewards at C3 and C4 all at the same time

Each one of these algorithms is computed in the background and the result is attached to the main bargraph. Training screens with ratios made of low frequencies over reward bands and high frequencies over reward bands are automatically created. Training for the percentage of the total power of a user defined band is also included. Training with Joint Time-Frequency Analysis (JTFA) is possible, as well as coherence training, Alpha-Theta training, reversal correction training, etc.

Can you give an example of a typical session?

Integrated Neurofeedback Training Screen

This “one main bargraph” approach opened the door to a sophisticated integration of amplitude training and time in the target zone training, presented in meaningful audio and video format to create a multi-dimensional feedback system. In each screen the same computation is associated with the main bargraph and with a line graph. However, the resulting value is presented with different smoothing, which means that these two instruments move at different speeds.

First, there is a musical key being played over a set number of octaves which is controlled by the line graph. The movement of the musical notes is threshold independent, there is no threshold, and is proportional to how far the line goes toward the condition to be reinforced. It is the foundation for training with eyes closed since this is a continuous and proportional audio feedback. This first level of feedback gives the following message: “You’re going in the good direction”.

As soon as you cross the threshold on the bar graph, without inhibit or artefact, you get a very soft sound and the bar turns grey. The message here is: “You are able to reach the desired state”.

Then, when you hold the bar in condition, without inhibit or artefact, for one unit of time on a counter, the animation moves and you have a soft pink noise, which remains present for as long as the bar is in condition. By adding the animation and a third layer of enveloping sounds, this level adds the following message: “You are able to sustain the desired state”.

Finally, when you are able to hold the bar in condition, without inhibit or artefact, for a longer period of time, the default being 4 units of time, you have a discrete sound from a bell, as well as a green light and one point on the cumulative counter. Here the final message is: “You are able to sustain the desired state long enough to accumulate points”.

The enveloping effect of this multi-layered feedback system has to be witnessed to be fully appreciated.

What types of review screens are available?

Protocol Selector Review Screen

Another feature that experienced clinicians really appreciate is the Protocol Selector series of review screens. This is a type of review screen that is used right after a recording. What is different about this review screen is that it will plot the value of the actual computation used for training and associated to the main bargraph. For example, it will plot the sum value of “the low and high inhibits at C3 and C4” to quickly and easily show if the trainee is making progress with the actual computation. But what is really innovative is the fact that the other computations available in the suite are also on the review screen even if they were not used for the training session just completed. This allows verifying visually if another computation might be giving more efficient feedback than the one used during the recording. In our example, if a ratio made of the inhibit bands over the reward bands has a more pronounced slope than the algorithm using the sum of the inhibit bands alone, and used during the training being reviewed, it would be wise to test this protocol during the next training section.

Finally, these Protocol Selectors and the other types of review screens, as well as the screens for statistics in the Integrated Neurofeedback suite can be used with data from most of the other suites from the BFE and Thought Technology. This is possible because special channel sets have been created specifically for that purpose. Once you have learned to appreciate the Protocol Selectors, you will be curious to see the data from other suites analyzed through them.

Coming Soon...

Part 3 - Suites Under Development

INTEGRATED NEUROFEEDBACK SOFTWARE SUITE

The Integrated Neurofeedback software suite is available for direct download in the BFE Online Shop.

INTEGRATED NEUROFEEDBACK ONLINE CLASS

Learning to use a new software program can be both time consuming and challenging. Join us in an online class to learn the basics and beyond in a friendly, interactive environment.

Gearing Up for ISNR - Francois Dupont and Infiniti for The Learning Curve

2011-09-01T14:10:00.001-04:00

I recently had a chance to speak to Francois about a number of neurofeedback software suites he has created. This post about Infiniti for The Learning Curve is the first in a 3-part series.

Sample screen from Infiniti for The Learning Curve

The first suite you created with the BFE is called Infiniti for The Learning Curve. It allows the Infiniti user to interface with Peter Van Deusen's TLC database. How did this come about?

Peter Van Deusen’s TLC assessment can be used with different hardware and software platforms, but for some time there was no link with the BioGraph Infiniti system. Since that is the equipment I’ve been using for a number of years, I offered to create the interface and that is how I came to create my first suite for the Biofeedback Foundation of Europe.

How is this suite beneficial to Infiniti users?

The Infiniti for The Learning Curve suite is especially beneficial to Biograph Infiniti users who want, for diverse reasons, to use an advanced EEG assessment without going for a formal 19 channel QEEG. The TLC approach uses regular encoders like ProComp Infiniti, ProComp2, Procomp 5, and even the older ProComp Plus to record a structured and thorough assessment of brain wave activity. This can be done with two channels, 4 channels or 6 channels of EEG, with or without physiology measures, depending on the encoder.

How does this assessment work?

One advantage that Biograph Infiniti has over other software is the ability to use a scripted session in which all the steps in the assessment are already programmed. The user simply reads the instructions on the screen and clicks a button to advance through the steps. You begin by recording with eyes closed, then with eyes open and then with a specific task such as reading. This sequence of steps is repeated the number of times necessary to end up with 18 sites of recording. For each sequence, the sensors are placed in different locations on the head and the task is different. Because it is a script, it’s as if someone is taking you by the hand and guiding you through the process.

How is the data interpreted?

When you’re finished with the recordings, you can easily transfer the data into a very sophisticated Excel workbook, which is the core of Peter Van Deusen’s approach. In this file system you find different ways of presenting and analysing the EEG data recorded during the assessment. There are many maps, tables, graphs, and guidelines to help you make sense of the data. Everything is structured to help you decide where to put the sensors for training and which frequency bands you should train first.

Are there other benefits to using the TLC approach?

One obvious benefit of this approach is the price. A full QEEG system (hardware and software) is very expensive. With the TLC approach, you use the same encoder to do the assessment that you use to provide neurofeedback training. Many professionals serious about working in this field refer to the TLC assessment as being the next best thing to a full QEEG.

Coming Soon...
Part 2 - Francois Dupont and Integrated Neurofeedback
Part 3 - Suites Under Development

We hope you will stop by to meet Francois Dupont and learn more about the neurofeedback education offered in our Learn From the Best program. Not attending ISNR but want to learn more? We offer software, interactive online learning and home study programs.

INFINITI FOR THE LEARNING CURVE SOFTWARE SUITE
Dr. Dupont's Infiniti for the Learning Curve software suite is available for direct download from the BFE Online Shop.

INFINITI FOR TLC ASSESSMENT ONLINE CLASS
Learn how to use the Infiniti for the Learning Curve software in a live interactive format.

TLC ASSESSMENT GRAND ROUNDS
If you are interested in learning more about the TLC approach, we are pleased to offer a series of online grand rounds sessions hosted by Peter Van Deusen. During the last series, Dr. Dupont was also on hand to offer his insights and to answer any technical questions that arose. ...

The Biofeedback Foundation of Europe provides education for experienced clinicians and researchers as well as for those just entering the field.

Visit the BFE Online Shop to learn more.

Gearing Up for ISNR: Linda Walker and Troubled Youth

2011-08-18T09:38:00.001-04:00

Several representatives from the BFE will be on hand at the upcoming ISNR Conference - September 14-18, 2011 in Phoenix, AZ. Among them will be Linda Walker, MHR, LPC, BCIA-EEG.

At the Thought Technology Ltd.
Silver Sponsor Booths 11 & 20

Linda Walker holds a master’s degree in Human Relations and Counseling from the University of Oklahoma and post graduate certificates in substance abuse and school counseling from Western Michigan University. She is licensed as a professional counselor and a school counselor in Michigan. In addition, she specializes in EMDR and substance use issues. Linda is certified in EEG biofeedback from the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance. She is currently in private practice in Michigan.

Nokomis Challenge Center

For over 12 years, Linda has worked with troubled youth and their families, most notably at Nokomis Challenge Center, a state training school for juvenile offenders in Michigan. At Nokomis, Linda was dedicated to developing and implementing the agency’s neurofeedback program. She served as an instructor and treatment group leader in the experiential wilderness therapy program. I recently spoke to Linda about her approach in working with this this population group. Here are some excerpts from that conversation:

When you say troubled youth, who exactly are you identifying as troubled youth?
Troubled youth are those adolescents and pre-adolescents who have either come to the attention of police or courts because of their behavior or delinquent acts within the community, or because of instability within the home. Those youth who have not dropped out of school or been expelled frequently have difficulty within the educational setting and are often functioning in special classrooms or settings. To make matters worse, their lives are often marked with trauma from abuse, loss or family chaos. Poverty and lack of family presence is common.

How do you assess these youth and direct treatment for them using new technologies?

It’s clear that adolescent problems and needs vary across a wide spectrum. Assessment of a teenager needs to pinpoint areas of need and identify strengths to determine appropriate candidates for neurofeedback and biofeedback, and guide the therapist in appropriate treatment modalities. Further, proper assessment and parsimonious treatment plans supported by evidence-based methods are critical to success in treating adolescents not only because of their educational and psychiatric challenges, but also because of their ever-changing emotional and physical growth.

Through the use of Quantitative Electroencephalogram (QEEG), we are able to recognize and assess patterns of brain activity that appear to typify common disorders, such as ADHD, depression, learning disabilities and anxiety. For those youth who need medications we provide referenced QEEG (rEEG) to assist our psychiatrist in pinpointing which drugs would benefit are clients most effectively within treatment.

We can also use more traditional testing instruments such as Test Of Variables of Attention (TOVA) to help identify issues of attention or the Millon Adolescent Clinical Inventory (MACI) to clarify psychiatric or behavioral issues. Observations from treatment team members and in-depth client interviews round out the assessment process. These methods and instruments help clarify what we observe in the QEEG.

What are the treatment and training goals for this population?

Based upon the assessment, appropriate treatment protocols are then directed for the individual youth. Both the youth and treatment team are involved in this process. For example, a youth's goals could be to reduce the following: controlling anger, depression or anxiety; being more focused; or performing mentally and physically at a peak level. The treatment team parental goals might include better recognition of boundaries (not getting into everything), less impulsivity, reducing off-focus, off-task behavior, developing social skills, improving empathy for others, better understanding of the effect of behavior on others or addressing substance abuse issues. Parental or familial goals might include helping the youth return home, having fewer contacts with the police or courts, staying in school and following house rules.

Clearly neurofeedback alone will not accomplish all of these goals. No one therapy can. But neurofeedback can play a key role in resolving underlying mood and cognitive functioning issues that exacerbate the behavioral problems of troubled youth. The training goals are tailored for each individual client. The areas of concern that the client describes and the assessment of the QEEG give us the direction of what areas of the brain to concentrate training on. The duration of the sessions can be tailored and monitored for success for each individual client. By using coaching and motivational techniques, we strive to create an environment that encourages success and progress. We use biofeedback, neurofeedback, and z-score training to accomplishing these goals.

We hope you will stop by to meet Linda Walker and learn more about the neurofeedback education offered in our Learn From the Best program. Not attending ISNR but want to learn more? We offer software, interactive online learning and home study programs.

TROUBLED YOUTH ONLINE CLASS RECORDINGS
Linda has just wrapped up recording of her Troubled Youth online class. The session recordings are available in the BFE Online Shop.

TROUBLED YOUTH SOFTWARE SUITE
Also available from the BFE is the Troubled Youth software suite that includes display screens based on Linda's work. This suite is compatible with the Biograph Infiniti software and is available as a download from our online shop.
...

Biofeedback Offers Help to Survivors of Japan's Earthquake and Tsunami

2011-08-04T21:48:00.001-04:00

Most of you are already well acquainted with the work of Dr. Erik Peper, renowned psychologist, educator, author and president of the Biofeedback Foundation of Europe. What you may not know is that he travels extensively teaching workshops in biofeedback around the world. Recently, he traveled to Japan to teach strategies to reduce stress and prevent PTSD with the help of biofeedback.

Disaster Strikes

On March 11, 2011, the world witnessed one of the most devastating natural disasters of our time: Japan’s earthquake, followed by a tsunami and then a nuclear disaster. We watched the events unfold and were shocked by the magnitude of suffering and loss. Then, we moved on with our lives. But for the people of Sendai, the healing process is only beginning and will last for years. Even after their physical needs are met the psychological scars remain.

In the Aftermath of the Earthquake and Tsunami

In response to the disaster, Dr. Erik Peper volunteered his time and traveled to Japan to offer a series of workshops on using biofeedback to treat stress and PTSD. Before he left, he secured a donation of 50 GSR2’s as these hand held, battery operated biofeedback devices would be ideal for bringing treatment to those affected. It is used as an educational tool to demonstrate and experience that emotions, thoughts, images and body are all interconnected. It helps the participants lower and experience control over their ongoing sympathetic arousal. During his stay, he shared his expertise with psychologists, physicians, health professionals and volunteers. The training programs were organized by:

Naoki Takebayashi, M.D, Head, Institute of Holistic and Integrative Medicine, Osaka, Japan
Morihiro Tsujishita, Professor, Konan Women University, Kobe, Japan
Tomo Nakagawa, Administrative Officer, Institute of Holistic and Integrative Medicine, Osaka, Japan

April 28, 2011 – Full Day Basic Course

Basic Medicine, Psychophysiology, Practical Training with Biofeedback Tools to Prevent and Reduce Stress and PTSD Associated with Tsunami Trauma

Konan Women University (for general volunteers)

April 28, 2011 – Evening Lecture

Behavioral, Cognitive Education to Prevent and Reduce Stress and PTSD Associated with Tsunami Trauma

Kansai Medical University (for physicians and other health professionals planning to work with people who experienced trauma)

April 29, 2011 – Full Day Advanced Seminar

Psychophysiology and Practical Training with Biofeedback Tools to Prevent and Reduce Stress and PTSD

Kansai Medical University (for health professionals and psychologists)

April 30, 2011 – Full Day Advanced Seminar

Training for Practitioners Headed to Iwata Prefecture

Konan Women University

Sponsored by: Konan Women University and the Institute of Holistic and Integrative Medicine

by permission from Naoki Takebayashi, MD

Training First Responders

When asked what it was like to be in Japan at this time, Dr. Peper replied, "Although it was and continues to be a major catastrophe, all the people I met wanted to contribute and help. They were appreciative that I came to teach, since so many foreigners left in panic and have cancelled their travel to Japan. The health care professionals are remarkable in volunteering to help in areas where the disaster occurred. The donation of equipment was very appreciated as it truly was a symbol that other people cared. I felt so fortunate to be able to share some of the self-regulation skills to support regeneration and inhibit vigilance. As I flew back to the USA on April 30^th, some of the students in the training program went to Iwate prefecture in the disaster area to teach and apply these self-regualtion skills."

Following Up on the Progress

Dr. Peper returned to Japan in July to teach a two day workshop in Iwate prefecture along with three more programs around Sendai. We look forward to hearing more from Dr. Peper and the health professionals he trained in Japan about the role of biofeedback in reducing the impact of the Tsunami. Meanwhile, our thoughts are with the people of Japan.

More About Dr. Erik Peper...

To learn more about Dr. Peper's methods consult his book Biofeedback Mastery: An Experiential Teaching and Self-Training Manual (co-authored with Hana Tylova, Katherine H. Gibney, Richard Harvey and Didier Combatalade and available through the AAPB or on amazon.com). Dr. Peper's software suite, Biofeedback Basics is a companion to his book and is available in the BFE online shop.

Photos courtesy of Dr. Erik Peper

Dr. Paul Swingle's NEW Grand Rounds

2011-07-07T12:43:00.086-04:00

Dr. Paul G. Swingle

We are pleased to welcome back Dr. Paul Swingle for another series of Grand Rounds! Our grand rounds sessions are an ideal way to expand your knowledge about a specific topic or method. They are presented in an interactive format in which participants have the opportunity to present case studies to Dr. Swingle for review. And, because the classes are taught online, you can attend from the comfort of your home or office.

The Thursday sessions are ideal for users of the BFE QuickQ and BrainDryvr suite with the ProComp/BioGraph Infiniti system. Dr. Swingle welcomes and encourages professionals using other hardware/software platforms to attend as well. The Tuesday sessions focus on the use of Mind Work Station software with Infiniti. Dates for the summer and fall sessions are as follows:

QuickQ & BrainDryvr - Dr. Swingle and Associates
Thursday's 3:00 - 4:00 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)
SUMMER SERIES: July 14th | August 11th | September 15th
FALL SERIES: October 13th | November 10th | December 8th

Infiniti & Mind Work Station - Elizabeth Tegan & Dr. Swingle
Tuesday's 11:00 - 12:00 AM Eastern Time (US & Canada)
SUMMER SERIES: July 12th | August 9th | September 13th
FALL SERIES: October 11th | November 8th | December 6th

The price for each 3-session series is $149.00 USD. To register, click here or visit the BFE Online Shop at http://www.bfe.org/buy/

Some feedback from past sessions...

"A few months ago, I became an affiliate with Dr. Swingle’s BFE team and greatly benefited from the teaching, supervision and webinars. I appreciate your "expert suites" that provide assessment ability supported by screens that "work". I am especially very pleased with the online case study discussions with experts. Over the years, following a 2-3 day workshop, I found myself in great need of "integration" when back in my office struggling with challenges from peculiar clients. The monthly meetings online with Dr. Swingle provide wonderful occasions to bring, as they come, these specific concerns to the "expert" and receive his insightful comments. This increases my efficiency with my clients making me feel and look very good!!! It also widens my understanding as I listen to other professionals' present their own unique set of challenges followed by Dr Swingle's point of view and input on how to address them. All that in the comfort of my office at convenient time slots!"
Dr. Suzanne Day

"I have got to say that the Quick Q is really amazing. I thank Dr. Paul Swingle for this. I have seen amazing changes in one of my students after doing only a few neurofeedback sessions that were done after doing a Quick Q and having Dr. Swingle give me advice at one of his Grand Rounds group sessions on-line. This student is also working on heart rate coherence and hand temperature. The combination has been great. Releasing alpha in the back of the head made a huge difference."
Meredith Caplan, LH

Thanks to all participants who joined us for the last session and shared their knowledge with others. We look forward to seeing you at the next session and are always glad to welcome newcomers. Remember, space is limited so register early.

TLC Assessment and Integrated Neurofeedback Training

2011-07-06T20:21:00.018-04:00

Peter Van Deusen

Next week we are happy to welcome Peter Van Deusen and Dr. Francois Dupont to lead an online grand rounds session on TLC Assessment and Integrated Neurofeedback Training.

TLC Assessment and Integrated Neurofeedback Training

Monday, July 11, 2011

9:00 - 10:00 Eastern Time

(New York & Canada)

Dr. Dupont

This session is ideal for users of the BFE Infiniti for The Learning Curve software suite with the ProComp Infiniti system. Peter will present a few case studies, then will open up the meeting to participants who will have a chance to discuss their own challenging cases with Peter. Dr. Dupont will be on hand throughout the session to answer questions related to the TLC software suite as well as the BFE Integrated Neurofeedback suite.

The price to attend this new session is $49.00 USD.
To register, click here or visit our online shop at: http://www.bfe.org/buy/

Whether you are just getting started with the software or are an experienced user, you will benefit from the interactive format of these sessions. Class size is limited so register early!

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Infiniti for the Learning Curve Grand Rounds

2011-06-23T10:17:00.007-04:00

We are pleased to welcome Peter Van Deusen as a first time presenter at a BFE Online Event. Peter began training his own brain in 1991 and studied the theories, philosophies and techniques of many leaders in the field of brain training. In 2001 he began training other professionals, as well as home users. He has presented throughout the US, Europe and South America. The assessment tools he has developed are used by thousands of brain trainers around the world.

This summer we are offering two new online Grand Rounds sessions specifically designed for users of Peter Van Deusen's software suite - Infiniti for The Learning Curve.

EEG Assessment for Traumatic Brain Injury

Monday - June 27, 2011

9:00 - 10:00 AM Eastern Time

In this session Linda Walker, MHR, LPC, BCIA-EEG will discuss TBI among combat veterans and how to use the The Learning Curve (TLC) and Z-Scores (Thatcher) Assessment tools with this population. Peter Van Deusen will be on hand to take questions from participants on the use of his TLC database.

TLC Assessment and Integrated Neurofeedback Training

Monday - July 11, 2011

9:00 - 10:00 AM Eastern Time

Hosted by Peter Van Deusen, this session will include case studies presented by Peter and other participants. There will also be a Q&A Session during which attendees can ask Peter questions about interpreting TLC data. Dr. Francois Dupont will also be participating in this event and will discuss an/or answer questions about his Integrated Neurofeedback suite.

Both sessions offer APA continuing education credits. For more details, please visit the BFE Online Shop, or contact the Infiniti for the Learning Curve Online Team at bluetlcassessment@gmail.com.

Hope to see you there!

Brain Awareness Week - March 14-20, 2011

2011-03-14T09:44:00.016-04:00

We are pleased to announce that we have just been approved by the Dana Foundation as a partner in Brain Awareness Week!

As stated on the official website, "Brain Awareness Week (BAW) is the global campaign to increase public awareness about the progress and benefits of brain research. Every March BAW unites the efforts of organizations worldwide in a week-long celebration of the brain."

"During BAW campaign partners organize activities to educate and excite people of all ages about the brain and brain research. Events are limited only by the organizers’ imaginations. Examples include open days at neuroscience laboratories; museum exhibitions about the brain; lectures on brain-related topics; displays at malls, libraries, and community centers; and classroom workshops."

Daily Webinar on Research Topics in Neurofeedback
The BFE will be presenting a daily webinar on Research Topics in Neurofeedback. During this lecture, Mark Schwartz introduces research being conducted by online teams from around the world. Electroencephalography (EEG) biofeedback, also known as neurofeedback and neurotherapy, is hailed by some as an exciting new method to assess and treat clients diagnosed with mental disorders, and criticized by others as an unproven, controversial and poorly controlled fad.

Mark Schwartz, MBA, BSc. Hons is the director of the "Learn From the Best" program run by the Biofeedback Foundation of Europe. He has presented at conferences and led workshops on biofeedback since 1996.

Register Now and Receive BAW Discount
In support of Brain Awareness Week, we are offering all attendees a special price of $20.00 US ($49.00 off the regular price of $69.00 US). For more details or to register, click here.

For more information on BFE Neurofeedback Teams,
contact the team coordinator at blueirep@gmail.com.

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2011 Webinar's Underway

2011-02-09T12:53:00.029-05:00

The BFE kicked off its 2011 Webinar Series with three events in January. These 1-hour webinars are ideal for newcomers to biofeedback as well as for experienced practitioners eager to learn the latest techniques being used in the field. Our January lineup included:

QuickQ and BrainDryvr Focusing on Addictions

Dr. Paul G. Swingle

Brainwave patterns associated with the different addictions disorders were reviewed and the relevant braindriving protocols to treat the various forms of these disorders were discussed. Dr. Swingle reviewed in detail the initial brain assessments and treatment procedures and focused on the many contributory causes of addictive behavior.

Glazer Gastrointestinal Disorders Webinar

Dr. Howard Glazer

Dr. Glazer discussed the importance of the pelvic floor muscles for a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders such as chronic constipation, fecal incontinence and others. Dr. Glazer reviewed some of the research conducted in collaboration with colorectal surgeon, Shuqing Ding M.D., Attending doctor, National Center of Colorectal disease of Chinese Medicine Nanjing Municipal Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, 3rd affiliated hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine in Nanjing.

Introduction to Physiological Dentistry

Dr. Jeffrey Hindin

Dr. Hindin discussed the importance of physiological dentistry for a wide range of stress related dental patients. The webinar introduced an innovative system to monitor physiologic functions and incorporate biofeedback modalities into patient care. Dr. Jeffrey Hindin, described how he uses this system to observe and record objective changes before and after the insertion of an orthotic and with each subsequent modification or adjustment.

The BFE would like to thank the presenters as well as all those who attended the events. Recordings of past webinars are available in the BFE Online Shop along with information about upcoming webinars.

Remember to visit the shop often as new information is posted weekly!

BFE 15th Annual Meeting - Munich, Germany

2011-01-11T15:43:00.018-05:00

February 22-26, 2011 - Munich, Germany

Final preparations are underway for our 15th Annual Meeting to be held in Munich, Germany from February 22-26, 2011. We are pleased to announce that Lufthansa Airlines will be the official carrier for the event. Full details on how to take advantage of the discounted fares offered by Lufthansa are now on our website. For more information, click here.

This year we look forward to welcoming a variety of presenters - some who we know very well and others who will join us for the first time. Among the scheduled presenters are:

Drs. Lynda and Michael Thompson

Neuroanatomical Underpinnings of Effective Intervention with Asperger's and Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Dr. Jan van Dixhoorn
Manual Assessment of Respiratory Movement (MARM)

Dr. Erik Peper

Advanced Clinical Techniques and BCIA Supervision

Dr. Paul G. Swingle

Basics of the QuickQ Assessment and Braindriving

For the full workshop schedule, click here. Remember to register soon, if you haven't already, to guarantee a place in the workshop(s) of your choice.

We look forward to seeing you in Munich! And although we can't promise a volcano, we can promise a very enriching experience. Monika Fuhs summed up last year's meeting like this:

"The conference ended with the awareness that that people couldn’t go home as expected and I, as the organizer, was a bit worried about complaints and problems that could arise due to these circumstances. However it was different – it seemed that our group was not only different in what they were doing but also in their living philosophy. People used the disaster of the volcano eruption as a opportunity to extend their stay and joined those who couldn’t leave. We formed groups that were just enjoying themselves in Rome and forged friendships and created social support. The crisis was transformed into new opportunities of growth."

Best Wishes for 2011!

Dysphagia in Asia

2010-09-10T20:44:00.011-04:00

This past summer, Dr. Catriona Steele was invited to present Dysphagia workshops in China and Korea as part of the BFE Learn From the Best initiative. Dr. Steele is a scientist and Director of the Swallowing Rehabilitation Research Laboratory at the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute. Her teaching experience includes face-to-face and web-based University courses, and many workshops and invited lectures across North America, Europe, China, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.

Dr. Catriona Steele and Dr. Zulin Dou

Dysphagia Workshop – China - July 17, 2010

The workshop in China was hosted by Dr. Zulin Dou, Director of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at Sun Yat-sen University in Gunagzhou and Dr. Hongmei Wen, Ph.D. in Neurology and associate professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. Dr. Dou is also the author of the book Assessment and Treatment of Dysphagia for which Dr. Wen has written the section on sEMG.

Dr. Steele presented her half-day workshop on evidence-based practice in swallowing assessment and Dysphagia rehabilitation with a focus on sEMG biofeedback to 70 physicians and therapists. Earlier in the day, she had the opportunity to consult with Dr. Wen on several challenging cases and looks forward to the potential of future collaboration with Dr. Dou, whose interests include the use of biofeedback in psychology and continence/pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation as well as Dysphagia.

Special thanks to the hosts for their warm welcome and for having the presentation materials translated to Chinese. We would also like to thank Vish Medical for its financial support of this event.

Dr. Steele with members of the KASLP

Dysphagia Workshop – Korea – July 24, 2010

Dr. Steele’s workshop in Seoul was graciously hosted by Miseon Kwon, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Research Professor, Dept. of Neurology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and was sponsored by the Korean Association of Speech Language Pathologists (KASLP). Also present was Dr. Do-Heung Ko, a prominent researcher in speech science and president of the KASLP. The half-day workshop was attended by 200 Speech Language Pathologists.

Sincere thanks to the Dr. Kwon for providing a superb translator and for all her work to make the day a success. We would also like to thank Thought Technology for its sponsorship of this event.

Online Dysphagia Training

Dr. Steele teaches several BFE online classes on Dysphagia. During monthly “grand rounds” sessions participants are offered the opportunity to present case studies to the group and to consult with Dr. Steele. Click here for more information on the Dysphagia software suite and online classes.