Please find here a selection of current neurofeedback studies:

 

ILF Neurofeedback Mechanisms and Neurophysiology 

Dobrushina, O. et al. (2020). Modulation of Intrinsic Brain Connectivity by Implicit Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 14: 192. 

Grin-Yatsenko, V., Kara, O., Evdokimov, S., Gregory, M., Othmer, S. & Kropotov, J. (2020). Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback Modulates Infra-Slow Oscillations of Brain Potentials: A Controlled Study. Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Research, 4, 1-11.

Grin-Yatsenko, V. A., Ponomarev, V. A., Kara, O., Wandernoth, B., Gregory, M., Ilyukhina, V. A., & Kropotov, J. D. (2018). Effect of Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback on Infra-Slow EEG Fluctuations. In Biofeedback. IntechOpen

Dobrushina, O. R. et al. (2018) Exploring the brain contour of implicit infra-low frequency EEG neurofeedback: a resting state fMRI study. Int. J. Psychophysiol. 131, S76 (2018).

Arina, G., Osina, E., Dobrushina, O. & Aziatskaya, G. (2017). Sham-neurofeedback as an intervention: Placebo or nocebo? European Psychiatry, 41, 253-254. 

Altan, S., Berberoglu, B., Canan, S. & Dane, S. (2016). Effects of neurofeedback therapy in healthy young subjects. Clin invest Med 39, 27–30. 

Dobrushina, O. et al. (2015). The effect of Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback on default mode network of the brain. Conference paper at Applied Neuroscience and Social Well being, Moscow. (in Russian).

Othmer S., Othmer S.F., Kaiser D. & Putman J. (2013). Endogenous Neuromodulation at Infra-Low Frequencies. Seminars in Paediatric Neurology, 20(4), 246-257.

Legarda S., McMahon D., Othmer S. & Othmer SF. (2011). Clinical Neurofeedback: Case Studies, Proposed Mechanism and Implication for Paediatric Neurology Practice. Journal of Child Neurology, 26(8), 1045-1051.

Othmer S., Othmer SF. & Legarda S. (2011). Clinical Neurofeedback: Training Brain Behavior. Pediatric Neurology and Psychiatry, 2, 67-73.

Seuß S, Riederle J. Erfahrungen mit Neurofeedback in der therapeutischen Praxis. Prax Ergotherapie. 2021;2:75–81. 

Fleischman, M. J. (2022). Documenting the Impact of Infra Low Frequency Neurofeedback on Underserved Populations With Complex Clinical Presentations. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–9.

Bazzana F, Finzi S, Di Fini G and Veglia F (2022) Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback: A Systematic Mixed Studies Review. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:920659. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.920659

Kropotov JD (2022) The enigma of infra-slow fluctuations in the human EEG Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:928410. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.928410

ILF Neurofeedback in latest clinical application

Addiction 

Corominas-Roso, M. et al. (2020). Benefits of EEG-Neurofeedback on the Modulation of Impulsivity in a Sample of Cocaine and Heroin Long-Term Abstinent Inmates: A Pilot Study. International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 64(12), 1275-1298.

ADHD 

Schneider, H., Riederle, J. & Seuss, S. (2021). Therapeutic Effect of Infra-Low_Frequency Neurofeedback Training on Children and Adolescents with ADHD. In: Brain-Computer Interface, Vahid Asadpour ed., IntechOpen Limited, 2021:13, doi: 10.5772/intechopen.97938

Ahlstrand, P. & Grattbeck, M. Neurofeedback - ett behandlingsalternativ vid ADHD. (2013).

Prinz, W. (2015). Neurofeedbacktherapie als Spezialtherapieangebot. Psychopraxis. Neuropraxis 18, 180–183.

Flatz, T. & Gleußner, M. (2014). Neurofeedbacktherapie bei ADHS und Autismus. Pädiatrie & Pädologie 49, 22–27.

Aging & Parkinson’s

Dobrushina, O. R. et al. (2022). Enhancing Brain Connectivity With Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback During Aging : A Pilot Study. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–12.

Legarda SB, Michas-Martin PA and McDermott D (2022) Managing Intractable Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease: A Nonsurgical Approach Employing Infralow Frequency Neuromodulation. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:894781. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.894781

Autism 

Rauter, A., Schneider, H. & Prinz, W. (2022). Effectivity of ILF Neurofeedback on Autism spectrum disorder – a Case Study. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16.

Prinz, W. (2015). Neurofeedbacktherapie als Spezialtherapieangebot. psychopraxis. neuropraxis 18, 180-183. (in German) 

Flatz, T. & Gleußner, M. (2014). Neurofeedbacktherapie bei ADHS und Autismus. Pädiatrie & Pädologie 49, 22–27.

Othmer S. & Othmer S.F. (2011). Neurofeedback for the Autism Spectrum. In K. Siri and T. Lyons (Eds.), Cutting-Edge Therapies for Autism (262-267). Skyhorse Publishing.

Rauter, A., Schneider, H., Prinz, W. & Study, C. (2022). Effectivity of ILF Neurofeedback on Autism Spectrum Disorder — A Case Study. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–6.

Brain Injury

Carlson, J. & Ross, G. (2021). Neurofeedback Impact on Chronic Headache, Sleep and Attention Disorders Experienced by Veterans with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Pilot Study. Biofeedback, 49(1), 2-9. 

Annaheim C, Hug K, Stumm C, Messerli M, Simon Y and Hund-Georgiadis M (2022) Neurofeedback in patients with frontal brain lesions: A randomized, controlled double-blind trial. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:979723. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.979723

Depression 

Grin-Yatsenko, V. A. et al. (2018) Infra-low frequency neurofeedback in depression: Three case studies. NeuroRegulation 5, 30–42.

Grin-Yatsenko, V. A., & Kropotov, J. D. (2020). Effect of infra-low frequency neurofeedback on the functional state of the brain in health and depressed individuals. In H. W. Kirk (Ed.), Restoring the brain: Neurofeedback as an integrative approach to health (2nd ed.). Routledge, pp. 244-255.

Eating disorders

Chirita-Emandi, A., & Puiu, M. (2014). Outcomes of neurofeedback training in childhood obesity management: A pilot study. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 20(11), 831–837. 

Leong, S. L., Vanneste, S., Lim, J., Smith, M., Manning, P., & De Ridder, D. (2018). A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel trial of closed-loop infraslow brain training in food addiction. Scientific reports, 8(1), 1-9.

Winkeler, A., Winkeler, M. & Imgart, H. (2022). Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in the Treatment of Patients With Chronic Eating Disorder and Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–11..

Fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Concussion 

Ingvaldsen, S. H. (2019). QEEG and Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback Training in Fibromyalgia: A Pilot Study (Master's thesis, NTNU).

Lamprecht, C. E. (2019). The effect of neurofeedback in post-concussion syndrome. Doctoral dissertation, Stellenbosch University. 

Legarda, S. B., Lahti, C. E., Mcdermott, D. & Michas-martin, A. (2022). Use of Novel Concussion Protocol With Infralow Frequency Neuromodulation Demonstrates Significant Treatment Response in Patients With Persistent Postconcussion Symptoms , a Retrospective Study. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–16.

Dobrushina, O. R., Varako, N. A., Kovyazina, M. S. & Zinchenko, Y. P. (2016). Combination of Neurofeedback and cognitive training in attention deficit due to multiple sclerosis. Int. J. Psychophysiol. 108, 118. 

Insomnia

Orakpo N, Yuan C, Olukitibi O, Burdette J and Arrington K (2022) Does Virtual Reality Feedback at Infra-Low Frequency Improve Centralized Pain With Comorbid Insomnia While Mitigating Risks for Sedative Use Disorder?: A Case Report. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:915376. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.915376

Moore PT (2022) Infra-low frequency neurofeedback and insomnia as a model of CNS dysregulation. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:959491. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.959491

Migraine & Tension Headache

Dobrushina, O., Arina, G., Osina, E. & Aziatskaya, G. (2017). Clinical and psychological confirmation of stabilizing effect of neurofeedback in migraine. European Psychiatry, 41.

Arina, G. A. et al. (2022). Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in Tension-Type Headache : A Cross-Over Sham-Controlled Study. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–9.

Legarda SB, Michas-Martin PA and McDermott D (2022) Remediating Intractable Headache: An Effective Nonpharmacological Approach Employing Infralow Frequency Neuromodulation. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:894856. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.894856

Pain

Orakpo N, Yuan C, Olukitibi O, Burdette J and Arrington K (2022) Does Virtual Reality Feedback at Infra-Low Frequency Improve Centralized Pain With Comorbid Insomnia While Mitigating Risks for Sedative Use Disorder?: A Case Report. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:915376. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.915376

Persistent  postural-perceptual dizziness

Sasu R (2022) Infra-low frequency neurofeedback in persistent postural-perceptual dizziness—Case report. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:959579. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.959579

PTSD

Gerge, A. (2020). A multifaceted case-vignette integrating neurofeedback and EMDR in the treatment of complex PTSD. European Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, 4(3), 100157.

Nilsson, R. M. & Nilsson, V. (2014). Neurofeedback Treatment for Traumatized Refugees-A Pilot Study. Lund University, Department of Psychology.

Othmer, S., Othmer, S. F. & Legarda, S. B. (2011). Clinical Neurofeedback: Training Brain Behavior. Treat. Strateg. Pediatr. Neurol. Psychiatry 2, 67–73. 

Othmer, S. & Othmer, S. F. (2009). Post Traumatic Stress Disorder—The Neurofeedback Remedy. Biofeedback 37, 24–31.

Dahl, M. G. (2020). Neurofeedback with PTSD and traumatic brain injury. In H. W. Kirk (Ed.), Restoring the brain:Neurofeedback as an integrative approach to health (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Routledge, pp.256-284.

Spreyermann, R. (2022). Case Report : Infra-Low-Frequency Neurofeedback for PTSD : A Therapist ’ s Perspective. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16.

Winkeler, A., Winkeler, M. & Imgart, H. (2022). Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in the Treatment of Patients With Chronic Eating Disorder and Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–11.

Kirk HW and Dahl MG (2022) Infra Low Frequency Neurofeedback Training for Trauma Recovery: A Case Report. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:905823. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.905823

Refractory neurological disorders (Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy)

Legarda, S. B., McMahon, D., Othmer, S. S. & Othmer, S. S. (2011). Clinical neurofeedback: Case studies, proposed mechanism, and implications for pediatric neurology practice. J. Child Neurol. 26, 1045–1051. 

Schizophrenia

Nestoros JN and Vallianatou NG (2022) Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback rapidly ameliorates schizophrenia symptoms: A case report of the first session. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:923695. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.923695

Tinnitus

Güntensperger, D. (2018). Treatment of chronic tinnitus with neurofeedback. (Doctoral Dissertation, University of Zurich). (Attn: they have primarily used frequency band NFB training in their studies and are (just) referring to ILF-NFB) 

Güntensperger, D., Thüring, C., Meyer, M., Neff, P. Kleinjung, T. (2017). Neurofeedback for Tinnitus Treatment - Review and Current Concepts. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 9,386.  (Attn: they have primarily used frequency band NFB training in their studies and are (just) referring to ILF-NFB) 

Tourette

Solberg B and Solberg E (2022) Infra-low frequency neurofeedback in application to Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders: A clinical case series. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16:891924. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.891924

Virtual Reality NFB in Pain Treatment 

Orakpo, N., Vieux, U. & Castro-Nunez, C. (2021). Case Report: Virtual Reality Neurofeedback Therapy as a Novel Modality for Sustained Analgesia in Centralized Pain Syndromes. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 418. DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.660105 

Orakpo, N., Yuan, C., Olukitibi, O., Burdette, J. & Arrington, K. (2022).Does Virtual Reality Feedback at Infra-Low Frequency Improve Centralized Pain With Comorbid Insomnia While Mitigating Risks for Sedative Use Disorder ?: A Case Report. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 16, 1–5.

Books and book chapters on ILF Neurofeedback

Othmer S. (2019). Protocol Guide for Neurofeedback Clinicians, 7th Edition. EEG Info

Kirk H. (2015) Restoring the Brain: Neurofeedback as an Integrative Approach to Health. CRC Press, Taylor and Francis Group.

Othmer, S. & Othmer, S. F. (2011). Performance Enhancement Applications of Neurofeedback. In Case Studies in Applied Psychophysiology: Neurofeedback and Biofeedback Treatments for Advances in Human Performance 17–30. Wiley-Blackwell.

Kirk, H. W. (2020) Restoring the Brain: Neurofeedback as an Integrative Approach to Health. Second Edition, Routledge, Taylor and Francis Group.  

 

 

Eight patients with tension headache received 10 sessions of ILF neurofeedback and 10 sessions of sham neurofeedback in random order. The intervention was in addition to a baseline psychotherapeutic intervention. Results of the study titled "Infra-Low Frequency Neurofeedback in Tension-Type Headache: A Cross-Over Sham-Controlled Study" from Arina et al. showed that compared to sham treatment, the frequency of headaches after treatment with ILF neurofeedback, was significantly lower.

 

Neurofeedback and headache

Although neurofeedback is increasingly used for chronic pain, its effectiveness for headaches has been little studied. Yet headaches are among the most common conditions; 38% of the adult population actively suffers from tension headaches (Jensen and Stovner, 2008). In treatment, non-drug treatments, including biofeedback and neuromodulation, are promising alternatives to medication (Nestoriuc et al., 2008; Bendtsen et al., 2010; Ailani et al., 2021).

Neurofeedback uses brain signals and aims to therapeutically modulate a dysfunctional brain state, such as an imbalance in electroencephalographic (EEG) activity or altered intrinsic connectivity patterns (Ros et al., 2013; Marzbani et al., 2016; Nicholson et al., 2016; Dobrushina et al., 2020). In the present study, infra-low frequency (ILF) neurofeedback was applied, which targets the slow brain fluctuations. In practice, neurofeedback is already widely used in the treatment of headache (Othmer, 2017). However, a sham-controlled study in patients with tension headache has not yet been conducted.

 

Study and methods

The aim of the present study was therefore to evaluate the effects of low-frequency EEG neurofeedback in patients with tension headache using a sham-controlled cross-over study. 8 patients, aged between 18 and 45 years, diagnosed with tension headache, received 10 sessions of neurofeedback treatment and 10 sessions of sham neurofeedback treatment in two intervention phases. The order (neurofeedback first or sham neurofeedback first) was randomized. In addition, the mechanisms of tension headache, including the benign nature of the headache and the risk of medication overdose, and progressive muscle relaxation training were explained to all participating subjects. Patients received an audio recording of the relaxation technique and were asked to use it three times per week. During the study period, participating subjects were required to keep a headache diary that included information on the duration and intensity of headaches and medication use. 
Neurofeedback sessions were conducted according to the Othmer protocol. Furthermore, the NeuroAmp as well as the Cygnet software of the BEE Medic company were used.

Results and implications

 

Results of the study showed a significant effect of neurofeedback and no effect of sham sessions. Treatment with neurofeedback reduced the frequency of tension headaches. Sham sessions, on the other hand, resulted in a placebo effect in one participant and a nocebo effect in two others. Furthermore, it was found that beliefs about neurofeedback and behavior during the sessions did not influence the effectiveness of neurofeedback.

In conclusion, the results of the study support the use of low-frequency neurofeedback in the integrative treatment of patients with tension headaches.

Read the entire study here.

References

Ailani, J., Burch, R. C., and Robbins, M. S. (2021). The American Headache Society Consensus Statement: update on integrating new migraine treatments into clinical practice. Headache J. Head Face Pain 61, 1021–1039. doi: 10.1111/head.14153

Bendtsen, L., Evers, S., Linde, M., Mitsikostas, D. D., Sandrini, G., and Schoenen, J. (2010). EFNS guideline on the treatment of tension-type headache - Report of an EFNS task force. Eur. J. Neurol. 17, 1318–1325. doi: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2010.03070.x

Dobrushina, O. R., Vlasova, R. M., Rumshiskaya, A. D., Litvinova, L. D., Mershina, E. A., Sinitsyn, V. E., et al. (2020). Modulation of intrinsic brain connectivity by implicit electroencephalographic neurofeedback. Front. Hum. Neurosci. 14:192. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.00192

Jensen, R., and Stovner, L. J. (2008). Epidemiology and comorbidity of headache. Lancet Neurol. 7, 354–361. doi: 10.1016/S1474-4422(08)70062-0

Marzbani, H., Marateb, H. R., and Mansourian, M. (2016). Neurofeedback: a comprehensive review on system design, methodology and clinical applications. Basic Clin. Neurosci. 7, 143–158. doi: 10.15412/J.BCN.03070208

Nestoriuc, Y., Rief, W., and Martin, A. (2008). Meta-analysis of biofeedback for tension-type headache: efficacy, specificity, and treatment moderators. J. Consult. Clin. Psychol. 76, 379–396. doi: 10.1037/0022-006X.76.3.379
 

 

Webinar on World Mental Health Day
 

October 10 is World Mental Health Day. Based on the motto "Talking lifts your spirits - mentally healthy in our society", BEE Medic GmbH is hosting a free webinar entitled "Let's talk about neurofeedback" at 6:00 pm. Neurofeedback experts Dr. Meike Wiedemann and Veronika Kreitmayr will discuss the questions of what it actually means to be mentally healthy, what role neurofeedback can play in therapy and, above all, how therapists can benefit from working with neurofeedback.

Mental health is an essential factor for our quality of life. Especially the pandemic of the last years has increased the awareness for this, but the need for effective therapy as well as the load for therapists has increased significantly. Neurofeedback can play an important role here, on the one hand as an effective therapy module for patients, on the other hand it can also facilitate the everyday work of behavior therapists.

The expert webinar on October 10, 2022, will cover how.
"Let's Talk About Neurofeedback"
Live from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with Dr. rer. nat. Meike Wiedemann and Veronika Kreitmayr.

The webinar is aimed at therapeutic and health care professionals working in behavioral and psychotherapeutic settings from the fields of (child and adolescent) psychiatry, (neuro)psychology, or occupational therapy, as well as other professional groups.

All participants can ask questions and participate in live discussions via a chat tool.
Participation is free of charge and possible after registration under the following link.

Please be aware that the webinar is held in German language.

 

 

The experts:
 

Dr. Meike Wiedemann is a neurobiologist. In her research for European space agencies (ESA, DLR, CNES) she investigated the effects of gravitational conditions on the brain. She first encountered neurofeedback in 1995 as part of her university work. Fascinated by the effects, she completed a naturopathic training in order to be able to work with neurofeedback. Since 2002 she runs a neurofeedback practice in Stuttgart. Since 2009 she is active in teaching and leads the training department at BEE Medic. She is author and co-author of several articles and reference books, including the standard work "Praxisbuch Biofeedback und Neurofeedback", published by Springer Medizin Verlag, and "Neurofeedback: Wie eine spielerisch leichte Therapie dem Gehirn hilft, Probleme zu überwinden", published by Kösel Verlag.

Veronika Kreitmayr studied psychology at the University of Vienna. In her professional career, she worked for 12 years as a sports psychologist for the Red Bull Training and Diagnostic Center, where she worked with various neurofeedback approaches. In 2016, she founded her own practice near Salzburg, where she specializes mainly in peak performance, but also mental illness. She also works internationally as a lecturer in neurofeedback and trains colleagues in German and English to work with neurofeedback.

Mental Health Week

Mental health is an essential factor for our quality of life. Especially in recent years, the topic has become a focus of attention. At the same time, the need for support and therapy has increased, as has the workload for therapists. 

This is also illustrated by a study conducted by the DAK in 2021, which shows that the number of days of absence due to mental illness increased again in 2021. At 276 days of absence per 100 insured persons, a new all-time high has been reached. A large proportion of the absences are due to depression. The consequences are far-reaching. Both for patients, who urgently need access to therapy, and for therapists, whose waiting lists continue to grow.

Mental Health Week, which takes place October 10-20, also revolves around the topic. Under this year's motto "Talking lifts the spirits - mentally healthy in our society", the focus is on getting into conversation with each other, developing understanding for each other and removing the taboos surrounding mental illness.

 

Neurofeedback and Mental Health

We also want to join this motto on the World Mental Health Day. Therefore, we would like to talk about Neurofeedback, which can be a building block in the therapy of mental illnesses. Neurofeedback aims to improve the brain's ability to self-regulate and thus, above all, to alleviate symptoms of mental illness. By focusing on symptom improvement, Neurofeedback brings a certain lightness to therapy, because it usually becomes apparent very quickly whether patients respond to Neurofeedback. First successes motivate and also especially performance-oriented people usually find a good access to Neurofeedback, because it does not "feel like therapy" at all. The setting is relaxing and the brain does the Neurofeedback "by itself". And also for therapists Neurofeedback usually means calm work and thus also relief and ease into the daily therapy routine.

 

Expert talk on World Mental Health Day

Therefore, we will talk about Neurofeedback and mental health in an exciting webinar with Neurofeedback experts Dr. rer. nat. Wiedemann and Veronika Kreitmayr on October 10.  Among other things, they will talk about what mental health actually means and how Neurofeedback can help, as well as about their personal experiences and how they benefit from Neurofeedback. 

Please note that the webinar will be held in German. 

 

Inviation to the open house at BEE Medic

We would also like to meet you personally and therefore open the doors of our office in Forchheim on Saturday, 10/15/22. In addition to exciting presentations on the topic of Neurofeedback, you will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with our experts on site. For professional users we also offer live demonstrations of a Neurofeedback setting.

More information on the webinar and the open house can be found here.

Source: https://www.dak.de/dak/bundesthemen/krankenstand-2021-2526908.html#/

 

 

We talked to Ms Alberta Hildebrand, head of the step-by course programme of the Child and Autism Foundation. In the interview she told us more about the goals of the foundation and about their experiences with Neurofeedback in ASD.

Dear Ms Hildbrand, thank you very much for taking the time to talk to us. What exactly does the Child and Autism Foundation do?

 

The Child and Autism Foundation is a competence centre for children and adolescents with autism in Urdorf in the canton of Zurich. It was founded on the initiative of affected parents who set up a day special school for children with autism in 1975. Since then, the organisation has continued to develop and has established itself as a nationwide centre of excellence with a wide range of services for families where autism spectrum is an issue. In addition to a school home with a day special school, a boarding and driving service, a counselling centre and the early intervention area, we also run an aids shop and the step-by course programme.

We maintain a lively exchange with professionally related schools, counselling and specialist centres in Switzerland and abroad. In addition, we raise public awareness about autism. 

The Child and Autism Foundation employs around 100 people. It is a non-profit organisation and our work is financed by contributions from the federal government, cantons and municipalities, through counselling and courses for affected persons, families and institutions, as well as through donations.

 

You have already mentioned the step-by course programme, of which you are also the director. Who is the training programme aimed at and what is the goal of the programme?

 

The step-by course programme was founded by our foundation in 2004 and offers a wide range of further education, training and lectures on the autism spectrum. It is aimed at professionals from the fields of education, agogy, therapy, medicine and - depending on the course - also at parents and accompanying persons who live or work with people on the autism spectrum. The offer is very well received and we simply notice that the need for further training on the topic continues to grow. We therefore also offer individual training and courses for schools, institutions and other foundations, which are specifically tailored to their needs and topics. With this offer, we also want to pass on some of our many years of experience.

 

What is your experience with Neurofeedback?
 

Autism manifests itself differently depending on its severity and expression and can include various symptoms. These include withdrawal into a world of one's own thoughts, avoidance of contact with the environment, disturbances in speech and motor skills, low empathy for the emotions and needs of others, stereotypical movements and behaviours, and avoidance of physical contact. Neurofeedback can have an amazing effect in treating these accompanying symptoms of autism.
Autism cannot be cured causally, but can be treated therapeutically to the degree of severity. The treatment must be adapted to the individual patient as flexibly as the effects vary. Neurofeedback can therefore be one of the building blocks of a behavioural therapy treatment plan.

Parents whom I advise and support tell me that Neurofeedback helps their child in everyday life. For example, anxiety or anger can settle down, the child becomes calmer, calmer or can feel himself or herself better. The child, the teenager, but also the parents, can develop more self-confidence and self-esteem. It helps them to relax mentally so that they can concentrate better and interact more positively with their environment. 

 

Once a year you organise the so-called Autism Forum. What are the contents and goals and what is planned for this year?
 

Our Autism Forum provides a popular platform on the topic of autism. We facilitate networking and exchange for professionals, institutions, decision-makers, people working in the autism field and interested parties. The programme covers a wide range of current topics from early childhood to adulthood. We welcome nationally and internationally renowned experts as speakers. This year's forum will take place on 11 November 2022. The programme and invitation will soon be published on our website www.kind-autismus.ch.

 

Neuroscientist Dr. Ned Sahin was a keynote speaker at the 16th Autism Forum and said "I think I see the amazing hope that the right technology, the right neuroscience and the right humanistic approach can have for this set of potentially 70 million people". Do you think Neurofeedback can make a contribution here?
 

We think so. Of course, there is still a long way to go. Of course, we are still a long way from providing comprehensive services for families, but on the one hand, public interest in the autism spectrum is increasing and families are finding places to turn to. We are also working on building more competences and networks through our courses. On the other hand, there are more and more scientific findings and also new technological approaches that support children and young people and also positively support their environment.
All these developments are intertwined. We also see potential in Neurofeedback and I hope that Neurofeedback, as a component of various methods and approaches, can support many people affected in their everyday lives. 

 

Thank you for this interview!

 

Of course, you can learn highly effective Neurofeedback with us. But above all, it is our lecturers who make our courses so special. Reason for that is, you won’t learn Neurofeedback from trained sales personnel in one day with us, but from enthusiastic Neurofeedback practitioners. All of them are experts in their subject and have been working successfully with Neurofeedback in their own practice or clinic for years, with a lot of empathy and sensitivity. So we sat down with some of the lecturers on our team and simply asked them why they love teaching and what makes our courses so special. 

 

"You can somehow do Neurofeedback, or you can do it really well" 

When we enter the online meeting, Meike Wiedemann, Doris Engels and Horst Schneider are already in the middle of the conversation. Just yesterday, a very successful course in Switzerland came to an end and the three of them are having a lively exchange about it. The feedback from the participants was very good and Meike and Doris also enjoyed the course. We ask the three of them, representatives for the many others of our lecturers, why they actually like teaching so much. Meike doesn't ponder long and says: "With our courses we want to reach people who are in clinical work, people who do Neurofeedback all day. And we want them to do Neurofeedback well with our courses. Because you can do Neurofeedback somehow, or you can do it really well." Meike PhD, PD in Neurobiology & clinician in private practice says about herself that she was infected with the Neurofeedback virus more than 20 years ago. In the course of her scientific career she came across Neurofeedback, was fascinated by the effects, educated herself, attended courses worldwide, worked with all methods, landed at ILF Neurofeedback and finally stuck with it, "Simply because it is best".

With every sentence said Meike, Doris and Horst carried over the message of how great enthusiasm and passion everyone puts into teaching. "After our courses, we want our specialist colleagues to go out and be well prepared to practice. And simply, the more therapists work with Neurofeedback, the more people will have access to Neurofeedback. That's what drives us." says Doris, an occupational therapist, design therapist, and systemic therapist, as well as the owner of several practices.

"I understand what people are saying about your courses now."

The motivation is genuine. You can sense that in the interview and the participants in the courses also notice that. "We often get feedback that there is such a pleasant atmosphere in our courses. Afterwards people often say, “I understand what people are saying about your courses now”, Doris continues. When asked where this special atmosphere comes from, all three immediately agree: there is simply a friendly relationship among the team and the collaboration is characterized by mutual appreciation. Horst, who holds a degree in biology and a doctorate in neurophysiology, adds happily: "The harmony in the teaching teams radiates to course participants and simply creates a feel-good atmosphere. And, of course, we all bring professionalism and a lot of experience to the table. You just notice that." 

Neurofeedback expertise from various disciplines

The lecturers cover numerous disciplines from occupational therapy to psychotherapy, (pediatric and adolescent) medicine and psychiatry, (sports) psychology, neurobiology, neuropsychology and more - all are professionals with a healthcare, therapeutic and/or scientific background. Meike adds "Especially the different orientations and professions we have in the team makes the teaching so exciting and we complement each other perfectly." The diversity of teaching can also be seen in the wide range of courses offered. In addition to the basic course and symposium, there are numerous indication-specific courses in which guest lecturers also provide new, up-to-date, specialist input. Doris adds, "We are always up to date in the industry and informed about changes. In addition, we also benefit from this close exchange in our daily work. As part of this network, I can always develop myself as an experienced therapist."

 

The importance of self-awareness in Neurofeedback

The focus of each basic course is on self-experience with Neurofeedback. Especially through practical training and working in different roles should enable all participants of the course to quickly feel confident in using Neurofeedback.
"We know that our participants learn a lot in the few days of training. Because of self-awareness, the basic course is very intensive. But our participants leave the course feeling good about themselves, so they are ready for practice," says Meike. 
During the internship, participants are closely supervised - whether in face-to-face courses or online. The internship usually takes place in groups of two, closely supervised by the lecturers. Experiences and results are discussed in small groups in order to jointly work out the next steps for the following sessions.
In addition, there is of course always the possibility to set focal points in the courses and all participants can bring in their concerns, ranging from therapy of complex traumatization over ADHD up to Neurofeedback in the area of peak performance. It's also important to the instructors to keep an open mind and think outside the box. "We teach ILF Neurofeedback, but our roots are in other approaches as well. Therefore, we are always open to learn more about other Neurofeedback methods as well," says Horst Schneider.

 

Neurofeedback as a life theme

Finally, we asked what motivates the three of them to teach in addition to their daily practice. After all, courses that last several days mean additional work. Meike answers immediately: "Neurofeedback is my life theme. I am convinced that it is good and therefore I want to teach it properly and thus help it to spread. When I started back then, I had to gather so much. Of course I took courses, the ones that were available at the time (laughs), but I still had to train myself for years and go deeper and deeper so that I could use it in a meaningful way. Until I arrived in the USA at EEG Info and after that it was clear to me what I would like to build up and pass on here. Now I am convinced that you can learn Neurofeedback faster and better with our courses than in the way I had to do it". Doris associates with Meike Wiedemann's response: "When I started teaching, for sure I thought about how I would do it alongside my practice. But I felt comfortable right from the start and had a good induction here. Mistakes can be made. And I always had experienced colleagues by my side at the courses. As I said, it's teamwork. No one is left alone. And now I have quite a bit of experience. Everything I've learned I can now pass on - that's something nice!". "There's nothing to add to that" adds Horst, also with a smile on his face.

 

Our training team

By following this link, you will find an overview of some profiles of our lecturers, including those of Meike, Doris and Horst. All of them have passed the certification at EEG Info Europe and are constantly training according to our quality assurance. And we are happy to see our team grow! You can find more info on LinkedIn or here.

 
Linkedin: BEE Medic GmbH | LinkedIn

 

The brain is a very complex organ and the interaction between anatomical and functional networks of the brain is a current topic in psychopathology research and therapeutic discussion.
Olga Kara is a neuropsychologist and neurofeedback therapist with a strong scientific and research background. From early on Olga was fascinated by neurobiological and psychophysiological foundations of cognitive processes as well as their specific patterns in various psychological conditions. Besides Infra Low Frequency (ILF) Neurofeedback, she uses different training methods in combination with neurotechnology to help patients in her practice in Tampere, Finland and clinic in St.Petersburg, Russia. Olga moreover actively participates in the development of the latest approaches for the integration of brain functions analysis in treatment.

 

Olga, what do we understand under brain functions analysis? 

 

The Brain - as any other organ - has a specific anatomical construction and we can measure the thickness of the cortical layers, or the size of the ventricles, or identify some unusual swelling. All this information is highly important for diagnostics. At the same time, our brain performs an enormous number of different functions. It allows us to read, speak, run, feel the environment, adapt, learn and so on. This complex repertoire of behavior is performed by functional brain networks, or networks that are activated and working together to allow us to perform.Psychological and psychiatric symptoms often cannot be linked to anatomical deviations, but we can identify problems within functional brain network communication. And this helps us to link the deficiency within a specific functional brain network to the patient’s symptom. 

 

How do you use brain functions analysis in your practice?

 

Brain functions analysis helps me in several ways. I conduct brain functions analysis as part of diagnostics to e.g. exclude pathological conditions that should be addressed to another specialist, or to better understand the symptoms of my client. I have found brain functions analysis to be useful, when standard protocols do not seem to help the patients - this is when maybe a severe underlying functional brain dysregulation interferes. So I use brain functions analysis for therapy planning but also for monitoring of therapeutic outcomes.

 

What further information does brain functions analysis provide for the therapist? 

 

In ILF neurofeedback our primary source of information are the patient's symptoms and symptom changes. By the patients’ state and the relations within and in between neurofeedback sessions, we get information about hyper- and hypo arousal and can e.g. adapt the training frequency. Me as well as my colleagues get great results by this symptom-based approach. But sometimes - in e.g. patients with inconsistent symptom profiles, severe comorbidities or with practically no ability for introspection and self-report - one would like to consider a second source of information. This is when brain function analysis, EEG and ERP recording can be beneficial. 

Therapists could use this method if they have concerns about client conditions, for brain training protocol construction, for monitoring of progress (especially if customers cannot see the difference between initial condition and post-training changes). In some cases, especially for medical doctors, this method can be used to predict the responsiveness to a specific medication. The information one gets out of brain functions is complex and one needs to analyze the data and have specific knowledge therefore. 

 

Is brain functions analysis a necessity before starting ILF neurofeedback training? 

 

It is not a necessity. ILF is a symptom-based approach with clinically validated standard protocols that perform very well without brain functions analysis. 
However, in case your client shows unexpected reaction to ILF or you have some concerns about client progress, you may want to add an additional assessment to support your idea about customer condition, exclude some neurological abnormalities, or simply use this as an evidence-based approach, which can help you to measure the effectiveness of the therapy on the functional brain state.I would recommend brain function analysis for those neurofeedback therapists who are interested in the EEG and want to add a further source of information - EEG and ERP related data - besides symptom changes to their treatment evaluation. 

Olga will also share her knowledge and give insights into brain functions analysis and neurofeedback therapy in an Expert Talk on October, 20th 2021 at 5 pm CET. Register right now for free and learn about how neurodiagnostics, EEG/ERP technology and brain functions analysis can be integrated into a neurofeedback practice. 

The demand for psychotherapy continues to grow unabated. Whereas practices were already at capacity before Corona, demand continues to increase. According to a survey conducted by the German Chamber of Psychotherapists at the beginning of the year, demand is already up another 40% over the previous year. For patients, this often means even longer waiting times. For practices, overload. But why it is worthwhile to start with Neurofeedback right now, we show in this article. 

 

1. First of all: Neurofeedback can help with many symptoms because it aims to improve self-regulation.

Our brain is constantly busy with regulation and always wants to work ideally. When we are well-rested, relaxed, stress-relieved and healthy, this self-regulation works well. It is then quite easy for the brain to work optimally and, for example, to go to work with concentration and vigor during the day and to be able to switch off well in the evening. In contrast, we often find it difficult to relax during particularly stressful times. We are not concentrated, irritated and surely everyone of us has already experienced depressive moods once. Sometimes we can get out of such phases on our own and not every kind of stress makes us sick right away. However, permanent stress, traumatic experiences or (mental) illnesses can disrupt this sensitive system of self-regulation in the long term. And often mental illnesses in particular go unnoticed for a long time, are ignored and favored by many factors. The consequences are then often severe and long-term with a variety of symptoms. This is where Neurofeedback comes in. It aims to improve self-regulation and thus to alleviate the symptoms of illnesses. This is why we call ILF Neurofeedback a "symptom-based approach". Depending on which symptoms patients suffer from the most, feedback and electrode position are individually adjusted. ILF Neurofeedback is therefore very effective. Successes and whether a patient responds can often be seen in the first few sessions. Mostly by an improvement in sleep, concentration, or the ability to relax better again. And often patients also report a feeling of well-being, that they feel more secure "and tidier in the head". Neurofeedback can therefore lead to rapid therapeutic success.

 

2. Neurofeedback is fun

Neurofeedback doesn't actually feel like therapy because of the relaxed therapy situation. Especially children and teenagers look forward to "their Neurofeedback training" with the computer game-like animations. Problems at school, whether they have ADHD or suffer from anxiety - all this does not play a big, noticeable role during the Neurofeedback session. During Neurofeedback, it's much more about relaxing, letting the feedback work on you, and, most importantly, experiencing self-efficacy. And even very performance-oriented adults who find it difficult to open up or are reluctant to talk about difficulties often find access to Neurofeedback very quickly. This is because Neurofeedback does not focus on problems and diagnoses and also simply feels good.

 

3. Neurofeedback motivates

Initial improvements in symptoms can be seen quickly and after just a few sessions. This is very motivating. For both, patients and therapists. The effects of Neurofeedback are especially noticeable in everyday life and are also noticed - especially with children and adolescents - by parents and in the school environment. They can be seen in better concentration, balance, better handwriting, etc.  Such tangible successes are extremely motivating and mean that patients are usually very happy to come to therapy. Fewer sessions are canceled and you have fewer therapy failures and a higher planning reliability. 

 

4. Neurofeedback brings ease into the daily work routine...

When asked what they personally benefit most from Neurofeedback, almost all of our clients say sentences like these: "Neurofeedback brings ease into my daily work", "Neurofeedback makes my work much more relaxed", "You can achieve so much with little effort through Neurofeedback" or "A day of talk therapy can be quite exhausting and drain your strength. Neurofeedback also feels easier to me. I am less drained and also much more satisfied with what I have achieved at the end of the day".

 

5. ... and less stressful situations arise during therapy

Neurofeedback is very calm work. Of course Neurofeedback has to be accompanied therapeutically and the dialogue with the patient is important during the therapy in order to optimize the training frequency more and more or to adjust it according to the therapy success. But due to the relaxed attention while the patient does the Neurofeedback "automatically" and follows the feedback animations on the monitor, less tension and stressful situations arise during the session. This is good for patients, but most of all for you! You can also simply take a breather yourself during Neurofeedback.

 

6.Neurofeedback is efficient

Every day therapists tell us about very rapid successes and real treatment breakthroughs. Many patients can be helped faster by Neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is also very easy to plan and the treatment intervals lengthen with ongoing therapy. So while your waiting list may not necessarily get shorter, because you will notice very quickly that your Neurofeedback waiting list is growing. You will however be able to help more patients faster overall. Which of course can also have a positive effect on the reputation and economic success of your practice.

 

7. Every patient can learn Neurofeedback

There are only a few contraindications for Neurofeedback, such as particularly severe forms of epilepsy. In principle, however, Neurofeedback can be learned from elementary school age to old age. The brain performs the Neurofeedback training "automatically" and without any noticeable effort. Because it is suitable for such a wide range of patients, it can be easily integrated into any practice and many patients can benefit from it.

 

8. Neurofeedback is easy to use

Our Neurofeedback hardware is very handy. Therefore, it does not take much to get started with Neurofeedback. The Neurofeedback equipment itself is compact and also the software is easy to use. All you need is a small area - ideally a small trolley on which you can safely place the NeuroAmp and consumables. With a little practice, you can also apply the individual electrodes within a few seconds. All you have to do is select a suitable feedback together with the patient, set the training frequency very simply by using a slider and then concentrate fully on your patient and continue to optimize the training by observing and asking specific questions. We will show you exactly how to do this in our basic courses with a high practical component.

 

9. Neurofeedback is therapeutically attractive

Modern Neurofeedback is not solely oriented towards diagnostics, but above all towards the symptoms that patients suffer from the most. This is why at ILF Neurofeedback we speak of "symptom-based" work and why your role as therapists remains so central. With your expertise and based on your Neurofeedback training, you guide your patients through Neurofeedback. You make decisions about the right electrode position and the appropriate training frequency. The good interaction between therapist and patient is therefore still important and will not be replaced by technology. On the contrary. Neurofeedback is therapeutically appealing and varied. This is because you adapt the feedback individually according to your patient's needs, learn with each patient, improve your skills, become more and more experienced and can use Neurofeedback optimally.

 

10. Hygiene rules can be followed easily

And last but not least: Neurofeedback is non-invasive, painless and hygiene and distance rules can also be easily followed. 

We are enthusiastic about effective neurofeedback. Therefore, it is also important to us at BEE Medic that all our employees have the chance to participate in one of our basic courses and in this way also experience neurofeedback themselves. In addition to a better understanding of our product, this also serves as quality assurance and continuous improvement of our courses. Today our colleagues Linda and Jessica report about their self-experience at one of our Neurofeedback online basic courses in July 2021.

 

 

Hello Linda, hello Jessica. So nice of you to give us an insight into your experience at the Neurofeedback Basic Course today. What do you think about the self-experience in the course?

Linda: The self-experience was totally interesting! I perceived it very differently. Sometimes I felt very relaxed, then again more awake and concentrated.
Jessica: In the beginning we were a bit uncertain and didn't know exactly what to expect. By the end of the course, however, we were able to assess our reactions much better and determine when we had set a training frequency that was too low or too high. 

What surprised you most about the neurofeedback sessions?

Jessica: Although I knew a lot about the process and the effect of neurofeedback before, I was totally surprised how quickly you notice an effect or a change. It only takes a few minutes and even minimal frequency differences have a completely different effect. And that's even though you don't have to actively do anything at first and basically just look at a screen. 
Linda: I also found it very fascinating how differently people react to neurofeedback, which was especially noticeable during the following discussion in the small group. I also didn't expect that even a 10-minute session would be exhausting for the brain. I underestimated that a bit before. I also didn't necessarily think that a short neurofeedback session could have after-effects over several hours and days. I noticed this especially when my tinnitus in my left ear improved significantly.

What did you find particularly good about the feedback sessions?

Jessica: I personally preferred the quiet feedback animations, but there really is something for everyone because of the wide selection. Also, the "game character" of many of the animations increases engagement.
What were you able to notice about yourselves during the self-awareness?
Linda: As I said before, the effects were very different. From relaxation to concentration to laughing bursts and an elevated pulse. At times I also felt a slight tingling sensation and overall I felt that neurofeedback helped me increase my body awareness. 

 

Are you glad you were able to take the course and self-experience?

Jessica: Yes, I can really recommend it. The course was interesting and I was able to get a completely different insight. Of course, the week was also exhausting, because you got a lot of input and your brain has to get used to the neurofeedback first. But we learned and gained a lot, and the experience was just exciting! 
How did you get along with the online format?
Linda: The online format worked really well and all participants as well as the instructors were able to handle the technology very well.
Jessica: That's right. I also found it convenient that we could just participate in the course from home.
Great, thank you for your time and the insight into the neurofeedback basic course!

EEG Info lecturer Dr. Roxana Sasu and Matthew Fleischmann, PhD from the Neurofeedback Advocacy Project have been working successfully with ILF neurofeedback for years.

In the US American podcast Mindstories with Dr. Josephine McNary, they explain what makes neurofeedback so special. Why it is so helpful in the therapy of ADHD, anxiety disorders and trauma and why it is particularly pleasant for patients. They also discuss current findings.

On the mindstories website you can listen to the complete episode