The State of the Art in Biofeedback and Neurofeedback: Where do we stand? Thomas F. Collura, Ph.D. October 16, 2010 Michigan Society for Behavioral Medicine and Biofeedback Annual Conference: Lansing, Michigan

Historical Perspective

EEG Biofeedback Operant Conditioning (Learning) Based on brain electrical activity Means to navigate “inner” space Means to condition and train the brain Wide range of application areas EEG ranges from 0 to 100 Hz Components include alpha, theta, beta, etc.

Current Trends Assessment & Planning Multichannel Protocols / Connectivity Live Z-Score Training EEG & Peripheral Biofeedback DC and Slow Cortical Potentials Energy Neurofeedback Real-World Feedback

EEG circa 1925

EEG Physiology

Cells of the Cerebral Cortex

Normal Neuronal Cycle

Concentration/Relaxation Cycle

EEG Biofeedback Goals Improve Self-Regulation Achieve Flexible & Appropriate Brain States Normalize Connectivity Address Functionality, not Symptoms Provide Lasting Change

Live Z-Score Training

Multichannel Assessment / Training

Advanced Protocols

Z-Plus

Z-Bars Delta Absolute Power 19 channels

Z-Bars Delta Coherence 19-channel

Live Topographic Maps

Planetary Analogy Targets = “sun” Z-Scores = “planets” PZOK = “how many planets are within the defined range PZMO = “what is the tendency to move inward” (gravity) PZME = “how far are they on average (size of solar system) GOAL: A compact (normal) solar system

Sun and Planets

EEG & Peripheral Training

DC / Slow Cortical Potentials Very slow (< 1.0 Hz) signals Reflect Brain Activation Glial Cells (10x more than neurons) Research in Europe, Germany Clinical, BCI applications Relatively new in USA Historically very costly

F3 F4 P3 P4 DC/SCP

Energy Neurofeedback Low, Medium, High levels Emphasis on Assessment & Planning Feedback generally brief Facilitates change Nonvolitional mechanisms Exact mechanisms may be unknown

Real-World Feedback

Future Horizons More General Acceptance of EEG BF Clinical Outcome Studies Improved Assessment & Training Methods Safe, non-drug approach Employs innate ability of brain to self- regulate Migration to home, school, office