What is neurofeedback?

• Overview | Short definitions and FAQ’s from Brian Othmer Foundation
• More detail | 8-page description from the Journal of Neurotherapy (pdf)
• Video | Several clips demonstrate the use of neurofeedback for treating various disorders

Professional organizations

• ISNR | International Society for Neurofeedback & Research (publishes Journal of Neurotherapy)
• AAPB | Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback

Other useful sites

• Quietmind Foundation | Philadelphia-area center provides treatment and conducts research
• Play Attention | Relies on neurofeedback technology for at-home education (not therapy)
• Brainlabs | New York neuropsychology researchers and clinicians known for their autism work 
• Other research abstracts | Clinical EEG and Neuroscience Journal

How to find a qualified practitioner
Some questions to ask:

• What is your education and training? Practitioners come to neurofeedback from a variety of related fields – or none. The more background and experience a therapist has with your particular situation, the better.
• Are you certified, and by whom? A lack of any certification makes it difficult to judge skill level. Companies that sell neurofeedback software and curricula certify that practitioners meet their standards on their own systems. The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America (BCIA) requires additional,  broader training.
• Are you licensed? Although the specific practice of neurofeedback is not regulated by the government, many therapists are in professions that are licensed by the states. A licensed psychologist or social worker, for example, has met requirements for the field that an unlicensed practitioner may not have.

Directories of practitioners:
The Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback suggests guidelines and also maintains a directory of members who practice neurofeedback. Other directories include:

• BCIA | Members have met the gold standard in the field
• ISNR | Members have met the international organization's requirements
• EEGInfo | Members have met standards set by this independent resource center
• NeuroCare | Certifies trainers on its neurofeedback system
• OchsLabs | Certifies trainers on its own system
• PABiofeedback | Most complete list of local practitioners (regardless of certification and training)
• NRBS | Northeast Regional Biofeedback Society (ditto; includes New Jersey) 

Send an e-mail about the 10/8/07 article on neurofeedback to reporter Pat Bernstein (currently on vacation).