Futurehealth WinterBrain Plenary presentation by Michael Linden
This talk will describe the EEG & symptomatic difference between Aspergers and Autism. I will discuss how students with Aspergers are more difficult to work with in Neurofeedback then students with Autism based on behavioral, family and QEEG characteristics
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, PSY 11788
Marriage, Family & Child Therapist
B.C.I.A. Fellow & Nationally Certified Neurofeedback & Biofeedback Therapist
Director – The Attention Learning Center
Director – Mission Psychological Consultants Biofeedback Program
Licensed since 1984
I’ve been interested in helping children with Attention Deficit Disorder and Autism since I was in High School. I completed my first research study on Biofeedback and ADHD children when I was in college. I have always been frustrated by doctors who don’t complete a thorough evaluation and then misdiagnose ADD (more than one third of the time). Even more disappointing is professionals who are not open to any treatments other than stimulant medications for ADD, although Neurofeedback (EEG Biofeedback) for the treatment of ADD has been researched in the scientific literature since 1976. In fact, we actually published the first and most controlled study of Neurofeedback with children with ADD & learning disabilities in 1993.
Since 2000, I have been conducting research, discovering subtypes of Autism and Asperger's. We have found at least 5 subtypes of Autism and 2 subtypes of Asperger's. Many of the Autistic children have abnormal EEG patterns, even mild seizures, that can only be seen in EEG tests. More than half of the Autistic individuals that we have tested have over aroused brain patterns, which are often aggravated by stimulating medications (i.e. Ritalin, Prozac).
It has been very rewarding providing more accurate testing for children, adolescents & adults since 1988, when I conducted research on using EEG brainwaves to assess children with ADHD compared to those with other behavior problems. Frequently adults will be so relieved to discover that they have ADD that they cry in my office. At that moment they realize that many of their life long problems are not their fault and that they are not “lazy or stupid.†Parents who come to our ADD Treatments Centers are often so frustrated that they want to send their students away to treatment centers or boarding school, or hold them back. Often their schools refuse to test their children (most schools actually don’t test for ADD) or pressure them to place their children on medication. Sometimes, students refuse to take their medication.
My greatest satisfaction is watching an ADD child’s grades and self esteem increase. Similarly, hearing about improvements at home and work in an adult who has struggled with ADD is personally satisfying. Since 2000, the most rewarding aspect of my work has been providing Neurofeedback to students with Autism & Asperger's, and witnessing the almost “miraculous†improvements in behavior, social skills and communication. A child who begins to speak in sentences and actually carry on a conversation for the first time is an unforgettable experience. An adult who has their first significant relationship is a heart warming event.
Studies indicate that the most common barriers that prevent children and adults from receiving the best care are concerns of inadequate testing and fears of having no choice of treatment other that medication. At The Attention Learning Center, we provide the most accurate, computerized, and brain imaging assessment and more individualized and successful non-pharmalogical treatments, including Neurofeeback treatments.
My professional goal is to help as many people become aware of these long-lasting treatments for ADD and Autistic Spectrum disorder, that do not have side effects. I invite you to review our research and compare it to other local centers, or to speak to some of our numerous satisfied clients.
Have published 5 research articles in the ADD area. Recently discovered unique subtypes of Autism & Aspergers. Dr. Linden's Neurofeedback treatment of Autism was featured in an NBC TV special entitled "Autism - The Hidden Epidemic".
