Getting Started with Neuorfeedback is written like a textbook. It’s targeted at clinicians who want to learn how to do neurofeedback, or at least to understand it better.  It does a good job of reviewing basic concepts in neurofeedback that new clinicians should be familiar with, sooner or later.   The book is more basic than the Introduction to Quantitative EEG and Neurofeedback book, more of a primer.  It’s not possible to fully learn how to do neurofeedback out of a textbook (hands-on training is necessary), but this is good introduction to one point of view and a useful reference.    

The first half offers explanations, such as a history of the field; a simple neurophysiology overview; an introduction to biofeedback, neurofeedback and qEEG; EEG concepts and frequency bands; how the EEG recorded; sensor placements; basics of how the neurofeedback systems work; and  EEG frequency bands (delta, beta, alpha, etc).

Part II targets an overview of some clinical approaches to implementing neurofeedback, including issues surrounding the creation of treatment plans, assessment issues and issues regarding selecting protocols (the frequency and site used for training).  There are many approaches to doing neurofeedback,and this text presents a helpful description of one of them. 

 Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training

Dr. Paul Swingle was a professor of psychology for years at the University of Ottawa and  also lectured in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School for a number of years.  He’s a very bright, very practical guy who has built one of the most successful neurofeedback practices in the country.  He’s also created a model of brain function and how to train it.  Most importantly, he’s very good at explaining a complex subject in ways to make it understandable to both professionals and health consumers.  If you’re looking for a “hard science” book, this isn’t it.  If you want to gain a better understanding of how the brain works and how neurofeedback influences it, this is a solid book with a lot of information.  Definitely recommended reading. 

 Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training

A Symphony in the Brain by Jim Robbins

New to neurofeedback and looking for a book to help you get a solid introduction to the field?  A Symphony in the Brain, which author Jim Robbins has revised and expanded for the new edition, helps its readers gain a real sense for neurofeedback.  Robbins’ work stands out not only for being a great introduction to neurofeedback, but also a very well-written and readable book, thanks to his expertise as a professional science writer.   A Symphony in the Brain Includes a valuable introduction to the research and history of the field as well as compelling case studies of people who have been treated with neurofeedback.

Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training

Drug Induced Dementia: A Perfect Crime by Grace E. Jackson, MD

This very credible, very well-researched book is important in that it points out the compelling need for other treatments that are effective.  Neurofeedback and brain nutrition are two of the most important options.

Dr. Grace Jackson, a board-certified psychiatrist, poses questions almost no one else is asking publicly.   Dr. Jackson does a brilliant job of presenting research from many sources –from animal science to neuroimaging.  It’s some very compelling research that no one is pointing out – or advocating for.  For psychiatrists, other MDs and pharmaceutical companies, it may be a very uncomfortable book. 

In her book, Dr. Grace Jackson writes, "The pervasive prescribing of psychiatric drugs to children and adolescents is one of the greatest public health crises in the history of modern medicine. We will quite likely see an epidemic of early-onset dementia in 40 to 60 year olds as these children and adolescents grow up. Tragically, many will die prematurely a result of the physical harm caused by these drugs."

Anyone taking psychiatric medications for a long time or who knows someone who is should be aware of the risks.  They aren’t getting that information elsewhere.  This book gives them a clearer picture of risks.  She points out in particular the reasons why existing drug treatments are particularly hazardous for survivors of traumatic brain injury and stroke.


Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training

Healing ADD: The Breakthrough Program That Allows You to See and Heal the 6 Types of ADD by Daniel G. Amen, MD 

This is by far the most quoted book among clients coming into our clinic.  Dr. Amen is featured frequently on PBS.  Of is many books, this is the best for helping people understand his “6 Types of ADD.” After reading this, many say it’s the first time they were clear that they (or their child, or family member) had ADD and what type they were.  It also a simple explanation – with pictures – of what the brain looks like with ADD, and why ADD has so much impact.  It’s great for showing other family members.  Amen includes a number of recommendations for ADD, including medications, neurofeedback, and diet, as well as family therapy and school strategies.   The strength of this book is the clear ADD explanation.  The section on the ADD diet is an important reminder - eat enough protein for breakfast and other meals, not just carbs for breakfast. 

Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training

Parenting Children with ADHD
by Dr. Vince Monastra

Published by the American Psychological Association

There are a ton of books for parents on ADHD – because almost every parent needs help to cope with challenging kids.  One of our clients – a very well read mom who’s really done her homework said the Monastra book was the best one she’s read.  I agree.  Why?  For one, if you are concerned about meds but may need to consider them, he gives the best practical, detailed explanation about ADD meds we’ve seen.  It arms the parents with real information to talk to doctors, so you know what to ask, with what to be concerned, and hints on how to identify if changes need to be made.  He recommends neurofeedback as an important option – he uses both approaches in his center in NY.   The gold is his discussions about how to manage your child.  He’s worked with thousands of kids and parents. He tells you clearly what won’t work.  That’s really important.  Then he gives you practical real example of things that work when your kid won’t do what you ask.  They are practical gems that parents can quickly apply to work with their child.    This is a book that lives up to its title. 


Reviewed by Michael Cohen, Director, Center for Brain Training