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This chapter reviews studies on the application of electroencephalography (EEG)-neurofeedback to the performing arts. EEG spectral neurofeedback protocols may be divided into slow- versus fast-wave training, e.g., alpha/theta (A/T), and sensory-motor rhythm (SMR) training. The former, when conducted with eyes closed with auditory reinforcement, encourage states of deep relaxation, whereas fast wave training is conducted with eyes open while reinforcement is provided on a computer screen. Of central relevance to musical imagination, A/T training has consistently enhanced interpretative imagination in the performing arts, and in fact the A/T protocol originated to enhance creativity.

This chapter begins with a discussion of the historical development of the field of neurofeedback, applications of neurofeedback, and the brain model underlying neurofeedback. It then considers the subjective response reported for neurofeedback. People's experiences vary for the two kinds of training: the higher-frequency training done under eyes-open conditions, and the lower-frequency training done mostly under eyes-closed conditions. Neurofeedback, by giving access to mental states in all their specificity and variety, opens the door to new treatment options for the psychologist that are congenial with, and complementary to, existing psychotherapeutic methods. By relying so strongly on the client's own resources, and by drawing benignly on the client's experiential repertoire, the prospects for therapeutic success are enhanced. Almost beneath notice, the client's resources for recovery are reinforced. Through the higher frequency training, the physiological underpinnings are strengthened and stability is enhanced, whereas through the lower frequency sessions, the psychological reserves are replenished and impediments to healthy functioning are allowed to subside.

There are no quick and easy ways of overcoming ADHD; more importantly, there are no outright cures. Many misguided or dishonest individuals promote all manner of alternative ‘treatments’ for ADHD. The media often play an active role in irresponsibly promoting discredited treatments. If you plan to start any treatment, first be certain that you understand the risks involved. You should obtain reliable information from your child’s doctor before becoming involved in any treatment. This chapter explores unconventional treatments for ADHD, including the evaluation of alternative treatments, the role of the media, and some widely promoted treatments (dietary treatments, herbal treatments, technological treatments, exercise programmes, manipulation of the spine, and meditation).

A brain–machine interface (BMI) is a biohybrid system intended as an alternative communication channel for people suffering from severe motor impairments. A BMI can involve either invasively implanted electrodes or non-invasive imaging systems. The focus in this chapter is on non-invasive approaches; EEG-based BMI is the most widely investigated. Event-related de-synchronization/ synchronization (ERD/ERS) of sensorimotor rhythms (SMRs), P300, and steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) are the three main cortical activation patterns used for designing an EEG-based BMI. A BMI involves multiple stages: brain data acquisition, pre-processing, feature extraction, and feature classification, along with a device to communicate or control with or without neurofeedback. Despite extensive research worldwide, there are still several challenges to be overcome in making BMI practical for daily use. One such is to account for non-stationary brainwaves dynamics. Also, some people may initially find it difficult to establish a reliable BMI with sufficient accuracy. BMI research, however, is progressing in two broad areas: replacing neuromuscular pathways and neurorehabilitation.

This chapter examines the state of the art on the psychophysiological mechanisms underpinning mind-body interaction in sport, highlighting the unknown on the brain-heart relationship by means of five major questions. Specifically, the answer to the first methodological question provides basic information on the measures used in sport psychophysiology to quantify brain and heart activities, including their relationship. The following theoretical questions focus on the psychophysiological states underpinning performance optimization (i.e., arousal, emotions, cognitive processing) and on the psychophysiology of interoception and neuromuscular fatigue. Finally, the applied questions would suggest interventions integrating brain-heart and neuro-visceral-cognitive measurements to optimize performance. Overall, sport psychophysiology allows developing new training to achieve peak performance, based on the deep understanding of the underneath processing. Within this framework, available data suggest that the strong bidirectional communication between brain and heart modulates optimal performance.

This systematic review of executive function (EF) interventions is the largest such review thus far, including 179 studies from all over the world, reported in 193 papers. It covers all the ways that have been tried to improve EFs, including computerized and noncomputerized cognitive training, neurofeedback, school programs, physical activities, mindfulness practices, and miscellaneous approaches (e.g., drama and Experience Corps), at all ages. A little studied approach—mindfulness practices involving movement (such as taekwondo and t’ai chi)—shows the best results for improving EFs. Promising school programs are second. Both approaches show better results than any cognitive training. Third best at improving EFs is noncomputerized cognitive training. Perhaps these three approaches show better results than computerized training because they involve more in-person trainer-trainee interaction. The best-performing computerized cognitive-training method for improving EFs is Cogmed®. Support was lacking for claims that N-back training improves fluid intelligence. Resistance training and “plain” aerobic-exercise interventions (e.g., running or walking) show the least evidence of benefit to EFs of all methods. Results for aerobic exercise with more cognitive or motor-skill challenges are only slightly better. This probably reflects how physical-activity interventions have been structured, rather than that physical activity does not benefit EFs. For any intervention, trainers’ ability to make the training activity enjoyable and to communicate their unwavering faith in participants and the program plus the activity being personally meaningful and relevant, inspiring commitment and emotional investment in participants to the activity and to one another is probably what is most important.

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), also known as brain–machine interfaces (BMIs), are a group of experimental procedures in which an external sensor is used to provide information about a specific brain process in order to change the measured quantity. A BCI acquires signals from the brain of a human or an animal using any one or more of these sensors, then selects or extracts specific features of interest from the signal and converts and then translates these into artificial output that can act on the body or the outside world. A BCI may influence human performance by replacing, restoring, supplementing, or enhancing brain function. In this chapter, we discuss the extant research in terms of experimental work and neuroscience understanding of the application of BCIs and neurofeedback systems in influencing human performance in different brain functions, namely, action, perception, cognition, and emotion, in healthy individuals, expert performers, and patients.

This chapter reviews researches on the processes and outcomes of psychotherapy. The research indicates use of varied modalities including cognitive behavioural therapies, psychodynamic approaches, and couple and family therapy interventions. These techniques are used in varied contexts such as medical and surgical consultation-liaison settings. Models of care and service delivery have been translated to facilitate the shift from the clinic to the community, accompanied by an expanded role for counsellors and therapists. Cultural sensitivity in the practice of therapy and in the shift to culturally relevant models of therapy and practices like yoga and meditation is evident. Experiential, qualitative studies tapping psychotherapy processes and the inward gaze towards psychotherapist training, development, and professional issues collectively chart a path less trodden. The practical impediments to progress in psychotherapy practice, training, and research in the country are discussed and pathways for future are outlined.