Evolution of the Scott/Peniston Protocols

Scott-Peniston Outcome Study, 1993

  • 100% of the subjects had no PTSD per DSM-iii-r
  • 79% of the subjects remained abstinent after 12-24 mos.

Delta inhibit was added to the original protocol to prevent abreactions. Abreactions included flashbacks, which caused the Veterans to re-experience the trauma. When Delta was inhibited they would become an observer of their past history while emotionally in a neutral state.

Scott-Peniston Randomized Control Trial, 2005

  • 79% of the subjects remained abstinent at 12 months
  • 44% in the control group relapsed at 12 months

Based on an outcome study by Steve Fahrion in which he tried the original Peniston protocol and failed to yield significant results, Bill Scott added beta & SMR to the original Scott-Peniston protocol for the UCLA research design. Fahrion’s study was with an addictive prison population who were primarily polysubstance abusers, therefore, had more neurophysiologic deficits. It seemed prudent for the UCLA study to add beta and SMR protocols first to stabilize the brain before beginning alpha theta training, which works on defense mechanisms and fear conditioning.

Why Are The Scott/Peniston Protocols S0 Significant?

  • They are the only protocols proven effective in a large randomized controlled trial.
  • The study was conducted by a reputable university and published in a distinguished journal.
  • Symptom-based protocols are much more cost effective to implement than other EEG biofeedback methodologies.
  • Scott/Peniston is the only methodology that uses alpha-theta feedback, a necessary protocol for people with emotional issues and past trauma.