Dr. Russell Cassell  Tribute

A Vital History Not Lost

Cassel Research Centres were at the forefront of computerized biofeedback assessment until 1998 when . Dr Costello was struck down by esophageal cancer. He had helped establish the first Centre in 1980 in Adelaide, South Australia and named the Victorian Centre in honour of his esteemed mentor research colleague, Professor Russell N. Cassel from San Diego, U.S.A.

As pioneers in the specialized field of computerized biofeedback, Drs Cassel, John K Meyer and Costello worked on test construction statistical validation for over 25 years. They published dozens of scientific articles in learned journals and presented at many International conventions. Gradually a network of international colleagues collaborated together, working in continuous research together with Dr John K. Meyer in San Diego with whom Dr Costello continues to work. and publish articles. There were four Australian centres, two in Victoria at Mornington and Frankston and another on the Gold Coast and in Adelaide. Others initiated from Australia were operated as publishing houses in Christchurch New Zealand. The main research was completed in Melbourne and San Diego CA. . As in San Diego, Dr Costello's Mornington practice was the focus for Computerized Biofeedback. In 1997, the practice was expanded to include more facilities for computerized EEG biofeedback training.  

Immediately on referral, assessment and ongoing progress reporting was a standard procedure. The Mornington clinic provided services of clinical and neuropsychology, vocational guidancy, psychotherapy, pain management, enjoyable fun programs in Swimming with Dolphins and Spl. Ed.for learning problems. Following comprehensive assessment, TBI and Specific learning difficulties were treated through individualized remedial program by specialist teachers. This approach was based squarely on the 1973 model Costello originated and for which the largest Special Innovation Special Projects Federal Grant was awarded to the Yarra Valley Spl. Ed. Community Centre for the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Additionally, we focused on new approaches to intervention for school readiness, reading efficiency and giftedness enhancement programs. At Mornington, after diagnostic and attainment assessment, individualized enrichment and remedial programs were developed for application.in Vocational Guidance rehabilitation. The ACVII (Australian Computerized Vocational Interest Inventory) across Australian and was the most widely used Australian standardized career interest test.  Also through the ACVII (B) Computerised Biofeedback.a match with cognitive dissonace was determined through verbal and non-verbal assessment profile comparisons.