Attended "Calming an Overactive Brain", presented by Dr. William Sieber. This seminar was a superb example of a thoroughly thought through, integrative and knowledge packed one day conference. It was presented by a bright, sensitive and humorful clinician with both a clinical and research based career of many years. Without exception, the finest presentation I have attended over many years. Ira E. read more

Institute for Brain Potential was no longer providing CEU's for health care professioals as of June 2025. I ordered printed CEU materials, and books, on the last day, before I. B. P. closed down at midnight. I have not received any materials nor hard copy books. Today, August 6, 2025, I called their telephone number, 1-866-652-7414, and left a message, explaining my complaint, and asking them to reply. read more

If I could give this "institute" a NEGATIVE score, I would. I registered for an in-person class set for Feb. 2025, and unfortunately, I was sick the day of the class. I did call to let them know I would not be there. I was told I would have to wait at least 2 weeks before I would receive the book I ordered to go with the class. The book did arrive. I read the book and took the test, that came with the book. I sent everything in and was told via email; I needed to send an additional $80.00 in order to receive my completion certificate!! I reluctantly sent in the $80.00. So far, NO CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION, NO REIMBURSEMENT FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO ATTEND THE CLASS, NO NOTICE THAT THEY RECEIVED MY ADDITIONAL $80.00! It does appear that I have been SCAMMED!! WARNING, I think this is a SCAM outfit ready to take our money!! (which they did) I had no idea they were not providing CEUs for healthcare professionals. They could have told me that in anyone of the many e-mails I exchanged with them. read more

The last time I attended one of these seminars was in 2016. As a healthcare professional and prolific seminar attendee, the seminar was okay; I didn't regret attending, but neither was I eager to sign up again. I've since opted out and moved (several times); but the Institute for Brain Potential keeps opting me back in. I searched the website for Privacy information... Aside from "Privacy Policy: The information you provide to IBP remains strictly confidential. We have not, do not and will not, trade, or give your email address to any organization." I couldn't find anything useful to stop this junk mail; but perhaps I should be iso their #AntiStalkingPolicy instead?! Update s/p same-day comment from business (from 2 stars to 1): As I've already stated, I have previously opted out; so voluntarily calling into a common, scripted, and unaccountable call (sales) center might leave the impression that I'm interested in engaging with you (allowing you to further abuse your mailing privileges, mine more of my data, and protect you from further review, oversight, or scrutiny with the FTC, et. al.,) ...Nah, I'm not doing that, as I've wasted enough time communicating my disinterest -- plus, I already have to spend time engaging in phone war with companies I am actually doing business with. Do you even have a compliant Privacy Policy?! read more

See all

My experience with IBP has been excellent all around. I've met with many of the presenters/doctors involved and they truly seem to be experts and visionaries in their fields. From what I've seen, the customer service at IBP has been getting better and more responsive in recent years as well. My organization works with IBP but this is my objective experience of working with them and attending many of their seminars. I'm sorry to hear of the negative experiences posted by some reviewers here, but at least since my organization has been involved from early 2022 IBP has been absolutely reliable with their CEUs and services. read more

I am an allied healthcare professional. I have recently taken 2 online courses. I signed up via phone due poor ability to so online. The phone receptionists were very kind and answered my many questions. When I had an issue due to my error of signing up for the wrong class, they carefully took the time to make sure the class I wanted was verified by my license board. I was very impressed by their professionalism. The courses were interesting, clear and very informative. I completely enjoyed the webinars. I followed the directions to send my test form via PDF through email and both times, received my CEU credit the very next day. I will absolutely continue to take more CEU courses from IBP. Great company. read more

I had high expectations for "Changing How We Feel by Changing What We Eat," which I attended in March of 2020. The physical management of the seminar was poor- a very crowded hotel ballroom (this was at the start of COVID-19 restrictions), one speaker with slides only (not very stimulating) and two bathrooms (one broken) for upwards of 300 people. I left early due to concerns for the crowd and COVID-19 (one hour early) and IFBP refuses to give me a certificate of attendance because I didn't stay until adjournment. I won't go to any of their seminars again. read more

This is very possibly a pyramid scheme or other scam. Don't send them any money. Many talk about not receiving CEUs this company claims they can offer for healthcare and other professionals, but seems that it's hard to get credit or they may not be accredited to do such a thing. As a nurse, I know where I can make my needed CEUs count, and for cheaper. read more

As a Hospice Nurse, working for the last 20 years, and always attempting to meet any; patient, family, staff challenges with; honesty, an open heart, and fairness, I find Institute For Brain Potential to have NONE of these qualities.Unfortunately a very disorganized office and management staff to begin with. I would not recommend any of the study programs. Terry K. RN read more

I am a dental hygienist and received a flyer for upcoming continuing education in my city. The topic was about dealing with toxic people and arrived at just the right time. I was so impressed. The course was held in a beautiful venue (a local winery) and was so informative. It was the first course I've been to that wasn't only for dental professionals. There were nurses, teachers, psychologists, etc. The information was so impactful that I couldn't wait to attend more of their courses. The "live" class had a moderator, but the course was projected on video with breaks where we could ask the instructor questions in real time. It worked well. It was terrific to add to my people skills as it is equally important to deepening my dental knowledge. I appreciate that what I learned is not only applicable in the workplace. Keep up the excellent work IBP! read more

Just one word re: the gentleman who was attending the sign in/sign out table and distributing certificates. I couldn't find mine, gave him my name and asked if it was missing or what I needed to do. His response was "I don't care who you are, or if it isn't there...I'll make you one, but you'll have to wait until everyone has picked up theirs! Just plain 'Rude'! One would expect a different response from supposed professionals. read more

I am a Physical Therapist practicing in California. I'm writing this to warn unsuspecting professionals of the scam. I loved the "Forgetting and Remembering" presentation and materials.. HOWEVER.. be aware that if you pre-purchase another book called The Healthy Brain book for $27.00 it will have a test at the end. So here's the rub- after you spend so much time reading the material and taking the test, submitting the test, waiting 5 days for the results- YOU WILL BE CHARGED AN ADDITIONAL $90.00 FOR THAT TEST! No one mentioned that at the conference. Very dishonest and disorganized group. People on the phone said they hear this all the time but the people who run this company do not care. I'm returning a $50. DVD that I haven't opened. I'm not cheap and the material is interesting and i would have paid all the money that day - BUT the underhanded and unscrupulous ways they "add charges" is insulting. I heard it " happens all the time" so don't think it won't happen to you. Ugh - read more

The training that I experienced was entertaining, informative and created a place in my soul that will facilitate a very clear way to help and inform my patients. The instructor was amazing! This training not only shed light on my own struggles, but cleared a way for me to support those seeking recovery and growth. William J. Sieber, I hope I am fortunate enough to experience another training and your presentation again soon. read more

Beware of hidden extra fees to receive your proof of attendance/CEU certificate. I am a dental hygienist and must show proof of CE with a certificate. I actually enjoyed most of the presentation but upon leaving (at the end) we were directed to turn in our evaluation of the course. I completed my form and handed it to the very overwhelmed employee who stated our certificates would be emailed to us once the evaluations were confirmed. That was March 1, 2023, it's now 4/26/23. I called to see if I could get my certificate from this company, the representative told me she would be happy to supply me with a replacement because I was given one at the end of the presentation. I told her the employee told all participants we would receive them by email but she said she would be happy to send me another one if I paid $20. So on top of the $100 fee to take the course go ahead and add $20 for the CE certificate that they will be charging you because no matter what you tell them to get proof of attendance, you will have to pay an extra fee. Very disappointing. read more

Their brochure says they offer credit for massage therapist but the do not report that way. It's a scam they took my money and I got no credits read more

I recently attended an IBP event and inadvertently paid twice. I Brought this to their refund department and received the following reply. "We can issue you a full value voucher good for one year to go towards any future seminar, home study or issue you a cash refund in the same form of payment used at the time of your completed registration, (check or credit card) less a $15.00 administration fee (for a total of $64.00)." My response was that this was not up to the level of service that i would expect and would let people know of my displeasure. Here is my displeasure. read more

Attended Calming an Overactive Brain in Oak Brook Illinois today, presented by. William J. Sieber Ph. D. Clinical Professor at UCSD. Most powerful, knowledgeable, and engaging presenter. Super informative. Thank you! read more

I recently took a class from Angelo Pezzote about inflammation, disease, and the aging brain. He spoke to a wide variety of health care professionals, yet made the complex nutritional, physiological, and self-care information understandable for everyone and applicable to everyday life. He was not only thorough, but very committed spending breaks, lunch, and after class answering questions. His true healer's heart really shines through in his expert advice on diet, obtaining supplements and food that are worth your dollars, and navigating our current healthcare system (ideally through not nerding it!). I would highly recommend this course to any healthcare professional or person looking to further their knowledge of self care. A low cost for high quality, thank you from the bottom of my heart! read more

I took the seminar "Calming an Overactive Brain" presented by William Sieber, Phd a week ago today. I am still gaining insight into what I learned during that seminar, including the benefits of guided imagery. The seminar was well organized, the flow was exceptional. There was a great amount of care put into the content of the material presented as well as the delivery of the information. I have used some of those concepts presented with my clients this past week and have had good results in the passage of what I recieved. I am calmer and my clients are leaving the massage session more relaxed and centered. read more

HOW PEOPLE CHANGE THEIR MINDS TO ADOPT HEALTHFUL HABITS 10/9/17 Norwalk, Ct.. I was disappointed and annoyed. I, and several others sitting near me, found there was very little to nothing about HELPING PEOPLE change. It was kind of a show off program for Dr. Kelley. He is a polished presenter but that was not what we came for. The announcement said there would be 8 key methods .......to help people change their minds to adopt health durable heath-promoting habits. When the rating questionnaires arrived, he said, "I don't care what you say about me...." Dd. read more

The trainings are very good and affordable. Be careful when you are given your CEU certificates. I had to send in for a replacement CEU and was sent one that was riddled with errors and they refused to send me a corrected one. My colleague was given a blank one which she wrote in by hand and that probably wouldn't pass muster with the State. Several times I have paid in advance for the training and during the morning registration, they could not find my name on their list. I had to show evidence of my check being cashed by them and cleared through my bank via my iPhone. Their clerical department needs to be overhauled. A mistake like the one IBP made on my certificate has impacted me when the State did an audit and found that the certificate was wrong. IBP clerical did not own up to it and I ended up taking the blame and being issued a corrective action. read more

I attended a training through this company on October 7 and sent a complaint about the experience on October 12 to the email address listed on the IBP website. I am going to copy and paste the email below, as it clearly outlines the reasons I will not attend another training through this company. Additionally, it is now November 7, almost a month since I sent the email, and I have received no response of any sort. I would recommend avoiding wasting time or money attending a training through the Institute for Brain Potential. Here is the email I sent to them in its entirety: Hello, I attended the training Calming an Overactive Brain in Ann Arbor, Michigan on 10/7/14 and wished to provide some additional feedback outside of the evaluation I completed at the seminar. I opted to attend this training after receiving a brochure in the mail that stated the training would provide practical methods for reducing unwanted thoughts and facilitating wellbeing. It gave some specific objectives about how this would be accomplished, such as providing information on mindfulness, positive psychology, and desensitization. Based on this information from the brochure, I felt the training would have significant application for me as a psychologist/therapist in a private practice. Upon attending the seminar, I was extremely disappointed. The speaker was excellent and engaging, but the content of the training did not, in my opinion, match what was advertised in the brochure. While some of the material the brochure promised was discussed, it was only briefly and superficially. The majority of the speaker's talk was focused on the brain processes that lead to anxiety disorders, and much of the information he discussed was material I learned as an undergrad in Psychology 101. The brochure your company sent in the mail was misleading. If I had received a brochure advertising the training I actually ended up attending, I would not have spent $79 and missed a day of work (I am a contract employee and make no money if I take the day off). The brochure led me to believe that the seminar would be much more focused on therapeutic interventions and have significant clinical applicability. I left this training without any new knowledge or techniques that I can use in my work. I heard other attendees in my vicinity at the training expressing similar thoughts and frustrations. As a result of this experience, I will not attend any future trainings sponsored by your company, nor will I purchase any materials or books published by the Institute for Brain Potential. Due to the fact that I feel misled by your advertisement for this training and considering my lost income for the day, I wish to request a refund of the $79 I paid to attend this seminar. Thank you for your consideration of my request. Update: IBP eventually did issue a refund to me for the $79. However, it was not until after I sent them a second email threatening to post this review on Yelp. They never responded to my email or contacted me at all. One day, after sending my second email, there was a refund on my credit card and that was that. I appreciated that they refunded me, but really poor customer service to not respond at all to a customer complaint and refund request until threatened with a bad review. Also pretty unprofessional to not contact me or respond to my email at all after issuing the refund. read more

Not knowing what to expect but struggling with sleep issues, I attended Dr. William Sieber's "Calming the Overactive Brain." I learned a great deal. Dr. Sieber manages to infuse loads of scientific research with practical advice and humor. The research he draws upon is amazing. Not a fan of new-age techniques, I appreciated him bringing out that prayer is one of the fastest growing areas of research in the last 12 years. Most of all, I learned how little I know about this greatly studied area of the brain. I thought I would stay a couple of hours, but was so mesmerized, I stayed the entire day. This seminar is well worth the investment for those who like to "deep dive" into issues worthy of learning. read more

Well-thought out, delivered and thorough educational programs. While the events are great, you are on your own if you need anything from them outside of a meeting. Frustrating. It is clear from the number of attendees at each event that they are doing quite well. Well enough to hire someone to answer their phone. Wish they would give someone a job and respect their clients by providing access to their team. I have left multiple messages with no response. read more

I was shocked to find such low ratings for this source of CE. I attended just one seminar (here in NC) over a year ago, but I looked up their website with CEU's due again, as a result of my strong customer satisfaction. My seminar was conducted by a neurobiologist (or related discipline) and was highly informative, cutting edge research-based, and the speaker was very entertaining as well. Neurophysiological findings were consistently explained clearly, yet not simplistically, and were applied to real-life human situations. Supporting printed material was clear and well-organized as well. I can at this juncture still recall a lot of the content new to me at that seminar, sadly not always the case in the world of CE. And the price makes all of this an incredible bargain as well! There were no irregularities in my seminar participation--like need to cancel--so I cannot speak to the problem cited by the previous reviewer. However, I did call the Institute with a couple of questions in advance of registering and found the telephone representative to be quite helpful and certainly not rude. Linda (Ph.D. psychologist) read more

I attended a webinar on Fri. related to substance related disorders. Cannabis was listed as one of the topics to be discussed. I thought I would receive current/recent information about Cannabis and other substances. IBP Management states, I should not have expected current information as it was an "interactive" presentation. The author admitted on the sidebar the presentation was composed a "few years ago". If you want current information, I suggest you think twice. You might get more current information by reading a journal. read more

Feb 14th, I attended "Remembering, Forgetting and protecting the Aging Brain" Content was excellent and Instructor, Dr Zola was well informed. The venue Hilton Garden Inn 1065 Stevens Creek Rd, Augusta GA was disappointing. Attendees were over- crowded in a room with poor air circulation, poor traffic pattern to exit or enter. Suggest avoid this venue if you want space to sit, write, find water, and stand if you have to during lectures... I spoke to IBP staff, they offered no solutions; if they could have figured out how to agree to a refund, I would have departed. read more

I attended a live IBP program The Habits of Stress Resilient People, looking for information to inform curriculum in our nursing program. When I walked in and saw the curtains drawn, rows of chairs, and a projector set up, I almost walked out, dreading an all day PowerPoint. I am glad I stayed. The format was essential due to the enormous amount of information presented. John Preston was a knowledgeable engaging speaker. Not only was the information valuable for my students and our patients, but I picked up tips I am using and have passed on to my parents and their friends. It felt like a graduate course in one day. I purchased a DVD to take home, Noxious People: Living and Working With High Conflict Individuals, with Joseph Shannon. My husband and teenager came in from the other room and watched it with me. It was also packed with an enormous amount of valuable information. I will recommend IBP it to my nursing students and co-workers, and plan to attend seminars and purchase more DVDs in the future. My only request is that the DVD include the file of the outline the speaker references. He said a few times "I'm not going to cover this because it is in your packet." For an additional $30 I can pay for a CE certificate and the seminar outline but I don't need the CEs, I just want the information. I am still awarding 5 Stars, because overall, both seminars were well worth the money. read more

I just completed a live webinar with IBP on chronic pain. THIS TOTALLY ROCKED!! I've been in the field for many years, and this just validated everything I have learned and gave solid science behind everything. The speaker was super engaging, incredibly knowledgable and authentic. I'd absolutely recommend this course for anyone engaged in this area of study. read more

I attended the San Luis Obispo, California, CEU conference in 2014 and was happy with the professionalism of the speaker, the interesting topics and research -driven information provided. Not only was it an enjoyable experience and a great way to spend a day, but the presenter had enthusiasm and humor, as well as vast knowledge on the subject he presented. Best of all I earned 6 credits in one day. I am a very busy working professional and whenever I can get more bang for my buck in the form of CEUs that are required, I am very happy about it. I'm still using the knowledge and handouts I received from that seminar today. Excellent job. read more

i attended a class in Irvine, Reasoning with unreasonable people... Excellant class, very informative, and fun. Only complaint was the terrible parking! I would never attend another seminar at the Atrium Hotel.....nuf said read more

This is the second seminar I have attended. I was highly disappointed in the seminar I attended, the speaker did not present in a way that was applicable to healthcare providers. Upon leaving the seminar, I completed the evulation and turned it in, however forgot to pick up my CEU certificate. I called afterwards to request a copy. I was told that there is a $15 fee for this then was transferred to a different department. I ended up having to call 3 times and send an email before anyone returned my call. I was then told that they never received a completed evaluation from me, therefore could not issue me any credit. So... because they lost my evaluation, I paid the fee for a course I did not enjoy, and will receive no credit for it. I will never attend one of these seminars again. read more

I've never wrote a review before but I feel compelled to share my experience with the Institute for Brain Potential: I went to a seminar ("Understanding the Frontal Lobes") put on by the Institute for Brain Potential in Palo Alto in November. The organization had provided a formally written, clearly stated description of the course objectives and topics that were to be covered in the seminar. The speaker however, spoke almost entirely about his own research interests and did not even mention most of topics that were stated in the course objectives. It cost me $79 and six hours out of my busy life, so I called the Sunnyvale office to voice my concerns. The woman I spoke to was very rude, informed me that a refund or any other type of compensation was out of the question, and was firm in that there was no obligation to respond to the fact that what this was was essentially fraud. read more

Just attended my first seminar with IBP entitled: Reasoning with Unreasonable People: Focus on Disorders of Emotional Regulation. As an RN thought it would be beneficial in dealing with a variety of people. Not what was advertised. Lots of definitions and criteria for diagnoses. More useful if I was studying psychology or working as a clinical psychologist. No down to earth info on actually how to "reason with unreasonable people". Disappointed, not at all as advertised, the CEUs are expensive, bare bones accommodations. Would not spend any more time or $$ here. The first half hour was spent promoting their other courses. Tacky. read more

Somebody must've gotten something outta this course I imagine. I'd have been happier at work, thankfully it was sooooooooooo horribly boring that I scored a well needed 3 hour nap. Wish I had jury duty. ATTENTION, THIS IS NOT A COURSE FOR DENTISTS, I HAVE NO IDEA WHY THEY MARKET US. The brochure looked interesting. But this is a switch and bait. Nothing interesting . Boring man reads off his print out power point. Sad sad sad. I was jazzed about the topics. Glad I didn't bring more people than 1 staff member. Save your $79 and yourselves. If you wanna hear more, email me at dahole2th@yahoo.com. read more

I enjoyed the seminar....but now it's time to have the CEU's reported. I've made three phone calls, got passed around like an unpleasant potato, only to have to leave a voice mail for the *only* person who knows anything about reporting credits....even her PA. Not so hot service when you need it. read more

I have actually attended two of the seminars they have offered: Calming an Overactive Brain and the Medicinal Foods. I got a lot out of Calming the Overactive Brain and took some of the information I learned. However, the Medicinal foods seminar was disappointing. Unfortunately, we didn't get a chance to listen to the whole seminar. We arrived 30 minutes early, I would recommend coming a minimum of an hour early to get a seat with a desk for you to comfortably write and take notes. Apparently 30 minutes is too late, we were crunched in the back with chairs and absolutely no space. Since sitting directly on top of the other person was uncomfortable, we decided to try sitting on the floor. After an hour of this, not being able to see the slides and seating arrangement, we left. It appeared that they tried to cram as many people in the seminar (to make more money) but didn't take into account how comfortable the participants were sitting for an entire day. We were told to email the refund person, which we did and also put in some suggestions and complaint in which we got no response back. Not even a sorry about the inconvenience. This led me to call numerous times and after no refund after a month, call again. The customer service rep, Tammi was actually very helpful and pleasant to speak with. However, the person that processes the refunds did not communicate at all, wrote in a note that she had spoken to me and that she was going to process my refund and said sorry (which never even happened). It was very frustrating and after about 6 weeks finally did get a refund. So...tips to make this a better experience would be get there super early if you want a seat, talk to someone that has been to the seminar to see if it is something of interest and good luck trying to get a refund if anything happens that you can't make it. read more

I attended a live IBP seminar and did not receive CE credit. The person who called left a message saying my NABP number was incorrect, and that my window of opportunity for receiving credit ended that day. I called back the same afternoon, only to get an answering machine. No one ever returned my call. If they is a problem such as this, why wait until the afternoon the "window of opportunity" expires? Unacceptable. Both my husband and I attended this seminar, but will not attend another. I am planning to call the state board. read more

Minimal is one star...I guess that will have to do. This company is terrible! Poor communication all in order to get another $20 from you after you pay for your CE credits. They inform you while your at the seminar that you have to fill out an evaluation in order to get your CE credits. What they don't tell you is how to get them. Everyone at the seminar was leaving empty handed because they didn't have them by the exit. I called because I never received my email since they didn't have them there..and the lady just said yeah they were right there where you turned in your forms. I then explained the situation to her. She then put me on hold just to come back on the line and say, well do you want me to process the $20 so we can send you your CEs. Wow...you've gotta be kidding me. I WILL NEVER USE THIS COMPANY AGAIN! I asked before I hung up to please remove me from their mailing list. I hope since you read to the end of this review that you do not continue to use this company to receive any CE credits. Do not make the same mistake I made read more

I MUST respond to the above post! I too have taken the "Food for thought..." seminar from IBP and it was FABULOUS!! Perhaps it was the speaker (Mike Lara, MD) but my experience was everything I hoped for and so much more! I have taken at least half dozen other programs with IBP and I have without fail been very pleased. The speakers are ALWAYS incredibly qualified leaders in their fields(Stanford, UC Davis, UC Berkeley, UCSF...), and excellent lecturers. The research discussed is always of the highest quality and very current (one speaker was discussing a study that had only been published two weeks prior). The "business" of IBP is sometimes a little sketchy with too few people helping at the seminars (can be a bit chaotic) and I have been in a couple of venues that were not particularly well suited to the seminar format HOWEVER I go for the basic science taught to be able to understand the up to date information on the topics I choose, not the venue! Not only will I take other seminars, but I plan on attending one tomorrow. IBP will remain one of my go to providers for quality continuing education!! read more