The SBMT-2026 / 23rd Neurotechnology Congress, held in the USA between April 16–19, hosted significant gatherings at the intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and psychiatry. At the congress, President of Üsküdar University and psychiatrist Nevzat Tarhan stood out with both his scientific contacts and notable meetings.
New era in Neuromedical Engineering: Physical barriers are being overcome
One of the most notable meetings at the congress was with Scott Imbrie, who was diagnosed with quadriplegia after a traffic accident but continues his scientific work. Scott Imbrie actively participates in pioneering studies in the field of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technologies today and makes significant contributions to the recovery of motor functions lost due to spinal cord injuries.
Particularly, research on controlling a robotic arm with the power of thought and gaining a synthetic sense of touch reveals the current stage of BCI technologies. Despite having experienced spinal cord paralysis, Imbrie, who has not given up his struggle, is resolutely progressing towards regaining mobility through these studies.
Click for Scott Imbrie's TedX talk (with Turkish subtitles)
Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Tarhan emphasized the future of collaborations in health and technology and the potential contributions of neurotechnological applications to the treatment of paralyzed patients, stating, “The proper alignment of the human brain's potential with neuromedical engineering approaches is ushering in a new era in overcoming physical barriers. Scott Imbrie's life is a concrete example of what can be achieved when science combines with human will.”
Scott Imbrie, in turn, conveyed his own experience with these words:
“At the point I have reached today, the role of physicians, researchers, and neurotechnological advancements is immense. Particularly, artificial intelligence-supported BCI systems are opening brand new doors in rehabilitation processes. These technologies enable not just movement, but also regained independence.”
Prof. Nevzat Tarhan signed his "The Neuropsychology of Wisdom" book for Dr. Keerthy Sunder
Another important theme for Prof. Tarhan at the congress was his meeting with Keerthy Sunder, known for his holistic psychiatry approach. Prof. Tarhan presented his significant works, "Mesnevi Terapi (Rumi Therapy)," "İnanç Psikoloji (Faith in the Laboratory)," and "Bilgelik Psikolojisi (The Neuropsychology of Wisdom)," to psychiatrist Keerthy Sunder, who is recognized for his integrative approaches to mental health and addiction recovery.
This gift, which highlights Prof. Tarhan's emphasis on the fundamental principles of psychology and efforts to maximize the potential of the human mind, parallels Keerthy Sunder's contributions to integrated psychiatry.
As chief psychiatrist at Karma Doctors & Associates, Dr. Sunder, who has over 20 years of experience, thanked Prof. Tarhan for works that bring a new and constructive approach to psychiatry. Dr. Sunder offers his patients a holistic treatment philosophy that aims not only to overcome issues like depression and anxiety but also to achieve happiness, contentment, and success in daily life.
The goal is not only to treat the illness but to improve the quality of life
Keerthy Sunder, in his speech, used the following statements: “The integrated psychiatry approach aims to achieve stronger and optimized results by combining the power of the mind with brain chemistry. This approach aims to create personalized treatment plans for each individual and improve patients' quality of life using scientifically proven advanced treatment methods. Together with our team, we aim to go beyond traditional psychiatry standards; to ensure that individuals not only recover from depression or anxiety but also lead healthy, balanced, and sustainable lives.”
Prof. Tarhan stated, “Dr. Sunder’s interest in the studies, his scientific research, and his books theoretically align with our vision and practically with our applications.”
Brain mapping plays a critical role in personalizing treatment
At the congress, Prof. Tarhan also met with Vicky Yamamoto, known for her work in brain mapping and therapeutic interventions, and presented her with his books “Women’s Psychology” and “The Neuropsychology of Wisdom.”
Dr. Yamamoto’s leadership roles and scientific work in prestigious organizations such as the Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics (SBMT) were significantly highlighted at the congress, and the value of her contributions in this field was reiterated.
