THIS 2020 will be held at Trades Hall Glasgow at 9:45am on Saturday 8th February. It is an information event for members of the public who are affected by TINNITUS, HYPERACUSIS and/or HEARING LOSS. Health professionals such as General Practitioners who are interested in offering the best advice to their patients who are challenged by these conditions are also urged to attend.
With attendances of over 250 at previous THIS Events we have significantly changed the format and venue to create a more intimate and rewarding experience. We will offer those with a real interest the opportunity to interact with our experts during the presentations and at break times.
Numbers will therefore be strictly limited and so we urge you to register promptly to secure your places.
What is THIS 2020?
THIS 2020 is a lively and informative day filled with helpful talks and interactive sessions about TINNITUS (ringing or other sounds in the ears), HYPERACUSIS (sensitivity to sounds) and HEARING LOSS.
You will find out about the latest tinnitus research, effective tinnitus treatment, local support networks and exciting new listening technology. Gather all the expert advice and information you will need to make a better decision about why, how and where to get help! The day will feature presentations from our stellar speakers. There will also be smaller workshop sessions. Two tea and biscuit breaks will allow you to speak directly with our experts and maintain your stamina. You can also break the ice over a cup of tea at registration too!
Goals For THIS 2020
- Raise awareness of Tinnitus, Hyperacusis and even subtle changes in Hearing.
- Provide that very latest news on research and technological advances
- Offer information for those affected on a range of treatment options
The Invisible Hearing Clinic celebrates 20 years of independent audiological care in 2020. Organising THIS 2020 and sponsoring BTA Tinnitus Week continues our support and commitment to helping those affected by Tinnitus and Hyperacusis and the aims and objectives of the British Tinnitus Association (BTA). Tinnitus Research is this year’s theme and we believe being aware of and understanding the latest research helps us to modify our current practice for even better patient outcomes.
Guest Presenters
David Stockdale
We are delighted to welcome David to THIS 2020. He has been Chief Executive of The British Tinnitus Association for the past ten years. David has been responsible for influencing partner organisations, medical professionals and the wider general public. This allows support for the BTA’s work to be enhanced, increased and developed.
He is also the co-author of several articles and publications on tinnitus, including “Why Is There No Cure For Tinnitus” in the journal Frontiers in Neuroscience (2019) with amongst others, Professor David Baguley, our THIS 2019 headliner. He has also appeared on national TV in his quest to improve the quality of information available to GPs on tinnitus treatment and management. David is, therefore, well placed to comment on the current state of, and future outlook for tinnitus research.
Dr James Jackson
James is Associate Principal Lecturer at the School of Social and Health Sciences at Leeds Trinity University. He is a member of the British Tinnitus Association and has presented nationwide to many tinnitus self-help groups as well as NHS Trusts, professional bodies, private companies and relevant charities. He is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychology Society.
He has a degree in Biological Sciences from Heriot-Watt University, a BSc (Hons) degree in Psychology from the University of Sheffield, an MSc in Industrial Psychology and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Hull. His doctorate looked at the effects of tinnitus on concentration and task. His research interests include how people cope with their tinnitus, the interaction between tinnitus, individual differences (e.g. personality, for example) and physiology (such as stress hormones). James has had tinnitus since childhood and also suffered a severe sudden hearing loss whilst a student. James was very well received as our Lead Presenter at THIS 2018 and we are delighted to welcome him back. His personal experiences and wide academic knowledge make him an invaluable contributor.
Alan Hopkirk
THIS 2020 is the fourth Tinnitus and Hearing Information Show organised and hosted by Alan Hopkirk. He is an audiologist and Clinical Director of The Invisible Hearing Clinic in Glasgow and Cumbernauld. The practice celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year.
He has a special interest in tinnitus and trained in Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) with renowned Professors Pawel and Margaret Jastreboff in Baltimore USA. He uses this therapy as the base of a holistic approach to tinnitus treatment. Alan regularly attends international tinnitus events and research conferences as part of his commitment to providing the best clinical care for his tinnitus patients. He was present at the 12th Tinnitus Research Initiative conference in May 2019 in Taipei, Taiwan which covered a diverse range of fascinating and challenging aspects of tinnitus.
Alan is a member of the British Tinnitus Association (BTA), American Tinnitus Association (ATA) and hosts the Glasgow and West of Scotland BTA Tinnitus Support Group. He supports the work of Alzheimer Scotland as a Dementia Friend and is a Fellow of BSHAA (British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists) as well as an elected Council member.
He is a strong advocate of early treatment of hearing loss. There is strong evidence that this helps to improve one’s quality of life. In addition, it can contribute to a healthier brain and even reduce the risk of dementia in later life. Alan has a depth of knowledge and practical experience in tinnitus and hearing. He is also committed to raising awareness and offering solutions. This has allowed him to ensure that “THIS” shows are outstanding events, valued and enjoyed by attendees and presenters alike.
THIS 2020 – What to Expect
THIS 2020 will be deliberately focused on offering hands-on help and guidance to those affected by tinnitus and who want to change their lives for the better. There are no magic wands for Tinnitus or Hyperacusis, but there are effective treatments. If you are affected by either of these conditions and you really want to improve your life then THIS 2020 is a not-to-be-missed event for you.
Programme of Events
09:45 – 10:15 – THIS 2020: Registration, Welcome Hot Drink and Biscuits
10:15 – 10:25 – Alan Hopkirk FSHAA – The Invisible Hearing Clinic
“Introduction to THIS 2020”
10:25 – 10:30 – James Clay FSHAA, Audiologist, Dublin
“Session Chair”
10:35 – 11:05 – David Stockdale CEO – British Tinnitus Association
“BTA Supported Research – Our Vision and Goals”
11:10 – 11:40 – Alan Hopkirk – FSHAA Audiologist, Glasgow
“Invizear’s Tinnitus Treatments”
11:45 – 12:15 – Dr James Jackson PhD – Leeds Trinity University
“CAR-Cortical Awakening Response”
12:15 – 12:45 – Refreshments and a chance to talk to the Experts one-to-one
12:45 – 12:50 – Isabella Fisher – FSHAA, Audiologist, Birmingham
“Session Chair”
12:50 – 1:20 – Dr James Jackson PhD – Leeds Trinity University
“Empowerment and How it Can Help “
1:25 – 1:55 – Alan Hopkirk FSHAA – The Invisible Hearing Clinic
“Tinnitus Variations – An Enigma?”
2:00 – 2:30 – David Stockdale CEO – British Tinnitus Association
“How the BTA Can Support You”
2:30 – 3:00 – Refreshments, mingle with new friends, develop a personal plan
3:00 – 3:10 – Carl Peach – Poet, “for there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so” – Hamlet
“A Tinnitus Poem and Session Chair”
3:15 – 3:45 – Expert Panel
“Q & A – How YOU Can Move Forward with Tinnitus”
3:45 – 4:00 – THIS 2020 – Thank you and Close
How to Register
Spaces are limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, so act now and secure your entry ticket. Alternatively, call 0141 226 2268 to register with our telephone support team.
Further Information on THIS 2020
For further information please call on 0141 226 2268 or visit our Facebook Event Page for regular updates.
