A method for modifying cranial electrical potentials utilizes an electrical lead having first and second electrodes. The electrical lead may also include either a resistive component for increasing the resistance of the electrical lead, or a diode for restricting the flow of electricity through the lead to a single direction. The electrical lead is attached between skin surface areas of a human head, such as between ears, or an ear and an area of the scalp or forehead. Preferably, two electrical leads are utilized, one lead extending from a left ear to a right portion of the head, and the other electrical lead extending from the right ear to the left portion of the head. Scalp electrical potentials are altered in a passive manner resulting in beneficial effects on a variety of psychiatric disorders and brain functioning.