Biofeedback is a process that enables an individual to learn how to change physiological activity for the purposes of improving health and performance. Precise instruments measure physiological activity such as brainwaves, heart function, breathing, muscle activity, and skin temperature. These instruments rapidly and accurately "feed back" information to the user. The presentation of this information — often in conjunction with changes in thinking, emotions, and behavior — supports desired physiological changes. Over time, these changes can endure without continued use of an instrument.
-Definition adopted by BCIA, AAPB, and ISNR (May 18, 2008)
Biofeedback is a cutting edge treatment in mind-body science. It demonstrates the link between our thoughts, feelings and behaviors and underscores how they profoundly influence our health. Biofeedback training uses computerized instrumentation to monitor various body functions and display this information on a computer screen for you to see. Some of the body responses that can be monitored are: muscle activity, heart rate, blood vessel constriction and dilation, breathing and many more. Much like the use of a thermometer, the instruments are passive and non-invasive and just 'pickup' information about your body and give you a 'reading'. By monitoring this activity and receiving guidance in making changes, you can learn to control the reactions that are causing you distress. You can learn to 'self-regulate'. With assistance in understanding how to make this skill work for you in your daily life, you will see this new, healthier response become a natural part of your life. It is not 'magic' or a 'cure-all' but an effective self-help tool. As a certified Biofeedback therapist I follow the highest standards of care and scientific evidence based practice.
Research demonstrates the effectiveness of Biofeedback for many conditions.
The conditions in which I specialize are:
Anxiety
Bruxism and TMJ
Fears and Phobias
Gastrointestinal Problems
Hypertension
Insomnia
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Migraine and Tension Type Headaches
Pain Reduction
Panic Disorder
PTSD
Raynauds
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
Tinnitus
Who Can Benefit?
While almost anyone can benefit from the feelings of calm and gaining greater control of their body and their lives gained in Biofeedback training, it may not be an indicated treatment for all conditions and requires an initial medical evaluation for symptoms you are experiencing. Children as well as adults can benefit from Biofeedback. Children benefit from the 'child-friendly' training strategies and specialized computer screens. Biofeedback is effective for many bio-behavioral issues for children. I specialize in headaches and pain conditions, anxiety disorders, anger management, insomnia and impulse control treatments for children and adolescents. Biofeedback is an effective treatment when medication is not an option, to help medications be more effective or to assist when medications are being changed.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Biofeedback is a short term training and therapy, however, the length of treatment varies with the individual and particular symptoms being addressed. Initiallly, sessions take place on a weekly basis, then are less frequent as you feel better, symptoms resolve and you feel comfortable with your skills. Within a few sessions you will feel a growing ability to impact the way you feel.
Please contact me with further questions or to discuss how Biofeedback can be helpful for you!
You may also want to visit the following website:
www.aapb.org
