Using Biofeedback Methods to Treat ADHD, Depression, Anxiety & Somatic Symptoms
Biofeedback is an alternative therapy that can be utilized in addition to other therapeutic and medical techniques. Using Biofeedback can help facilitate the mind-body connection by teaching you how your body works when you experience symptoms and use coping skills.
Using a combination of biofeedback techniques and guided relaxation exercises, we will focus on getting in touch with the body. Understanding what is going on within your physical self can increase sense of control, mindfulness and ability to self-regulate.
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Am I a Good Fit for Biofeedback?
A range of conditions and physical symptoms can benefit from biofeedback. In my practice, I utilize techniques mixed with guided exercises including breathing techniques, meditation, progressive muscle relaxation and grounding. To accompany guided techniques, I provide education to facilitate further understanding of the mind-body connection. Currently, I utilize these methods for clients experiencing ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and stress-related physical symptoms (headaches, muscle tension, etc.).
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Biofeedback can help with management of symptoms related to these causes, but it is not a replacement for medical care. If you regularly experience physical symptoms, you should first seek primary care from a physician or other qualified medical provider.
Those who may benefit include:
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Individuals seeking to feel more in tune with their bodies and physical wellbeing.
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Individuals seeking to learn new coping skills and techniques to manage symptoms of ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and/or Stress.
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Individuals with the above mental health conditions who do not wish to utilize traditional medications.
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Those who have completed other forms of therapeutic treatment and want to continue guided exercises for management of symptoms.
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Those who prefer to view observable data related to symptoms.
FAQ
Q: What conditions can biofeedback benefit?
A: Biofeedback techniques can be utilized to benefit a range of conditions, including mental health symptoms and physical symptoms such as urinary incontinence, high blood pressure, migraines, motion sickness and chronic pain. While I offer sessions utilizing biofeedback techniques for mental health symptoms, I recommend individuals seeking treatment for the above listed physical conditions to seek care from a provider specialized in this area. You can view providers who offer biofeedback at psychologytoday.com or search for a certified practitioner at biofeedback.org.
Read More About Biofeedback Here.
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Q: What Devices Might be Used During a Biofeedback Session?
A: Providers may use a variety of tools to help measure physical response including pulsometers, skin sensors, breathing bands, EEG sensors (neurofeedback) and/or thermometers. There are also a number of specialized devices for the specific purpose of biofeedback.
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Q: What Devices do you Use During Sessions?
A: I incorporate the use of handheld and wearable devices to measure patterns related to functioning. The devices utilized are also higher in accessibility price-wise, so if you find that biofeedback is useful for you, you can consider implementing a device into your routine at home.
*Please note, I do not offer sales of such devices or promote any specific products. I can provide information on any devices used as well a general list of devices at varying price points for your convenience if desired.
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Q: How Many Sessions Will I Need?
A: This is a highly individualized answer. Some may find that after a couple sessions, they feel confident in moving forward with newly developed coping techniques and relaxation strategies, while others may desire consistent sessions over a longer period of time. During treatment, we will discuss your goals and regularly monitor progress to ensure you feel comfortable stopping or continuing further sessions.
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Q: I Am Interested in Trying Out Biofeedback and Would Like More Information.
A: I am happy to schedule a free consultation call to help you determine if biofeedback and guided exercises would be beneficial. During this 15-minute call, I will provide basic information, learn your desires for treatment and complete a short questionnaire designed to help you decide if you would like to move forward with scheduling.
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Q: I Am a Current Client and Would Like to Know if Biofeedback Can be Incorporated into Current Treatment Plan.
A: I am happy to discuss how we can incorporate these methods into our sessions. Please reach out before our next scheduled session or let me know during scheduled sessions if you are interested in these techniques.