Biofeedback

What Is Biofeedback?

Biofeedback is a technique for training the mind and body, telling you about how they are reacting and helping you to become aware of and take control of normally unconscious autonomic processes. It is a way to improve your heath by using signals from your own body.

The biofeedback department is located in the Health Services Annex (inside the Counseling Center) next to the Health Center.

You can call 407.823.2924 or 407.823.5841 to make an appointment.

How Does Biofeedback Work?

The BCIA describes biofeedback as a non-invasive form of treatment. The therapist attaches sensors or electrodes to the body and these sensors provide a variety of readings (feedback) which is displayed on the equipment for you to see. The signals typically measure skin temperature, muscle tension, heart rate, and sweat rate. With this information, you can learn to make changes so subtle that at first they cannot be consciously perceived. With practice, however, the new responses and behaviors can help to bring relief and improvement to a variety of conditions.

What Are the Uses of Biofeedback?

The AAPB states that biofeedback can by used by educators to help people function better and by clinicians as part of treatments for many disorders including anxiety, migraine headaches, tension headaches, pain from improperly functioning muscles in the jaws, shoulders, back, etc., IBS, non-cardiac chest pain, and many others. Visit the disorders section of the AAPB web site to find further information on its effectiveness.

Does It Hurt?

Not at all. The small electrodes feel like the adhesive for a bandage. The sensors used are amplifying signals then translating the signals received into digital information for view on the computer screen. Our goal is to help you reduce the stress responses that are compromising your body's systems.

How long does it take to get results?

The program at UCF is 6 sessions and we see an improvement in the vast majority of cases, approximately 85-95% of student’s perceived stress scales decrease. Clinical biofeedback treatment typically lasts between 10 to 15 sessions.

How lasting are the effects?

Once the training is complete, most people find that the benefits continue indefinitely. As with any new healthy lifestyle behavior change, you will need to continue to be mindful of your responses and keep up with your relaxation skills.

How much does a session cost?

The program is $10/session with a maximum of 6 sessions.

Professional Resources

Biofeedback Certification Institute of America (www.BCIA.org)
Applied Psychophysiology & Biofeedback (www.AAPB.org)