Newswise — As the use of biofeedback and other mind-body techniques increases within the healthcare community and among consumers, the amount of information and number of individuals claiming to be trained practitioners is often overwhelming. The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America announces its online provider directory that is the only resource for finding certified practitioners throughout the country. To access the online directory, visit www.bcia.org and click on the Find a Practitioner link at the top of the page. You can search the directory by zip code, state or name.
Biofeedback is a mind-body technique using electronic instruments to help individuals gain awareness and control over their body and mind. During biofeedback sessions, instruments measure muscle activity, skin temperature, respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, brain electrical activity and brain blood flow. It is a useful self-help tool that is a pathway to learning important voluntary control skills that are useful throughout life. Biofeedback enables individuals to increase bodily awareness, acquire relaxation skills, and gain control over a variety of organ systems in their body.
Many people feel encouraged and empowered by biofeedback. Anyone who is suffering from life stress and anxiety can benefit from biofeedback strategies of physical and mental relaxation. In addition, individuals with many organic medical problems, such as spinal injury related motor control problems, may find that biofeedback helps them compensate for their medical condition and function better. Biofeedback is useful in medical care, mental health treatment, physical and occupational therapy, dental care and education. Conditions treated and/or managed with biofeedback include addictions, incontinence, ADHD, chronic pain, headaches, and more.
All practitioners of biofeedback are encouraged to become certified by the Biofeedback Certification Institute of America (BCIA). BCIA certification demonstrates a provider's competence in the practice of biofeedback techniques. It also indicates the individual has undergone continuous peer review of ethical conduct and has continued to acquire knowledge of recent developments in the field. BCIA certification is the mark of distinction for providers of biofeedback services. Certification recognizes health care providers who have demonstrated competence in the use of biofeedback and self-regulation treatment methods. BCIA is the only organization recognized worldwide granting certification to biofeedback practitioners. BCIA was established in 1981 with the mission of protecting the general public by establishing strict standards for biofeedback practitioners. There are approximately 1,500 health care professionals who currently hold certification in general biofeedback, EEG biofeedback, or pelvic muscle dysfunction. Many clinicians have more than one of these certifications.
Certification demonstrates professionalism and adherence to carefully developed standards as a health care provider. BCIA Certification reflects a commitment to professionalism by completing basic degree and educational requirements, learning to apply clinical biofeedback skills during mentorship, and passing a written examination. For more information, visit the BCIA website at http://www.bcia.org.
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