Biofeedback
What is Biofeedback?
Biofeedback is an evidence-based practice that is supported by decades of clinical research in psychophysiology and behavioral medicine. It is widely used in both integrative and conventional healthcare settings to support mind-body regulation and enhance resilience. This therapeutic modality uses monitoring devices to provide real-time feedback on physiological functions such as heart rate, muscle tension, skin temperature, sweat gland activity, and brainwave activity. By observing these processes in real time, individuals can begin to recognize and shift patterns that may contribute to states of dis-ease, such as: pain, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and more.
At our practice, we specialize in heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback, a technique that measures and provides real time feedback on the small fluctuations in timing between heart beats. A high HRV is generally associated with a more resilient and well-regulated nervous system, while a low HRV may reflect states of stress, fatigue, or systemic imbalance.
During HRV biofeedback sessions, individuals learn their optimal breathing patterns; specifically, the inhale-to-exhale ratio that promotes the greatest improvement in HRV and supports activation of the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) response. Sessions also incorporate relaxation techniques and mindfulness-based strategies to support nervous system regulation and enhance long-term outcomes.
HRV biofeedback can be integrated with other therapeutic approaches to support a wide range of conditions and goals, including but not limited to:
Mental health conditions: anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, panic disorder, PTSD, etc.
Sleep-related issues: insomnia, shift-work fatigue, etc.
Cardiometabolic concerns: high-blood pressure, etc.
Somatic disorders: chronic pain, fibromyalgia, etc.
General performance and resilience: athletic conditioning, work-place burnout, cognitive focus, etc.
Want to learn more about how HRV biofeedback can support your individual healing journey?
Add-On Services
Electromyography (EMG) Biofeedback
Explore how chronic muscle tension patterns may be impacting your body with surface electromyography (EMG) biofeedback. This non-invasive sensor measures electrical activity in your muscles in real time, helping identify areas of stress or muscle tensing, especially in the shoulders, jaw, or lower back. An excellent addition for those managing chronic pain, tension headaches, TMJ, or postural imbalances.
Peripheral Temperature Biofeedback
Learn how stress affects your circulation with a simple fingertip sensor that measures skin temperature. As your body shifts between sympathetic (fight-or-flight) and parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) states, your extremities warm or cool. Monitoring this subtle feedback can enhance your awareness of stress responses and support nervous system regulation over time.
Skin Conductance Biofeedback
Gain insight into your body's stress response by measuring changes in skin conductance (also known as galvanic skin response). This sensor tracks sweat gland activity, an indicator of sympathetic nervous system (fight-or-flight) arousal, providing real-time feedback to help build greater physical and emotional awareness, resilience, and calm.
FAQs
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In a typical session, sensors are gently placed to measure your heart rate and breathing patterns. You’ll receive real-time visual feedback as you learn how your body responds to different breathing techniques and relaxation strategies. We’ll work together to find your optimal breathing rate and practice ways to support nervous system balance in everyday life.
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A typical HRV biofeedback session lasts 60 minutes. This includes time for check-in, guided breathing practice, real-time feedback, and discussion of strategies you can apply between sessions. Please note that add-on services (skin conductance, temperature, muscle tension, etc.) will increase the overall session time.
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HRV biofeedback can be used with children as young as 5 or 6 years old, depending on their developmental readiness and ability to engage with breathing exercises. Sessions are adapted to be shorter and more playful to match their attention span and learning style. Teens and adults benefit as well, especially for managing stress, anxiety, attention difficulties, and sleep challenges. Each session is tailored to meet the developmental stage and individual goals of the patient.
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The number of sessions vary depending on your goals and health history. We generally recommend following our 10-week protocol, completing 1 session weekly combined with at home practice. Many patients notice meaningful improvements within 4-6 sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support over time. We’ll discuss your unique needs and create a plan that feels sustainable and effective.
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HRV biofeedback is generally safe for most people. However, it may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions, including cardiac arrhythmias, pacemakers or implanted cardiac devices, congestive heart failure, chronic kidney disease, COPD, severe asthma, or severe dissociative disorders. If you're unsure whether HRV biofeedback is right for you, we’re happy to help you assess the fit. Book a free consultation call today.
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HRV biofeedback is non-invasive and well-tolerated. Some people may experience temporary emotional release, fatigue, or lightheadedness after a session, especially if they’re new to breathwork or deep relaxation. These responses are usually short-lived and part of the body’s adjustment process.
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At this time, we do not accept insurance for any of our services, including HRV biofeedback. While some flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) may reimburse for biofeedback, we encourage you to check with your provider. If needed, we’re happy to provide documentation or a superbill for reimbursement purposes (please note there is a fee for superbill preparation), however, we cannot guarantee that services will be covered by your insurance provider.
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Wear comfortable clothing and avoid caffeine or heavy meals right before your session. Try to arrive a few minutes early to settle in. There’s nothing special you need to bring; just an open mind and curiosity about connecting with your body in a new way.
In the heart of Del Mar, California
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Hacienda Del Mar
12625 High Bluff Dr,
Suite 101, Office 5,
San Diego, CA 92130 -
Monday 8:00am-8:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am-8:00pm
Wednesday 1:00pm-5:00pm
Thursday 1:00pm-5:00pm
Saturday 8:00am-12:00pm
