In this interview Mag. Edith Beer how she uses biofeedback in the therapy of trauma-related disorders.
Question: You have experience in the field of biofeedback for trauma-related disorders. What was the trigger for you to use biofeedback here in particular? And what is the added value for you?
Answer: Traumatic experiences can have a significant impact on the autonomic nervous system - this is precisely where biofeedback comes in. A central component of any trauma therapy is stabilisation at the beginning. And biofeedback is an incredibly helpful tool here because it promotes self-regulation skills on a physical level. This was also our motivation for introducing biofeedback as a complementary method when working with patients with trauma-related disorders - and the feedback has been consistently positive.
Question: Which biofeedback parameters do you find particularly useful in this context?
Answer: That is very individual. I usually start by analysing all the available parameters to see where we can focus our efforts. The EMG often reveals a reaction - for example, tension in the trapezius or jaw area.
Question: In your experience, how many sessions does it take before the first effects are noticeable?
Answer: At least five sessions are advisable so that an initial awareness of your own reaction patterns can develop. It takes a little time to try things out for yourself and develop confidence in your own ability to self-regulate. If more sessions are possible, this is of course ideal.
Question: What do patients report from everyday life when they make initial progress?
Answer: The first aha moment is usually: „I have a body that reacts to mental states.“ Many people experience it as an exciting journey of discovery when they observe their physical processes on the screen - detached from pure dialogue. This external perspective helps them to get back in touch with themselves. There is often reluctance at first, but curiosity almost always wins out. Especially in the case of trauma-related disorders, it is very important for many people to have the feeling that they are being helped: I can do something to calm myself down and get back on track.
Question: What tips would you give to colleagues who are considering integrating biofeedback into their work - especially in the area of trauma-related disorders?
Answer: For this target group in particular, it is important to ensure that the setting is as low-threshold as possible. Many find it uncomfortable if they are wired directly or have too little control over the setting. Therefore, the fewer cables, the better. If the device allows it, I would start with sensors that also allow a certain freedom of movement. The feeling is important: I can get up or leave the room at any time if I want to.
Question: How effective do you find biofeedback in dream therapy and why?
AnswerI think it is extremely effective. It improves interoception. Patients get immediate feedback - they can see live on the screen what is happening in their body, and that builds confidence. Many report that biofeedback has enabled them to internalise certain skills much more quickly. Therapists also often find that progress in therapy is achieved faster and more sustainably with biofeedback.
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