Complementary Health

Complementary medicine integrates conventional medical practices with those of other cultures and healing traditions. The RMH Center for Behavioral Health offers professional complementary health services in a private setting.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is an educational approach that helps people recognize and control the effects of stress on certain parts of their bodies. Using computerized monitoring, individuals learn ways to decrease stress and anxiety by increasing their bodies’ relaxation response. This can help them develop healthier, more comfortable patterns of living.

Neurofeedback

In neurofeedback (NFB)—a non-invasive and painless procedure—brain patterns are transmitted through sensors placed on the skin. These brain patterns are then projected as images onto a computer screen. With time and effort and with the help of visual and auditory feedback, individuals can learn to control these patterns. They can learn to produce new brain waves that impact thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in positive ways.

Relaxation Therapy

Most people are familiar with the stress response, which is also referred to as the fight or flight response. This is when a person’s emotional state gets out of balance because of stress. Feelings of fear, anxiety or anger may be experienced as a result. Excessive stress and/or poor health have a direct impact on a person’s physical and emotional state. Relaxation therapy is a combination of diaphragmatic breathing exercises (slow, low breathing), progressive muscle relaxation and imagery.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis allows for regulation of behavior, alteration of thinking patterns and use of the mind to control the body. Hypnosis has been successfully used in the treatment of stress, phobias, pain, smoking cessation, weight loss and in creating new coping skills. Hypnotic suggestions, made by a certified, professionally trained therapist allows for entrance into a state of intense concentration. This state provides the opportunity for change.

For more information on complementary approaches, contact CBH at 540-564-5960.