A biofeedback session typically begins with a conversation about what you want to work on. The practitioner explains the signal they plan to measure and how you’ll use that information during practice.
Get oriented to the equipment
Depending on the method, you may wear external sensors to measure breathing, muscle activity or another signal. Ask the practitioner what each sensor does, what you’ll see or hear during the exercise, and whether there are any reasons to adjust the approach.
Practice and discuss what changed
You may start with a baseline measurement, try an exercise and compare the feedback. Tell the practitioner if the exercise feels uncomfortable or hard to follow. They can explain what the reading means and whether they would change the exercise next time.
Leave with a plan
Ask what you can practice between visits, how you’ll judge whether it helps and when to review your goal. Before committing to a course of sessions, check the provider’s relevant training, the expected time and cost, and whether your clinician should be involved.
Questions to ask before a biofeedback session
Before booking, explain what you would like to work on and ask how the provider would measure it. Find out how long the first appointment is, what preparation they recommend, and whether you need to bring any notes from your care team. Ask if you will see a demonstration before you try the exercise yourself.
What to write down afterward
Record the exercise you tried and anything the practitioner asked you to notice. If home practice was recommended, write down when you will do it and what questions you want to bring back. You can also ask when the two of you will review whether the sessions are helping you with the goal you set.
For more detail, see NIH’s guide to relaxation techniques. Also see What Is Biofeedback Therapy? for another part of this series.