Diaphragmatic Breathing, or “Belly Breathing”, is a way of breathing that utilizes the diaphragm, and allows for a fuller, slower, and more rhythmical breath. This is a technique used to reduce stress by breaking shallow patterns of breathing that use the abdomen and the chest. It works, because the breath is intimately connected to the autonomic nervous system and the mind.
Biofeedback is a non-invasive method, which allows one to receive actual feedback from the body and therefore the ability to gain control of involuntary processes. This may include gaining voluntary control over such things as heart rate, muscle tension, blood flow, pain perception and blood pressure. Biofeedback can be used alone or as an adjunct to treat many conditions, including essential hypertension, benign heart arrhythmia, anxiety and stress, chronic pain, migraine and tension headaches.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based therapeutic approach which promotes psychological flexibility through teaching mindfulness practice, identifying and reconnecting with personal values, and developing acceptance of unwanted experiences which are not in one’s control.
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a type of psychotherapy that involves a combination of cognitive therapy, meditation, and the cultivation of a present-oriented, non-judgmental attitude called “mindfulness.”
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic approach that is geared toward examining the relationships between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. During treatment, one learns to reframe longstanding maladaptive patterns of thinking in order to improve coping and functionality.