Biofeedback Certificate

Overview of Program

The Biofeedback Certificate provides an alternative for individuals who wish to obtain a comprehensive introduction to biofeedback, without undertaking an academic degree program. All training and didactic education is designed to follow the knowledge blueprint of the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA). Students pursuing the certificate must document access to biofeedback instrumentation including at least three modalities. The 9-credit certificate includes three academic courses, (basic, intermediate, and advanced biofeedback) that can be finished within an academic year: starting with basic (fall semester), continuing with intermediate (spring semester), and ending with advanced (summer semester).

Program Learning Outcomes

Proficiency in Biofeedback Technologies: Students will demonstrate proficiency in working with a variety of biofeedback technologies and equipment. They will develop the skills necessary to set up and calibrate biofeedback devices, accurately collect physiological data from clients, and interpret the feedback provided by the instruments.
Assessment and Intervention Strategies: Students will learn to assess client needs and develop appropriate biofeedback interventions based on individual goals and conditions. They will acquire knowledge of at least 3 different biofeedback modalities and understand their applications in addressing specific physiological and psychological concerns. Students will develop skills in designing and implementing biofeedback-based interventions to promote self-regulation and enhance well-being.
Ethical and Professional Practice: Students will understand and adhere to ethical guidelines and professional standards when practicing biofeedback. They will demonstrate knowledge of the ethical considerations specific to biofeedback, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and client autonomy. Students will also develop skills in establishing a therapeutic relationship, effectively communicating with clients, and maintaining professional boundaries in biofeedback sessions.

Career Opportunities

Biofeedback skills can lead to career opportunities within both clinical and optimal performance settings including military, sports and mental health programs.

Program Requirements

Admissions Requirements

Applicants for the non-degree Biofeedback Certificate must submit the following documents:

An official transcript from an accredited university demonstrating successful completion of an undergraduate degree, with a 3.0 GPA or better
Professional resume or CV
Personal statement

An interview with a faculty member may be required

The department chair may require a writing sample if applicants submit a personal statement that contains any grammatical mistakes, spelling errors, or poorly organized text.

University Learning Experience

Virtual Learning Experience (VLE) - Optional, Community Learning Experience (CLE) - Optional

All new students begin their studies with Welcome Week activities that are held online during the week ahead of the start of the semesters. Participation is strongly encouraged.

No face-to-face residential learning experiences are required for this Certificate. However, students are invited to attend Saybrook's biannual face-to-face Community Learning Experiences (falls of odd calendar years) or virtual learning experiences (first week of each fall and spring semester) where they will meet other Saybrook students, faculty, and staff.

Students enrolled in the MBM certificate programs must attend any residential, community, or virtual learning experience as required for the courses.

Program Specific Requirements

Students are asked to purchase their own biofeedback equipment to complete these courses. A limited number of biofeedback instruments are available for loan or rent. Please contact the APH Program Director for further information.

Credits/Hours

9 credits including three 3 credit courses.

Mode of delivery

Courses are presented as a combination of reading assignments, videos, live videoconferences, asynchronous class discussions and written assignments. Each class format may vary based on content and instructor preference and students are encouraged to review the course syllabus and Canvas course shell prior to the start of each term to assess the requirements of each course.

Length of program

This is a 9-credit Certificate that is completed in 1 year involving 3 consecutive terms.

Required Courses

APH 5622 - Basic Biofeedback 3 credit(s) (includes a one-day residential learning experience laboratory)
APH 5101 - Intermediate Biofeedback and Psychophysiological Recording 3 credit(s)
Choice of either:
APH 5595 - Advanced Biofeedback 3 credit(s)
Or
APH 5571 - Heart Rate Variability Biofeedback 3 credit(s)

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