Abstract

Medical schools have recognized and endorsed integrative health care. As such, integrated care is becoming more common. Biofeedback practitioners already trained to work in medical settings and those willing to be so trained have a real opportunity to expand their base of services because self-regulation is an important part of integrated care and lifestyle change. Working in medical settings requires a broad base of knowledge and skill, including an understanding of both the formal and informal rules that govern activities in such settings. Having a mentor or supervisor who already possesses the requisite skills can be most useful in helping the practitioner acquire the needed knowledge and skills and to make a shift from focusing on pathology to one of promoting good physical and mental health. Issues of competence, informed consent, and confidentiality must also be addressed and often in ways not common in other settings.