How Does Holistic Therapy Work And What Is It Helpful For?

The use of holistic therapy has increased significantly in recent years. More therapists are using integrative approaches in tandem with traditional talk therapy methods to help clients heal emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Holistic therapy can make a significant difference in the lives of people facing various mental health conditions or life challenges. Below, explore how holistic therapy works and where to find holistic therapy practitioners. 

What is holistic therapy?

Holistic psychotherapy typically aims to treat the whole person from a client-centered lens. One of the core tenets of holistic medicine is the idea that the mind, body, and spirit exist in unity. Holistic therapists often try to improve the mind-body-spirit connection to promote healing. They also often integrate traditional therapy modalities with other forms of therapy to enhance well-being and help people heal from trauma. 

Holistic behavioral therapy for mental health

Holistic therapists often integrate complementary approaches and traditional therapy approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Therapists typically use CBT to treat a number of mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. This modality guides clients to identify and replace inaccurate or negative thoughts with more accurate thoughts about themselves. This therapeutic process can lead to more desirable behaviors and positive emotions. CBT may help people begin to recognize inaccurate thoughts when they arise outside of therapy. 

How does holistic therapy work? Integrative approaches in holistic health

Holistic therapists may use various complementary and alternative therapies to complement traditional mental health approaches. The following are a few examples. 

Breathwork as part of holistic health

Holistic therapists may lead clients through various types of breathwork to relieve anxiety and improve self-awareness. Breathwork could include:  

• Holotropic breathwork
• Shamanic breathwork
• Rebirthing breathwork
• Diaphragmatic breathing
• Box breathing
• Alternative nostril breathing

The type of breathing techniques a holistic therapist chooses may depend on each client's needs and conditions. Clients who don’t like a technique recommended by a holistic therapist can ask to try another option. The holistic therapy process can often be adapted to the evolving needs of each individual.  

Somatic therapy in conjunction with behavioral therapy

Somatic therapy is typically designed to tap into the mind-body connection to address the psychological and physical symptoms of various mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. Some therapists might use somatic experiencing therapy to treat trauma. Created by Dr. Peter Levine, somatic experiencing may help individuals address physical symptoms of trauma. 

Some people don’t experience the typical fight-or-flight response during a traumatic event but go through a freeze response. The freeze response can cause stress to remain in the body long after the event. Somatic experiencing may help clients address the physical symptoms of this trauma, potentially relieving emotional symptoms, as well. In addition, therapists might combine somatic experiencing therapy with cognitive-behavioral therapy to promote overall healing. 

Meditation to improve mental health

Holistic therapists may employ meditation techniques to help clients heal. For example, they may train them in mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness typically involves observing one’s thoughts as they come and go without identifying with them and being present in the moment. Individuals may learn to practice this technique outside of therapy—not just to address acute stress but to prevent stress from accumulating. In addition, mindfulness meditation doesn’t have to entail long silent sessions. Individuals can practice short five-minute sessions wherever they are by stopping and observing the sounds, scents, and sights around them. This process may calm the mind and body simultaneously and reduce stress levels. 

Yoga

Some holistic therapists may integrate yoga with psychotherapy. Yoga can have several benefits for mental and physical health, including but not limited to the following: 

• Improved sleep
• Stress relief
• An improved immune system
• Increased self-esteem

Depending on the client's needs, therapists might recommend or teach various types of yoga. For example, they might use Vinyasa, Iyengar, Yin, or Restorative yoga. Individuals uncomfortable with one kind of yoga can try another technique. Some people might find a different variation of yoga much more helpful for the mind and body. In addition, a holistic therapist may be able to modify the intensity of various yoga styles to adapt them to the client.  

How do holistic therapists decide what techniques to use? 

Holistic therapists are often trained in multiple holistic therapy techniques and decide which to use depending on each client's needs. Some individuals may benefit from more physical movement combined with psychotherapy, whereas others may appreciate meditative practices. A holistic therapist may also adapt the techniques used as the client advances in their treatment. 

Finding a holistic therapist

Some holistic therapists may advertise their services through local integrative health networks. Others may have their own website explaining the types of holistic practices they offer. If you’re searching for a psychotherapist who practices holistic techniques, you might look for someone with a minimum of a master’s degree in therapy or counseling, typically required for state licensure. After confirming the person has a current state license for psychotherapy, you might ask about any certifications in holistic practices they have attained. 

Online holistic therapy

Some people might be interested in certain holistic practices that aren’t readily available in their local community. In these cases, online therapy may be a more accessible option. Holistic therapy practitioners may practice through online platforms like BetterHelp, allowing clients to find therapists with specific holistic practices nationwide. In addition, clients can change therapists at any time until they find a holistic therapist who suits their preferences. They can connect with their therapist from home via audio, video, or live chat at a time that fits their schedule. 

Online therapy can be highly effective for numerous mental disorders. One study published in 2017 found that online cognitive-behavioral therapy—a modality commonly practiced by holistic therapists—was effective for depression, social anxiety, adjustment disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, among other disorders. 

Takeaway 

Holistic therapy is an integrative therapy approach that aims to promote healing of mind, body, and spirit. Holistic therapists often integrate traditional psychotherapy approaches with treatments from alternative medicine. If you are experiencing a mental health condition or want to improve your overall health through a holistic approach to healing, you might consider speaking with a holistic therapist in your community or online. Do not try an alternative medication, supplement, or invasive procedure without consulting a medical doctor.