Holistic Treatment

Explore holistic therapy - an integrative approach that treats the mind, body, and spirit to support complete healing. Learn how it works, its benefits for various conditions, and how to find qualified providers.

The History and Development of Holistic Approach

The roots of holistic healing can be traced back thousands of years to ancient healing traditions that viewed health as a state of balance between mind, body, and spirit. Holistic therapy stems from the ancient Greek philosophy of a natural approach to medicine and healing, led by Hippocrates, the "father of medicine" [2].

The modern holistic therapy movement in the United States gained significant momentum in the 1970s. In 1975, California played host to the National Conference on Holistic Health. Soon after, the American Holistic Health Association (AHHA) and the Holistic Medical Association were established [1].

The publication of groundbreaking books, such as Bessel van der Kolk's "The Body Keeps The Score" in 2015, further legitimized the holistic approach by providing scientific evidence for the physical manifestations of psychological trauma. This growing body of research has helped holistic therapy gain credibility in mainstream healthcare settings.

How Holistic Therapy Works

Holistic therapy operates on the fundamental principle that all aspects of a person are interconnected and must be considered for true healing to occur. The treatment process typically begins with a comprehensive assessment that considers:

Your mental and emotional health
Physical health and bodily symptoms
Social relationships and support systems
Spiritual beliefs and practices
Lifestyle factors like nutrition, sleep, and exercise
Environmental influences

Based on this assessment, a holistic therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may integrate various therapeutic approaches.

Sessions with a holistic therapist might include:

Traditional talk therapy techniques (like cognitive-behavioral therapy)
Body-centered practices (breathwork, movement, somatic experiencing)
Mindfulness and meditation
Creative expression (art, music, or writing)
Relaxation techniques
Discussion of lifestyle factors (nutrition, sleep, exercise)

The key to holistic therapy is that these various approaches aren't used in isolation but are integrated into a cohesive treatment plan that addresses the whole person.

Conditions That Benefit from Holistic Therapy

Holistic therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of mental health conditions and life challenges.

Anxiety and Stress

Holistic approaches address both the mental patterns of worry and the physical manifestations of anxiety. Techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation help calm the nervous system while cognitive approaches address anxious thought patterns [3].

Depression

Holistic therapy for depression might combine traditional psychotherapy with lifestyle changes, physical activity, and social connection. Improvements in diet and physical activity levels can help reduce anxiety, insomnia, depression, and mood swings [4].

Trauma and PTSD

Trauma often becomes stored in the body, making a holistic approach particularly valuable. Somatic therapies, mindfulness practices, and trauma-focused cognitive approaches work together to process traumatic experiences and release their hold on both mind and body [1].

Substance Use Disorders

Yoga is effective in decreasing substance use, as well as decreasing anxiety in people with substance use disorders. Mindfulness approaches help improve emotional regulation, which may in turn make it easier for people to avoid substance use [3].

Scientific Evidence Supporting Holistic Therapy

The evidence base for holistic therapy continues to grow, with research supporting many of the individual practices that comprise this approach. Several psychological interventions have demonstrated efficacy in improving holistic health outcomes, for example Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavioral Therapies and Problem Solving Therapies [4].

Some of the most compelling evidence relates to specific components of holistic therapy:

Mindfulness and Meditation: Research has found that mindfulness and meditation are useful for reducing anxiety and stress and can be adapted for various purposes and situations.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been consistently shown to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall mental well-being. When used alongside other therapies for addiction, physical activity can help improve depression, anxiety, drug use, and cravings [3].

Mind-Body Practices: Studies indicate that meditation might have a small effect on chronic pain and improve depression symptoms [1].

It's important to note that research in this area is still evolving. Some holistic therapies have not undergone any testing or have no scientific evidence to support their efficacy for treating or helping manage any health condition [2].

What to Expect During Holistic Therapy Sessions

If you're considering holistic therapy, understanding what to expect can help you approach the process with confidence:

Initial Assessment

Your first session will typically involve a comprehensive assessment that goes beyond standard mental health questionnaires. Your therapist will work with you to develop a plan of treatment based on your needs, preferences, and experiences. They'll likely do a thorough intake to understand your history before diving into treatment [1].

Treatment Planning

After the assessment, your therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. This collaborative process ensures that the approach aligns with your goals, preferences, and values.

Session Structure

Holistic therapy sessions are typically 45-60 minutes, similar to traditional therapy. However, the content of sessions may be more varied and might include discussion of recent experiences, mindfulness exercises, exploration of the connection between emotional states and physical sensations, and guidance on lifestyle adjustments.

Potential Benefits and Limitations

Benefits

Comprehensive Healing: Physically, holistic therapies help to relieve stress, relax tight muscles, and improve the immune system. The mental benefits reach far and wide, including creating an improved sense of self, increasing mental clarity, and reducing stress and anxiety [2].

Personalized Approach: Because holistic therapy considers your unique combination of mental, physical, and spiritual factors, the treatment plan is highly individualized.

Skill Development: The tools and skills learned in holistic treatment can be used in all areas of a person's life to help them handle the many stresses, conflicts, and triggers that will inevitably threaten their mental health [2].

Prevention Focus: Beyond addressing current issues, holistic therapy emphasizes developing habits and practices that promote ongoing wellness and prevent future problems.

Limitations

Varying Evidence Levels: While some components of holistic therapy are well-supported by research, others have less empirical backing [2].

Accessibility: Holistic therapy may not be as widely available as traditional approaches, and insurance coverage can be limited for some complementary therapies.

Practitioner Qualifications: A person should also note that unqualified holistic practitioners may cause more harm than good, and each different therapy may have its own risks [2].

Not a Replacement for Medical Care: For severe mental health conditions, holistic therapy should complement, not replace, conventional psychiatric care.

Finding the Right Holistic Therapist

Qualifications to Look For

When seeking a holistic therapist, it's important to find someone with appropriate training and credentials. A trained and qualified practitioner or healthcare professional should always carry out holistic therapies [2]. Look for:

Core Mental Health Credentials: A license in clinical psychology, social work, counseling, or marriage and family therapy provides a foundation in evidence-based mental health care.
Specialized Training: Additional certifications in specific holistic modalities, such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, somatic experiencing, or integrative medicine.

At-Home Practices That Complement Holistic Therapy

While working with a qualified holistic therapist provides structure and guidance for your healing journey, there are many practices you can incorporate into your daily life to enhance the benefits of therapy:

Mindfulness and Meditation

Even short daily practices can help you develop greater awareness of your thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. Start with just 5 minutes of mindful breathing each day.

Physical Movement

Regular physical activity supports both mental and physical health. Find forms of movement that feel enjoyable rather than punishing—walking in nature, gentle yoga, dance, or whatever appeals to you.

Nutritional Support

The connection between nutrition and mental health is increasingly well-established. Focus on incorporating more whole foods, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants.

Sleep Hygiene

Quality sleep is foundational to mental health. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and ensure your sleep environment is comfortable.

Is Holistic Therapy Right for You?

Holistic therapy may be particularly well-suited for you if:

You experience physical symptoms alongside your mental health concerns
You're interested in developing skills and practices for long-term wellness
You're looking for an approach that honors your complete being—mind, body, and spirit
Traditional therapy approaches haven't fully addressed your concerns
You prefer an active role in your healing process

However, holistic therapy might not be the best fit if:

You're experiencing a severe mental health crisis requiring immediate intervention
You strongly prefer a more structured, symptom-focused approach
You have limited time or resources to dedicate to complementary practices

Take the Next Step in Your Healing Journey

Finding the right support for your mental health is a deeply personal journey. Holistic therapy offers a comprehensive approach that honors the complexity of human experience and draws on diverse healing modalities to address the whole person.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply seeking greater well-being and personal growth, holistic therapy may provide the integrative support you need to heal and thrive.

Ready to explore holistic therapy options? Browse Our Treatment Directory to find qualified holistic therapists in your area who can support your unique healing journey. Our directory makes it easy to filter by specialty, insurance acceptance, and location to find the perfect match for your needs.

Remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By taking this step, you're honoring your whole self and opening the door to more complete healing and well-being.

References

[1] Healthline. "Holistic Therapy: What It Is, Benefits, and Precautions." https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/holistic-therapy

[2] Medical News Today. "Holistic therapy: Types, benefits, and more." https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/holistic-therapy

[3] Oxford Treatment. "Holistic Therapy: Definition, Types, & Benefits." https://oxfordtreatment.com/addiction-treatment/therapy/holistic/

[4] Northern Kentucky University. "A Holistic Approach to Mental Health." https://onlinedegrees.nku.edu/programs/healthcare/msn/pmhnp/holistic-approach-to-mental-health/