What Does “Holistic” Mean in the Context of Mental Health Care?

If you’ve been researching therapists and their approaches, you may have come across the term “holistic.” It’s possible you dismissed those providers immediately, having an image in your head of someone wafting essential oils in the direction of a patient and asking them if their depression is cured yet. But holistic, in this context, simply means taking a comprehensive approach to healing. We recognize that mental well-being is influenced by the mind, body, and lifestyle. Rather than focusing on symptoms, holistic therapy looks at the whole person and how different aspects of life impact overall health. 

An Introduction to Holistic Mental Health Care

Holistic care encourages self-awareness and self-empowerment, helping clients make choices that promote balance in every area of life. This approach may include traditional talk therapy alongside practices such as mindfulness, yoga, meditation, nutrition counseling, and stress reduction techniques. It’s particularly helpful for those seeking more natural methods of managing stress and chemical imbalance, or those who want to integrate mental health care with overall wellness. 

The goal of holistic mental health care is to support lasting wellness by addressing the root causes of emotional distress. For example, someone experiencing anxiety may benefit from cognitive therapy combined with breathing exercises or physical activity to calm the nervous system and reduce tension. Likewise, individuals coping with depression might explore nutrition, sleep hygiene, and mindfulness to complement therapy sessions. 

Forge Your Own Path to Healing

Holistic mental health care offers a well-rounded path to healing that supports both mind and body. If you’d like to learn more, reach out to our holistic therapist today to explore how this approach can help you create a healthier, more balanced life.