What is Holistic Counselling?
Holistic counselling is a form of therapy that considers mind, body and spirit connection in addressing mental health and wellbeing. Unlike traditional counselling, which often focuses solely on specific symptoms or issues, holistic counselling looks at the bigger picture and the person as a whole. Our thoughts and struggles impact every part of us, yet the world around us impacts our thoughts and moods. By having a thorough understanding of the person as a whole, counsellors can create better more effective approaches.
What’s the Difference Between Holistic Counselling and Traditional Counselling?
Traditional counselling typically focuses on specific problems or symptoms, aiming to alleviate them through various therapeutic techniques. In contrast, holistic counselling views individuals as complex beings with interconnected systems. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, holistic counsellors aim to address the root causes of issues by considering the whole person and their environment.
Benefits of Holistic Counselling
Holistic counselling offers several benefits, including:
- Comprehensive Approach: By addressing the mind, body, and spirit, holistic counselling provides a more thorough understanding of individual needs. We look at the root cause of struggle and create a plan on how to support the individual in all areas.
- Long-lasting Results: By targeting underlying causes, holistic counselling aims to achieve lasting improvements in mental and emotional well-being. Looking at the root cause allows us to eliminate or minimise the issue and create harmony and peace long term.
- Personalized Treatment: Holistic counsellors tailor their approach to each individual, recognizing that everyone’s journey to healing is unique. Whether facing relationship or individual issues, everyone is walking on their own unique path.
- Enhanced Self-awareness: Focusing on self-awareness and responsibility in the relationship, holistic counselling
- helps individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their experiences as well as their partner. This builds deeper connection and harmony in relationships as we learn to handle difficult situations with kindness and patience.
- Improved Quality of Life: By promoting balance, harmony and support in all areas of life, holistic counselling can lead to greater overall satisfaction and fulfillment. We create deeper connections with those around us and feel fulfilled in life.
What Techniques Does a Holistic Counsellor Use?
Holistic counsellors employ a variety of techniques to support their clients and their needs. In includes The Gottman method, Emotional Focused Therapy, Jungian therapy, CBT and many others. The goal of using different therapy modalities is to meet the couple where they are, using different tools to create a path to where they want to be.
Integrating Holistic Approaches
Holistic counselling integrates various aspects of a person’s life, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. By addressing these dimensions holistically, counsellors empower individuals to achieve greater balance, resilience, and self-fulfillment.
How Holistic Counselling May Help You
Holistic counselling may help individuals or couples who are struggling with:
- Stress and Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma and PTSD
- Relationship Challenges
- Grief and Loss
Through holistic counselling, individuals can gain insights, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience to navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
Finding the Right Holistic Counsellor
When seeking a holistic counsellor, consider the following factors:
- Credentials and Experience: Look for counsellors with appropriate training and experience in both traditional and holistic approaches.
- Personal Compatibility: Choose a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and supported. It’s OK to find a different counsellor if something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. The sessions with your counsellor are all about you and finding the best solution to the struggle.
- Referrals and Recommendations: Seek recommendations from other trusted sources or review testimonials from previous clients. Give the counsellor a call and chat about the issue you’re facing to get a feel for the counsellor and their approach.
- Practical Considerations: Consider logistical factors such as location, availability, and cost. For a great counsellor who you click with it’s worth travelling a little bit extra, however, think about if it will cause further stress in your life.
What is the Science Behind Holistic Counselling?
While holistic counselling draws on principles from various spiritual and philosophical traditions, it is also supported by scientific research. Numerous studies in Australia and around the world support holistic approaches in therapy. National Library of Medicine publishes 89.4% of individuals reported mindfulness helped to reduce stress levels and relax more. 86.6% of individuals felt better emotionally and 69.3% of individuals reported better sleep after engaging in mindfulness and a holistic approach.
The Bottom Line
Holistic counselling offers a holistic approach to mental health and well-being, addressing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit. By integrating various techniques and modalities, holistic counsellors support individuals in achieving greater balance, resilience, and self-fulfillment. If you’re seeking support for your relationship and want to know how holistic counselling can benefit your relationship book a call here.