Holistic therapy in addiction treatment: definition, types, benefits, and effectivity

Holistic therapy in addiction treatment is an integrative type of psychotherapy that incorporates both traditional and non-traditional therapies to help the individual as a whole. Holistic psychotherapy views the patient as a complete being and uses a collaborative approach to help them gain awareness. With a deeper understanding of how emotions, thoughts, physical experiences, and spiritual beliefs work together to support behavior, patients find self-acceptance and healing.

Types of holistic therapy in addiction treatment include somatic therapy, breathwork, biofeedback therapy, biodynamic psychotherapy, bodywork, reiki, brainspotting, hypnosis, mindfulness meditation, and yoga therapy.

Benefits of holistic therapy in addiction treatment encompass complete body treatment, emphasizing prevention, addressing underlying causes, development of self-esteem and confidence, and cost-effectiveness. The benefits of holistic therapy in addiction treatment stem from its holistic approach, which addresses the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of addiction while promoting self-awareness, empowerment, and long-term recovery.

Effectivity of holistic therapy in addiction treatment shows promise due to its comprehensive approach. By addressing the root causes of addiction rather than just managing symptoms, holistic therapy empowers individuals to cultivate a more profound and sustainable path to healing. Despite its controversy in scientific communities, combining holistic therapy with conventional treatments offers comprehensive addiction care.

What is holistic therapy?

Holistic therapy is a form of psychotherapy that integrates the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions of an individual. It emphasizes a patient’s wholeness and fosters self-awareness through collaboration, exploring the interconnectedness of emotions, thoughts, bodily experiences, and spiritual beliefs. This holistic understanding empowers patients toward self-acceptance and healing.

This approach goes beyond treating isolated symptoms, seeking instead to understand the underlying causes of an issue. By addressing these root causes, holistic therapy empowers individuals to achieve deeper healing and enhanced well-being across various aspects of their lives, including physical health, mental health, and relationships.

The article “A Short History of Clinical Holistic Medicine” by Søren Ventegodt et al., published in The Scientific World Journal in 2007, explores the origins and evolution of holistic therapy. It explains that holistic therapy, which is rooted in the ancient hippocratic tradition, now integrates modern research, complementary medicine, psychodynamic therapy, and bodywork. This comprehensive approach is evident in traditional systems like ayurveda and traditional chinese medicine. The article highlights how this integrated method effectively treats a wide range of health issues, including physical, mental, existential, and sexual health problems.

What are the types of holistic therapy?

The types of holistic therapy are listed below.

• Somatic therapy: Somatic therapy is a holistic approach to healing that focuses on the mind-body connection. It recognizes that emotional and psychological issues manifest in physical symptoms and aims to address these issues throughout the body. By incorporating techniques like dance, and meditation, somatic therapy helps individuals release stored tension and trauma from the body, leading to improved mental and emotional well-being. This approach emphasizes the importance of experiencing and processing emotions physically to achieve a more integrated and balanced state of being.
• Breathwork: Breathwork is a practice that involves conscious control and manipulation of breathing patterns. In holistic therapy, it is often used as a tool to help individuals connect with their bodies, calm their minds, and release tension or stress. By focusing on their breath, individuals regulate their nervous system, which helps reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.
• Biofeedback: Biofeedback therapy is a holistic approach that involves training patients to consciously regulate bodily functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. This technique aims to improve overall health by fostering greater awareness and control over physiological processes. Biofeedback is particularly effective for reducing stress, headaches, and pain, as well as reconditioning injured muscles and managing asthma attacks. By addressing both the mind and body, biofeedback therapy helps individuals develop a deeper connection and understanding of their physiological responses, promoting holistic healing and recovery.
• Biodynamic psychotherapy: Biodynamic psychotherapy combines allopathic and holistic therapy, including physical massage. It differs from regular massage due to its intention, directionality, ethical boundaries, and holistic view of individuals as self-organizing systems. Both biodynamic psychotherapy and massage aim to promote self-regulation, new insights, changed perception, and better communication within the individual’s body, spirit, and mind system.
• Bodywork: Bodywork, including acupuncture and massage, is a type of holistic therapy that considers the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and emotions in promoting overall well-being. Acupuncture, an ancient chinese practice, targets specific points in the body to restore the flow of energy, or qi, which alleviates physical pain, anxiety, and depression. Massage, on the other hand, involves manipulating the body’s soft tissues to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and promote relaxation. Both modalities address physical ailments and contribute to mental and emotional balance, making them integral parts of holistic healing approaches.
• Reiki: Reiki is a type of holistic therapy that involves energy healing. It is based on the concept that a life force energy flows through the body, and when this energy is low, stress or illness is more likely to occur. During a reiki session, the patient lies on a table or mat while the practitioner places their hands lightly on or near the body, aiming to promote relaxation and facilitate the body’s natural healing processes. This gentle touch helps to release blocked or stagnant energy, allowing it to flow freely again.
• Brainspotting: Brainspotting is a therapeutic approach that integrates principles from mind-body therapies with a unique focus on eye positioning. It is based on the idea that the direction in which a person gazes influences their emotional and psychological condition. During a brainspotting session, the therapist helps the patient identify specific eye positions that correspond to areas of emotional distress or trauma. By focusing on these “brainspots” while processing difficult memories or emotions, the therapy aims to retrain the brain’s responses and alleviate emotional pain. This technique accesses deep brain structures related to emotional regulation and healing, offering a way to address trauma and stress that is not fully accessible through traditional talk therapy alone.
• Hypnosis: Hypnosis, known as hypnotherapy, is a form of psychotherapy that induces an altered state of awareness characterized by deep relaxation and heightened focus. During hypnosis, a trained therapist guides the individual into a trance-like state, where they are highly receptive to suggestions aimed at addressing specific issues such as anxiety, behavior change, or chronic pain. Despite appearing similar to sleep, individuals remain fully aware of their surroundings and respond to the therapist’s cues. This heightened state of focus makes individuals more receptive to suggestions that lead to changes in behavior or thought patterns. After the session, individuals return to their normal state of consciousness. The precise mechanism through which hypnotherapy works is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the planting of new thoughts or ideas in the subconscious mind, leading to changes in behavior and perception.
• Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness meditation is a widely practiced technique that helps individuals train their minds to focus on the present moment without judgment. This practice involves paying close attention to one’s thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations as they occur in the here and now. Instead of trying to change or avoid these experiences, mindfulness encourages simply observing them and accepting them as they are. This non-judgmental awareness helps reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being by fostering a deeper connection to the present moment and promoting a sense of calm and clarity.
• Yoga therapy: Yoga is widely recognized as an integral component of holistic therapy, offering a range of benefits for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Yoga incorporates physical postures, breathwork, and meditation to promote holistic health, improving flexibility and strength, and enhancing overall wellness.

Where is holistic therapy used?

Holistic therapy is used in treating psychological conditions, including addictions, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), emotional difficulties, family problems, stress, trauma, and work-related issues. By addressing the individual as a whole, this approach is particularly beneficial for complex issues that impact multiple aspects of a person’s life and do not have a singular cause.

The article “Integrative medicine in anxiety disorders” by Diogo Amorim et al., published in the journal Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice in 2018, highlights the effectiveness of the holistic therapy approach in treating anxiety disorders.

Another study titled “Impact of holistic stress management program on academic stress and well-being of Indian adolescent girls: A randomized controlled trial” by Sreevani Rentala et al., published in the Journal of Education and Health Promotion in 2019, demonstrates that a holistic stress management program has a positive impact on effectively reducing depression, anxiety, stress and enhancing overall health.

According to the study, adolescent girls face a heightened vulnerability to stress compared to boys. This susceptibility is concerning as stress in adolescence is correlated with risky behaviors such as sexual activities, substance addiction, self-harm, and unhealthy eating habits.

Is holistic therapy effective in addiction treatment?

Yes, holistic therapy is effective in addiction treatment as it incorporates empirically validated techniques like acupuncture, yoga, and deep breathing, which have shown benefits for reducing stress and promoting mental and physical well-being. The article “An Holistic Approach to Substance Abuse Treatment” authored by Kathy T. Breslin et al. and published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2003, emphasizes the effectiveness of a holistic approach in facilitating the transition to a drug-free lifestyle. Additionally, the article outlines the outcomes of increased patient satisfaction and treatment involvement.

The research article “Yoga for Substance Use Disorder in Women: A Systematic Review” by Jennifer Brooks et al., published in the International Journal of Yoga Therapy in 2021, critically evaluated yoga’s effectiveness in treating substance use disorders (SUD), particularly in women. The review indicated that yoga, primarily hatha yoga, yielded favorable results as an adjunct to conventional treatments.

A 2017 research study titled “Mindfulness Meditation for Chronic Pain: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis,” authored by Lara Hilton et al. and published in the journal of Annals of Behavioral Medicine, found that mindfulness meditation was associated with statistically significant improvements in depression, physical health-related quality of life, and mental health-related quality of life.

How does holistic therapy work in addiction treatment?

Holistic therapy works in addiction treatment by following a three-stage process of healing: feeling, understanding, and letting go. Holistic therapy, as described in the 2003 research article “Holistic Medicine III: The Holistic Process Theory of Healing” by Søren Ventegodt et al. in the journal The Scientific World, involves acknowledging and working with the patient’s consciousness to foster personal development and holistic healing. It views human existence as a spectrum from abstract consciousness to physical matter, with body, feelings, and mind in between. The disruption of cells due to “blockages” leads to illness and suffering. Holistic therapy aims to address these disruptions by allowing patients to feel, understand, and let go of negative emotions and decisions that contribute to their suffering.

Combining traditional and alternative therapies to address underlying issues with techniques of mindfulness meditation are used to promote self-care and healthy habits. This further helps in building a support system through healthy relationships and participation in support groups.

What are the benefits of holistic therapy in addiction treatment?

The benefits of holistic therapy in addiction treatment are listed below.

• Complete body treatment: Holistic therapy recognizes the mind-body connection, understanding that mental health issues manifest physically. By working with the body to regulate the nervous system, holistic healing aims to improve both mental and physical health. When the mind, body, and spirit are aligned, the body naturally heals itself.
• Emphasis on prevention: Holistic therapy aims to enhance overall health and longevity by educating individuals and promoting positive lifestyle choices that nurture the mind, body, and spirit. This approach prioritizes prevention over mere treatment, fostering wellness and vitality throughout life.
• Addresses underlying causes: Holistic therapy delves into the root causes of mental health issues, offering a deeper and more sustainable approach compared to traditional treatments. While conventional therapies offer temporary relief, holistic therapy aims to identify and address underlying factors, paving the way for lasting positive changes in mental well-being.
• Develops self-esteem and confidence: The article “An Holistic Approach to Substance Abuse Treatment” by Kathy T. Breslin et al., published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 2003, discusses how integrating modalities such as dance/movement therapy, tai chi, and recreational therapy helps patients develop a stronger sense of self-identity, self-esteem, and self-confidence.
• Cost effectiveness: Holistic therapy typically requires minimal or no financial investment. While consulting a trained holistic therapist for personalized guidance is valuable, practices like mindfulness, meditation, dance, yoga at home, and outdoor exercise are cost-free and easily integrated into daily routines.

Are there some cons for using holistic therapy in addiction treatment?

Yes, there are some cons for using holistic therapy in addiction treatment such as lack of standardization leading to inconsistent treatment quality. Additionally, lack of rigorous scientific validation, making it difficult to determine their effectiveness. Holistic therapies often require a significant time commitment, which is challenging for individuals with busy schedules or those seeking quick results. There’s a risk of encountering misinformation or unproven methods, particularly when consulting non-certified practitioners. Moreover, holistic therapy is often most effective when used alongside traditional treatments, and relying solely on holistic methods does not address all aspects of addiction comprehensively. Finally, many holistic therapies are not covered by insurance, making them less accessible for individuals with limited financial resources.

The article “Holistic Medicine: Advances and Shortcomings” authored by James S. Gordon, and published in the Western Journal of Medicine in 1982, discusses several shortcomings of holistic therapy such as lack of scientific evidence, potential for unrealistic expectations, and potential for misuse of holistic practices.

Gordon explains that therapeutic approaches like acupuncture and herbalism often rely on anecdotal reports rather than rigorous scientific studies to establish their efficacy. This reliance on anecdotal evidence raises questions about the validity and reliability of these practices in treating various health conditions.

Additionally, the article highlights the issue of unrealistic expectations in holistic therapy, noting that the emphasis on individual responsibility for health leads to blaming the sick for their illness and ignoring social and economic factors that influence health outcomes. Gordon further warns of potential misuse, with practitioners exploiting patients’ desperation for alternative treatments.

How is holistic therapy done in addiction treatment?

Holistic therapy is done in addiction treatment by integrating various holistic approaches with conventional methods such as the 12-step program, group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy. Its objective is to provide personalized care based on each patient’s unique needs, concerns and situations. Treatment is provided in a safe and supportive environment, where patients feel valued, respected, and cared for with empathy. Holistic therapy prioritizes addressing the root causes of addiction, rather than merely managing the physical symptoms, to ensure a comprehensive and impactful recovery process.

What does a holistic therapy session look like in addiction treatment?

A holistic therapy session in addiction treatment begins with an initial meeting lasting 45 to 60 minutes, during which the patient and healthcare provider establish treatment goals. Subsequent sessions, usually 45 to 50 minutes long, focus on the patient’s specific needs, allowing for flexibility in therapeutic approaches as treatment progresses. The initial phase of each session involves a check-in to assess the patient’s emotional and physical state, and in group settings, participants share personal information only if they feel comfortable.

Following the check-in, the therapist guides the patient through various tailored exercises or assignments, which range from mental activities like meditation and discussion to physical activities such as walking, massage, or yoga. Early exercises in holistic therapy typically involve massage and bodywork, targeting areas of tension thought to originate from repressed emotions. As trust builds, patients relax and become more receptive to their emotions. Following this, talk therapy assists in comprehending these emotions and their relevance. The therapist highlights the importance of emotional regulation by acknowledging repressed feelings, even when patients resist.

Over time, patients develop the ability to embrace and integrate these emotions. The last, and often the most difficult, stage involves engaging in mind and spirit exercises to explore deeper life meanings. This includes philosophical psychoeducation among other existential approaches.

What are the differences between holistic therapy and regular therapy?

Regular therapy focuses on the mind and behavior for addiction treatment, while holistic therapy takes a whole-person approach, including body, mind, and spirit. The differences between holistic therapy and regular therapy are described in the table below.