Holistic Therapies

What are holistic therapies for addiction and mental health?

Holistic therapies for addiction and mental health take a comprehensive approach that takes into account a person’s mind, body, and spirit for improving overall wellness, addressing underlying causes, and supporting other recovery treatment modalities.

What types of holistic therapies are commonly used for addiction and mental health?

The most common holistic therapies used for treating addiction and mental health include:

• Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
• Guided meditation
• Transcendental meditation
• Mindfulness-based relapse prevention (MBRP)
• Yoga
• Breathwork
• Acupuncture
• Art therapy
• Music therapy
• Equine-assisted therapy
• Nutritional therapy
• Massage therapy
• Biofeedback/Neurofeedback
• Aromatherapy

Can holistic therapies be used alone, or do they complement other treatments?

In general, holistic therapies can be used alone for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health considerations, but for more serious conditions, holistic therapies are likely more effective in conjunction with professional care. 

What is the role of mindfulness and meditation in holistic therapy?

Mindfulness and meditation support practicing being present in the moment and improving awareness. This helps foster emotional regulation and reduce stress, and will naturally help other holistic and clinical treatments.

How does yoga or exercise contribute to addiction and mental health recovery?

Yoga and other physical activities and exercises strengthen the mind-body connection, enhance physical health, emotional balance, and mindfulness.

Some of the many benefits include:

• Stress and anxiety reduction
• Nervous system regulation
• Emotional regulation and mindfulness
• Physical health restoration
• Self-esteem and empowerment
• Mood enhancement
• Neurochemical balance
• Structure and discipline

How long do holistic therapy programs typically last?

Holistic therapies are typically included as an addition to clinical therapies and other treatments in inpatient or outpatient addiction and mental health recovery programs. Duration varies depending on the program and each person’s particular recovery needs and journey.

Who is a good candidate for holistic therapies?

Here are examples of those who might significantly benefit from implementing holistic therapies into their recovery program:

• Individuals with substance use disorders or behavioral addictions
• Individuals with mental health conditions
• Those who have experienced trauma
• Those who need emotional and physical balance

Are holistic therapies covered by insurance?

Coverage for holistic therapies for addiction and mental health varies widely depending on the therapy, insurance provider, plan, and whether the treatment is deemed medically necessary. 

Holistic therapies, such as mindfulness, yoga, acupuncture, art therapy, and others, are increasingly recognized for their benefits, but insurance coverage is not guaranteed and often limited compared to conventional treatments like EMDR or psychotherapy.