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Exploring mental health options can often feel like a daunting task. You may have tried the usual routes, but still find yourself searching for something different. Something that speaks to your unique experience and offers new ways to manage your well-being. If this sounds like you, it might be time to explore some lesser-known holistic therapies for better mental health. 

In this blog, we’re shining a light on five holistic therapies that could be just what you’re looking for. These aren’t your everyday treatments; they’re lesser-known gems that could make a significant difference in your journey. We’ll dive into transformative therapies like Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), each offering a fresh perspective on mental health care.

1. Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT):

Let’s start with Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT. Imagine you’re facing a stressful situation at work, or perhaps there’s a personal challenge that’s been bothering you for a while. Traditional therapies you’ll find during typical counselling or psychology sessions are often effective, but sometimes you need something that helps right at the moment of stress. This is where EFT can play a crucial role.

What is EFT?

EFT is a distinctive approach that combines gentle tapping on specific points of the body with targeted psychological focus. It’s rooted in the principles of ancient Chinese acupressure, but tailored for modern-day mental health challenges. It’s been studied extensively and found to be very effective for people suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD and more. The beauty of EFT lies in its simplicity and the fact that you can use it anywhere – whether you’re at home, at work, or even on the move.

How does EFT help?

Picture this: You’re about to give a presentation, and the nerves kick in. With EFT, you can discreetly tap on specific points, like the side of your hand or under your eye, while focusing on calming thoughts. This process helps in reducing the immediate anxiety, making you feel more centred and ready to tackle the task at hand. It’s a practical tool that empowers you to take control of your emotional state, providing relief when you need it most.

2. Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP):

Have you ever wished you could reframe the way your mind perceives certain situations, or perhaps change some behavioural patterns that seem so ingrained? Neuro Linguistic Programming, commonly known as NLP, might be the holistic therapy you’re searching for.

What is NLP?

NLP is a fascinating approach that operates on the premise that we can change the way we think, feel, and behave by altering our linguistic and cognitive patterns. It’s about understanding the language of your mind and using it to positively influence your mental health.

How does NLP enhance mental wellbeing?

NLP demonstrates that a person can develop successful habits by amplifying helpful behaviours and diminishing more negative ones. It also allows you to change, adopt or eliminate behaviours, as you desire, and gives you the ability to choose your mental, emotional, and physical states of well-being. This can lead to noticeable improvements in areas like self-esteem, motivation, and overall mental resilience.

3. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR):

If you’re dealing with the effects of trauma or long-standing anxiety, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, or EMDR, offers a unique and effective approach to healing.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is an innovative and evidence-based form of psychotherapy designed to help people recover from trauma and other distressing life experiences. It involves the client recalling distressing images whilst receiving one of several types of bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements.

How does EMDR work for mental health?

The process, which might sound unconventional, is actually grounded in extensive research. The idea is that the bilateral stimulation of EMDR can lessen the emotional impact of traumatic memories. For example, consider someone who has experienced a car accident and is left with persistent anxiety. Through EMDR, they can work to desensitise these distressing memories, reducing their impact and helping them regain a sense of mental peace.

4. PSYCH-K™ 

PSYCH-K™ is a powerful method of transforming limiting beliefs into supportive beliefs at the subconscious level of the mind. How often has your conscious mind believed one thing, yet your subconscious mind believed another, and this has led to self-sabotaging behaviours?

What is PSYCH-K

PSYCH-K™ is a groundbreaking approach to facilitating change at the subconscious level where at least 95% of our consciousness actually operates. It is a unique blend of various tools for change, some contemporary and some ancient, derived from contemporary neuroscience research, as well as ancient mind/body wisdom. 

How does PSYCH-K™ help mental health?

In the hands of a professional mental health practitioner, it becomes an effective adjunct to traditional talk-based therapies. Overall, it helps individuals to consciously and subconsciously re-perceive themselves, their circumstances, and their personal potential, in order to lead a happier and more satisfying life.

5. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (MBCT):

In a world where our minds are constantly racing from one thought to another, finding peace can often seem like a distant dream. This is where Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or MBCT, comes into play, blending the calming practice of mindfulness with the structured approach of cognitive behavioural therapy.

What is MBCBT?

MBCBT is a holistic therapy that focuses on present moment awareness combined with cognitive behavioural strategies. It teaches individuals to recognise and alter negative thought patterns, reducing the impact of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

MBCBT’s role in enhancing your mental health:

Consider this scenario: You’re constantly worried about the future, leading to overwhelming anxiety. MBCBT helps by guiding you to focus on the present, acknowledging and accepting your thoughts without judgment. This approach not only reduces anxiety, but also improves your overall emotional well-being, leading to greater mental clarity and peace.

Conclusion

The holistic therapies we’ve discussed – EFT, NLP, EMDR, PSYCH-K™ and MBCBT – open up a world of possibilities for those seeking alternative methods to complement their mental health care. However, it’s crucial to remember that these therapies should always be conducted by trained and experienced professionals.

At Integrated Health Specialists, we understand the importance of a tailored approach that respects and responds to your unique experiences and needs. We offer a blend of both traditional and alternative therapies, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to your mental wellbeing. We believe in empowering you with tools and strategies that align with your personal journey, helping you to not just heal but to flourish.

Embarking on this path with a team like ours means you’re supported by professionals who can guide you through these therapies safely and effectively. Whether it’s managing stress, overcoming past traumas, or simply seeking a deeper sense of self-awareness, our approach is designed to cater to you as an individual.

If you’re ready to begin or continue your journey towards better mental health, reach out to Integrated Health Specialists today. With us, you’re not just starting a therapy; you’re stepping into a journey of healing, growth, and personal discovery. Let’s work together to create a unique plan that works for you and your journey towards mental wellness.