Holistic Approach to Mental Health Care
As the old saying goes, "There is more than one way to skin the cat." Because of modern science, we understand, with great precision, what types of things cause other things. We also recognize the diversity of influence from a broad range of domains on the human experience. In psychology, we consider social, psychological, cultural, and biological factors which is why we take a holistic approach to mental health care.
Holistic Approach to Mental Health Care
Therapists work with many different approaches, each with varying assessments and interventions. When starting in the field of mental health, many therapists wonder, "Which model is the best? Which factor matters most?" The truth is, they all play a role.
Solving Problems
We often get stuck in attempting to fix a problem through the first thing we identify:
I drink too much; I must be addicted to alcohol.
My husband cheated on me; he must not be sexually fulfilled.
I cannot find a good job; I must not be outgoing enough.
I am overweight; I must have bad genes.
And while there "may" be truth in short-drawn conclusions, there are also various determinants, not as alternatives, but as contributors. If true, we can take a holistic approach to complex situations that generate better perspectives, lasting changes, and more permanent resolutions.
I remember working with a client who struggled to find a partner. He felt he wasn't handsome enough and spent most of his time trying to make himself physically attractive. Admittedly, he was no "Don Juan," but I felt there was more to his situation. As it turned out, he had a tiny social group, and he thought he wasn't likable because he was older. He also was taught you marry somebody who has never been married because that was the acceptable "way".
As we worked through these details, my client began to date more, often women who had been in a previous marriage. Eventually, he found his match. Imagine as we wrapped up, he realized looking "good" was only a small part of a giant puzzle.
Where to Find a Holistic Approach to Mental Health
If you need help looking at all the different pieces of the puzzle, Wasatch Family Therapy would be honored to help you on your journey. Schedule a therapy session in Utah by calling or texting 801.944.4555.
*This post was originally written by a former therapist at Wasatch Family Therapy but has since been revamped.
