what is holistic counselling?

An overview of holistic counselling
As Western therapeutic models evolve, there is growing recognition that traditional talk therapy, which predominantly focuses on cognitive aspects, has some limitations. While conventional therapeutic approaches often centre on addressing symptoms and diagnosing mental disorders, holistic counselling offers a more inclusive and integrated approach. It acknowledges symptoms as indicators of underlying issues and recognises that addressing all facets of life is crucial. This article delves into the foundational principles and key features of holistic counselling, highlighting its distinctions from traditional therapy.

So, what exactly is holistic counselling?
At its core, holistic counselling is grounded in the belief that humans are multifaceted beings, comprising interconnected physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual elements. This perspective allows for comprehensive exploration during sessions, ensuring no aspect is overlooked. Moreover, it prioritises uncovering root causes of distress rather than merely treating symptoms.
In therapy, the counsellor is dedicated to working with each client as a unique, multidimensional individual shaped by past experiences and various aspects of their environment and inner world. This inclusive approach welcomes all dimensions of human existence into the therapeutic process, fostering a profound sense of compassion and humanity. Through collaborative efforts, the client and counsellor strive to enhance overall well-being, increase self-awareness, and promote personal growth across all facets of life.

Some of the core values in holistic counselling...
Although there are variations within the field, there are also numerous fundamental values that holistic counsellors share. A definition from the Principles and Purpose section of the Holistic Therapists Australia membership section is below: 

“[holistic] counselling involves the physical, imaginative, cognitive, emotional, interpersonal and spiritual dimensions of the client’s experience… [holistic counsellors] acknowledge the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, and the importance of addressing all aspects of a person's being in the healing process.” 

Holistic counsellors direct their attention to the client’s entirety as a being within their inner and outer realms, aiding them in addressing all facets of their life experience. This emphasis ensures that the therapeutic journey for each client is inherently distinctive and customised to their individual needs and life circumstances. Furthermore, holistic counselling places emphasis on empowerment, which assists the client to assume leadership in their journey and fosters autonomy.

What is the difference between holistic counselling and more traditional forms of therapy?
There are a myriad of therapeutic approaches available, ranging from cognitive behavioural models to somatic or creative therapies and everything in between. With all their differences, the distinct shared goal between most therapeutic models is to support the client to achieve a positive increase in mental and emotional well-being, which can be worked toward in many different ways. 

Holistic counselling differs from traditional therapies in its focus on the client’s whole life experience. In addition, holistic approaches give attention to the root cause of the client’s issue, rather than simply addressing the symptoms. This approach means that the client’s general life becomes relevant and aspects of well-being such as physical, emotional and spiritual health are considered, as well as an emphasis on self-care. Holistic therapists will often incorporate various therapeutic techniques such as mindfulness, somatic therapy, creative therapies and nature-based therapy. 

What are the benefits of holistic counselling?
Holistic counselling offers clients a therapeutic journey that caters for their overall well-being. The focus on underlying issues rather than only symptom control empowers the client to become an active participant in cultivating their journey of wholeness and flourishing. Holistic counselling focuses on helping clients to integrate their experiences of the mind, body and spirit and promotes the cultivation of an enduring and profound sense of balance. Many clients experience holistic counselling as a breath of fresh air, allowing them the space to move and truly be themselves in a compassionate and non-judgemental therapeutic container. 

Is holistic counselling for me?
Holistic therapy can be helpful for many mental health issues such as: anxiety, depression, relationship problems, eating disorders, self-esteem and more. Holistic counselling is also very effective for those who are simply interested in expanding and deepening their self-knowledge and overall well-being and can be a useful way to gain coping strategies and a balanced lifestyle. Due to its tailor-made nature, holistic counselling adapts to diverse needs and can apply to many clients. 

Although holistic therapy applies to many clients, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. Indeed, an individual may gravitate towards different therapeutic approaches at different times in their life. Regardless of the therapeutic approach used, is also very important to find a therapist who feels like a good fit for you. Bear in mind that it may take a few sessions to see if you feel happy to work with someone longer term, as it takes time to get to know your therapist and whether they work for you. If you have had trouble accessing true depth in more traditional forms of therapy, or if you are feeling called to approach your therapeutic journey with an integrated and holistic outlook, a holistic approach may be a good fit for your needs. 

Some final thoughts…
To conclude, holistic counselling provides clients with a broad and integrative approach to healing that attends to the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. By focusing on the uniqueness of the human experience, individual inherent wholeness, personal empowerment, and the inclusion of a diversity of therapeutic models, holistic counselling offers the opportunity for clients to access profound levels of healing.