Integrative Psych: What is it?

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Integrative psychology is a way of examining the causes and cures of human behavior through scientific study, spiritual guidance, and alternative medicine. This form of psychology is different from traditional clinical psychology, which tends to rely primarily on science, such as experimentation and drugs, to treat mental disorders. Psychologists who practice integrative psychology typically take into account the patient’s social, cultural, and spiritual beliefs when discussing treatment options.

Psychotherapy is often one of the main foundations of integrative psychology. It is the process of a psychologist talking to a patient to learn more about their behavior patterns and emotions, as well as any traumatic or self-destructive past events. By knowing the patient’s specific tendencies, a psychologist can then suggest coping strategies or other treatment options that are customized to work best for the patient.

While an integrative psychologist may advise a patient on medications, it is often used as an adjunct to other therapeutic techniques rather than as the sole treatment option. Instead of focusing solely on a patient’s possible brain chemistry imbalances, an integrative psychologist can implement methods to improve a patient’s well-being through alternative medicine. The exact program usually varies depending on the psychologist, but may include relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises. A psychologist may also recommend alternative medicines such as acupuncture, the Chinese medicinal practice that involves inserting needles into the skin to open up blocked energy pathways believed to cause mental or physical ailments.

Religious patients may choose psychologists who specialize in theistic integrative psychology. This type of psychology is based on using a patient’s religious or spiritual beliefs as a way to help them deal with mental or emotional problems. Proponents of this method believe it is more beneficial for religious or spiritual patients than using only scientific treatment options, and can improve morale and hope. The psychologist does not have to share the patient’s religious affiliation, but rather uses the patient’s specific beliefs as a way to help him deal with difficult issues.

Integrative psychology can be used to treat a wide variety of mental or emotional issues because it can be customized to fit patients’ particular situations. If a person suffers from a mental disorder, such as depression or bipolar disorder, they may combine medications with other forms of medication as a way to cope and feel better about their situation on a daily basis. This form of psychology can also be used to treat people who have experienced trauma, such as victims of rape or assault, or those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. It can also be applied to less severe emotional issues, such as difficulty coping with life changes, such as divorce or a child leaving home.

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