Integrative body-mind-spirit social work: an empirically based approach to assessment and treatment

Abstract

'In recent years, interest in non-Western curative techniques has increased significantly in the U.S. Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit-Social Work is the first bookto strongly connect Western therapy with Eastern philosophy and practices, while also providing a comprehensive practice agenda for social work and mental health professionals. This breakthrough text, written by highly regarded researchers from both Asia and America, presents a holistic, therapeutic approach that ties Eastern philosophy and treatment techniques to Western forms of therapy in order to help bring about positive, transformative changes in individuals and families.' 'Integrative therapy focuses on the body-mind-spirit relationship, recognizes the importance of spirituality tohuman existence, acknowledges and utilizes the power of both mind and body, and reaches beyond self-actualization or symptom reduction to connect individuals to a larger sense of themselves and to their communities. Here, the authors provide a step-by-step description of assessment and treatment techniques that employ a holistic perspective. They first establish the conceptual foundation of integrative body-mind-spirit social work, then expertly describe assessment and treatment techniquesthat utilize integrative and holistic perspectives. Several case studies demonstrate the approach in action, such as one with breast cancer patients who participated in body-mind-spirit and social support groups and another in which trauma survivors used meditation to get onto a path of healing.' 'These examples provide empirical evidence that integrative body-mind-spirit social work is indeed a practical therapeutic approach in bringing about tangible changes in clients. The authors also discuss ethical issues and give tips for learning this approach.' 'Professionals in social work, psychology, counseling, andnursing, as well as graduate students in courses on integral, alternative, or complementary clinical practice will find this much-needed resource that complements the growing interest in alternatives to traditional Western psychotherapy.'--BOOK JACKET