Category Archives: Uncategorized

What is Holotropic breathwork?

Holotropic Breathwork is a therapeutic approach that uses deep, rapid breathing techniques to access altered states of consciousness for healing and self-exploration. The term “holotropic” means “moving toward wholeness,” and this method was developed by Stanislav Grof, a psychiatrist who studied the use of non-ordinary states of consciousness in therapy.

During a Holotropic Breathwork session, participants lie down and breathe deeply and rapidly for an extended period of time while listening to music that is specifically designed to induce altered states of consciousness. This process can bring up a range of emotions and experiences, including physical sensations, memories, and insights.

The theory behind Holotropic Breathwork is that these altered states of consciousness can help individuals access and heal unresolved psychological and emotional issues, as well as provide a greater sense of self-awareness and spiritual connection. While some people have reported transformative experiences through Holotropic Breathwork, it is important to note that this approach is not suitable for everyone and should only be undertaken with the guidance of a trained facilitator.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Holding therapy?

Holding therapy is a controversial form of therapy that involves the physical restraint of a person, typically a child, by a therapist or caregiver. The aim of holding therapy is to create a strong bond between the therapist and the child and to help the child work through past traumatic experiences or emotional issues.

During holding therapy sessions, the child is held tightly by the therapist, often in a prone position, for an extended period of time. The therapist may also use verbal reassurances or soothing techniques to help the child relax and feel safe.

However, there is significant controversy surrounding the use of holding therapy, as it has been associated with physical harm and emotional trauma for the child. Critics argue that the therapy is invasive, aggressive, and potentially dangerous, and that there is little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.

As a result, holding therapy is not widely practiced or endorsed by mainstream mental health professionals, and alternative forms of therapy, such as talk therapy or play therapy, are often recommended instead

Shervan K Shahhian.

What is Humanistic psychology?

Humanistic psychology is a psychological perspective that emphasizes the individual’s subjective experience and their capacity for self-determination and growth. It emerged as a reaction to the dominant behaviorist and psychoanalytic schools of thought in psychology in the mid-twentieth century.

Humanistic psychology focuses on the uniqueness of the individual, and the importance of subjective experiences such as personal growth, self-awareness, and self-actualization. It emphasizes the value of understanding and accepting individuals for who they are, rather than trying to fit them into preconceived categories or diagnostic labels.

Some key figures in the development of humanistic psychology include Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, Rollo May, and Erich Fromm. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is one of the most well-known models of humanistic psychology, and Rogers’ person-centered therapy is a widely used therapeutic approach based on humanistic principles.

Overall, humanistic psychology is concerned with understanding the whole person, including their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and experiences, and helping individuals to achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Human givens? Human givens is a holistic approach to understanding human nature, developed by psychotherapist Joe Griffin and educator Ivan Tyrrell. The approach emphasizes the innate needs and resources that all humans possess and seeks to help individuals access and utilize these resources to improve their well-being. The term “human givens” refers to the universal needs that all humans have, such as the need for security, connection, meaning, and a sense of control over one’s life. These needs are seen as “givens” because they are intrinsic to our biology and psychology, and meeting these needs is essential for good mental health and emotional well-being. The Human Givens approach draws from a range of disciplines, including neuroscience, psychology, evolutionary biology, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present, working collaboratively with clients, and utilizing a range of evidence-based techniques to help individuals overcome emotional and psychological difficulties. Some common techniques used in Human Givens therapy include guided imagery, relaxation techniques, cognitive restructuring, and behavioral activation. The approach has been used effectively to treat a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship problems. Shervan K Shahhian

What is Hypnotherapy? Hypnotherapy is a type of therapy that utilizes hypnosis as a tool to help individuals make positive changes in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Hypnosis is a state of heightened focus and suggestibility, during which the individual is more receptive to positive suggestions and can access deeper parts of their mind. During a hypnotherapy session, the hypnotherapist will guide the individual into a hypnotic state through relaxation techniques, guided imagery, and other methods. Once the individual is in a hypnotic state, the hypnotherapist will provide suggestions for positive changes, such as reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem, or breaking a bad habit. Hypnotherapy can be used to address a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, phobias, insomnia, and addiction. It is typically considered a complementary therapy and is often used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as talk therapy or medication. It is important to note that hypnotherapy is not a form of mind control and the individual always remains in control of their thoughts and actions during a session. The hypnotherapist is simply a guide, helping the individual to access their inner resources and make positive changes in their life. Sheravan K Shahhian

What is Imago therapy? Imago therapy is a type of couples therapy that aims to help partners understand and heal their emotional wounds and develop a deeper, more fulfilling relationship. The therapy was developed by Harville Hendrix and his wife, Helen LaKelly Hunt, in the 1980s. The central idea behind Imago therapy is that we all have unresolved issues and wounds from our childhood that affect our adult relationships. The therapy helps couples identify and address these issues by teaching them to communicate more effectively, empathize with each other’s emotions, and become more attuned to each other’s needs. Imago therapy also involves a technique called “mirroring,” in which partners take turns reflecting back what the other person is saying to them. This helps to promote active listening and a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives. The ultimate goal of Imago therapy is to help couples move beyond their individual emotional baggage and create a more loving and supportive partnership.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Immersion therapy? Immersion therapy, also known as exposure therapy or prolonged exposure therapy, is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy used to treat anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. The goal of immersion therapy is to help individuals overcome their fears and anxieties by gradually exposing them to the situations, objects, or memories that trigger their anxiety. Through repeated exposure, individuals learn to tolerate and manage their anxiety symptoms and eventually experience a reduction in their overall anxiety levels. Immersion therapy can take many forms, depending on the specific anxiety or phobia being treated. For example, someone with a fear of flying may undergo a series of exposure sessions that gradually expose them to the airport, the airplane, and eventually takeoff and landing. Similarly, someone with PTSD may work with a therapist to gradually confront and process traumatic memories. It’s important to note that immersion therapy should always be conducted under the guidance of a qualified mental health professional, as it can be emotionally challenging and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Inner Relationship Focusing? Inner Relationship Focusing (IRF) is a therapeutic approach that combines the principles of Focusing with the theory of Internal Family Systems (IFS). It was developed by Ann Weiser Cornell and Barbara McGavin in the 1990s. At its core, IRF involves exploring one’s inner experience, which is often accompanied by bodily sensations, and developing a compassionate relationship with oneself. The goal of IRF is to help individuals become more aware of their emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations, and to cultivate a sense of curiosity, acceptance, and non-judgment towards themselves. In IRF, individuals are encouraged to listen to the different parts of themselves, each with its own unique perspective and voice, and to engage in a dialogue with these parts. By doing so, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their inner experience and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion. IRF can be used as a stand-alone therapeutic approach or as a complement to other therapeutic modalities. It has been used to help individuals with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. Shervan K Shahhian

What is Insight-oriented psychotherapy?

Insight-oriented psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy that aims to help people gain a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This type of therapy is based on the belief that insight into the underlying causes of psychological issues can lead to lasting change.

During insight-oriented psychotherapy, the therapist helps the client explore their past experiences, emotions, and patterns of behavior in order to identify the root causes of their current struggles. The therapist may use various techniques, such as free association, dream analysis, and interpretation of nonverbal cues, to help the client gain insight into their unconscious thoughts and motivations.

The goal of insight-oriented psychotherapy is not just to alleviate symptoms, but also to help the client develop a greater sense of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and emotional resilience. By gaining insight into their inner world, clients are often better able to make positive changes in their lives, develop healthier relationships, and cope more effectively with stress and difficult emotions.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Institutional psychotherapy? Institutional psychotherapy is a type of psychotherapy that originated in France in the 1950s and 1960s. It is an approach to therapy that takes into account the social and political context in which mental health issues arise. Institutional psychotherapy focuses on the therapeutic relationship between patients and staff, and the therapeutic community that forms within a psychiatric institution. Institutional psychotherapy views psychiatric hospitals and institutions as places where individuals are subjected to dehumanizing treatment and deprived of their autonomy. It seeks to transform psychiatric institutions into places where patients can live in a more humane and supportive environment, with opportunities for social interaction and meaningful activities. Institutional psychotherapy is based on the principles of psychoanalysis, existentialism, and Marxism. It emphasizes the importance of group therapy and the therapeutic community, and encourages patients to participate in the decision-making process of the institution. Overall, institutional psychotherapy seeks to create a more democratic and egalitarian environment in psychiatric institutions, with a focus on improving the well-being of patients and staff alike.

Shervan K Shahhian