Revisiting Holistic Interventions in Substance Abuse Treatment

Abstract

Holism is regarded as an effective means of alternative treatment, and there has been an increase in the number of innovative holistic treatment interventions in diverse fields of practice. Holistic practices in substance abuse treatment programs encompass therapies such as expressive therapy, art therapy, spiritual, or religious interventions; osteopathic treatment; acupuncture; and more. Although there is limited research on the effectiveness and use of holism in the field of substance abuse, there is consistent evidence of its success in other areas of treatment or counseling. A holistic perspective explains the necessity of treating all aspects of the self to improve success in treatment and altered lifestyles. A review of the benefits and types of holistic interventions in substance abuse treatment is provided, along with suggestions for future research.

Keywords::

• Expressive therapy
• holism
• substance abuse treatment
• art therapy
• dance therapy
• osteopathic treatment
• spirituality