Holism in Mental Health Practice

Abstract

ABSTRACT In the past decade, holistic medicine has rapidly emerged as a visible and controversial force in American medicine. Because the practice of medicine is influenced by technology and its imperatives toward specialization, it has become fertile ground for holistic practice. Many professionals, including occupational therapists, claim to be practitioners of holistic health. There is evidence in the literature of the importance of viewing individuals as integrated organisms in which the elements of mind, body, spirit, emotions, and environment are interrelated. Such a belief was one of die early premises on which the occupational therapy profession was founded. A therapist can be specialized and still treat the whole patient by integrating knowledge and care to meet the entire spectrum of patient needs. An occupational therapist practicing in the field of mental health assesses and treats all areas, including the sensory, motor and cognitive functions, and environmental factors. This paper discusses the historical roots of holism, its general definitions, the fundamental holistic-care philosophy, and the need to define holism in occupational therapy mental health practice. A model of practice, applying holistic principles, is presented through the use of a case illustration.