Journal of Mental Health Counseling
October 1, 2020
Russ Curtis, Lisen C. Roberts, Elizabeth Graves et al.
28 citations
Psychedelics such as ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin have a long history of use for mental health and addiction, but were classified as having no medical value by the FDA after misuse and flawed trials in the mid-20th century. Recent research indicates that psychedelic-assisted therapy can significantly reduce depression and suicidal ideation in treatment-resistant clients and may help with other mental health and addiction issues. Effective therapy requires mental health counseling before, during, and after treatment. This manuscript shares the latest research and discusses how mental health counselors can contribute to this reemerging therapeutic trend.
Journal of Mental Health Counseling
January 1, 2020
Babatunde Aideyan, Gina Martin, Eric T. Beeson
19 citations
Breathwork techniques are practical interventions that clinical mental health counselors can use to integrate physiological sensitivities into treatment through the relaxation response. Three broad categories are identified: deep relaxation breathing, mindfulness breathwork, and yogic breathing, each with distinct respiratory patterns and applications. Research findings indicate that breathwork may be efficacious for treating anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder. However, more research is needed to evaluate its utility for a wider range of mental illness. Counselors are encouraged to incorporate breathwork techniques but must appraise each technique individually.
Journal of Mental Health Counseling
July 1, 2012
Monica Leppma
19 citations
Loving-kindness meditation (LKM) builds caring and connection by combining present-moment awareness with directing kind feelings toward oneself and others. It enhances attention, acceptance, and self-regulation while emphasizing self-care and interconnectedness. The article argues that LKM is well-suited for counseling to help clients develop healthier relationships with themselves and others.
Journal of Mental Health Counseling
April 1, 2025
Alwin E. Wagener, J. Scott Young
Imagery rehearsal therapy (IRT) is a research-supported behavioral intervention that reduces the frequency and severity of nightmares. It also reduces negative mental health symptoms, particularly those associated with posttraumatic stress disorder. IRT is straightforward for mental health counselors to facilitate, and the steps for implementing it are described, along with strategies to ensure cultural competence and effectiveness in delivery. Knowledge of how to implement IRT gives counselors the ability to directly support clients in addressing the disturbing experience of nightmares.
Journal of Mental Health Counseling
July 1, 2014
Tinakon Wongpakaran, Kelly J. Elsegood, Nahathai Wongpakaran et al.
A case example demonstrates how Control-Mastery Theory and Jungian dream theory were combined to interpret the dreams of a Thai woman and treat her nightmare disorder. Therapy helped the client identify and challenge unconscious beliefs that had kept her from pursuing romantic relationships and life goals. Dream interpretation served as a psychotherapeutic tool, and cultural context was essential for understanding the client's dreams and waking-life beliefs, feelings, and behaviors. The case's quality and rigor were strengthened by the Messer (2007) Pragmatic Case method.