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.
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.
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.