Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit Social Work An Empirically Based Approach to Assessment and Treatment

This breakthrough work presents an integrative therapeutic approach that ties Eastern philosophy and practical techniques to Western forms of therapy in order to create effective, positive, and transformative changes in individuals and families. Integrative therapy focuses on the mind-body-spirit relationship, recognizes spirituality as a fundamental domain of human existence, acknowledges and utilizes the power of the mind as well as the body, and reaches beyond self-actualization or symptom reduction to broaden a perception of self that connects individuals to a larger sense of oneself and to the community. As interest in non-Western curative techniques continues to grow among Americans, Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit Social Work is the first book that connects Western therapeutic techniques with Eastern philosophy and practices, while also providing a comprehensive and pragmatic practice framework for social work, psychology, counseling, and nursing professionals. The authors expertly and innovatively provide a pragmatic, step-by-step description of assessment and treatment techniques that employ an integrative, holistic perspective. Beginning by establishing the conceptual framework of integrative body-mind-spirit social work, they go on to expound a thorough step-by-step description of assessment and treatment techniques that utilize integrative and holistic perspectives. Several case studies are explored in order to provide empirical evidence that integrative body-mind-spirit social work is indeed a practical therapeutic approach in bringing about tangible changes in clients. The authors also explore ethical issues and tips for learning Integrative Body-Mind-Spirit social work. Professionals in social work, psychology, counseling, and nursing, as well as graduate students in courses on integral, alternative, or complementary clinical practice will find this to be a much-needed resource that complements the growing interest in spiritual and integrative approaches to traditional Western psychotherapy.

Mo Yee Lee is Professor at College of Social Work, The Ohio State University. She has a dual focus in her clinical practice and scholarly work that includes clinical practice and research using a solution-focused/strengths perspective and cross-cultural clinical practice with individuals and families. Siu-man Ng is Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work and Social Administration & Associate Director, Centre on Behavioral Health, The University of Hong Kong. Dr. Ng's research focus is the application of traditional Chinese medicine and philosophies in mental health practice. His key research areas are operationalizing Chinese medicine 'stagnation syndrome' concept as a psychological construct, illness coping strategies among irritable bowel syndrome patients, and the relations between work burnout and spirituality. Pamela Leung is Assistant Professor, Department of Social Work and Social Administration. Dr. Leung is an experienced social worker and supervisor in health and clinical social work. Her areas of interest are integrative body-mind-spirit approach, psychosocial oncology, healthcare social work and meaning-focused intervention. She is also a trainer of the Body-mind-spirit approach, locally and internationally. Cecila L.W. Chan is Professor, Department of Social Work and Social Administration; & Director, Centre on Behavioral Health, Associate Director, HKJC Centre for Suicide Research and Prevention The University of Hong Kong. Professor Chan publishes widely in health, practice research, empowerment, women, cancer, bereavement and palliative care. She used a strength-oriented approach in her work of empowerment of traumatized individuals. Her focus is on growth and transformation through pain.