Originally posted by Bell
I KNEW it was going to be the first 2 - and in that order...
but I didn't know about the Spirituality or the Holistics...
(interesting...)
thanks for sharing...
what sorts of things do you study in holistics ??
Well Holistics is, actually, a broad field. For my studies I started with the spiritual/metaphysical aspects, then went into the medical/homeopathic methods (herbal supplements, old fashion remedies, etc). For my Masters I worked in the spirtual pschology of illness and healing. This also included alternative healing methods like biorythmics, hypnosis, light therapies, massage, sensory therapies (audio, visual and aroma), etc.
There are many other aspects that fall under Holistics, as well. Including macrobiotics, healing methods of Edgar Casey, herbal supplement therapies, etc. While I like studying these methods it is the psychological and spiritual therapies that I enjoy working in. In essence, my work is about getting a person to not only trust in the treatment but trust in their mind and in their soul that they will heal, be happy, etc.
how long does it take to complete the requirements for a
PhD in Holistic Psychology ??
Well I did an excellerate Bachelor of Science degree - I had completed all of my core requirements (english, history and mathematics) outside of this study and only needed to work on my specialty courses which took me a year and a half. My Masters took me two years. I've been working on and off of my PhD thesis for a year and a half - I should be in the second editing phase at this point but I barely finished my first draft in time. I'm looking at another year and a half for this (most likely)
where would one find employment with a degree like that ??
would it all be in private practice - or do hospitals
and such have Holistic Medicine Departments ??
Typically this would be a private practice or a work in a holistic center. More and more are springing up these days. Since Holistics is quickly becoming a major part of the new medical training, I could teach or work within a medical practice.
However, the AMA has many/most of the medical laws on their side and practicing on my own under the title Holistics can mean trouble. While holistics are being taught in medical schools the American Medical Assoc refuses to see some Holistic methods as viable lines of medicine/psychology - some have gone as far as to liken Holistic practioners to witches. So when I do finish my degree work, and if I choose to work in the field I will try to find work within a medical practice or holistic medical center under an MD.
Have you personally seen or known of an example of where
it has helped someone - or made a difference ??
Absolutely. I for one am an example, although poor one. A few years ago I was ill and I used all of my training in combination with medical science to make sure I got better. On the other side I am also prone to the psychology or mindset of not thinking postive. When money isn't coming in, the bills pile up and I'm working non-stop with little time outside of the house I will find my health lacking. If I catch a cold it can take weeks for me to get through it.
As for others, I've actively participated in Chemo sessions with patients at the local hospital. I would go into the chemo room (where everyone was hooked up) and work the room. Make the children laugh, help the older women around and let them flirt (or I would flirt with them), talk about prayer with some of the men... I would try to make the session as bright as possible. The doctors appreciated it and the nurses loved it, because there was less crying, less vomiting, fewer fevers, increased responses to treatment etc etc etc. It was noticeable when I wasn't there because the nurses would tell me so. That best sums up what my degrees are all about, actually. Changing the mindset of patients from the fear and darkness to something lighter.
- - - I know that in many cases it does help...
if someone asked you what your definition was of
Holistics - what would your answer be ??
My definition of holistics differs from most. My definition is working science, nature, psychology and spirtuality together in order to treat the entire person - body mind and soul.
I find it fascinating... I'm so pleased to have found
someone that knows about this stuff...
~Bell
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