Recognition of mind and body interactions in New Zealand counselling education and practice

Abstract

Using mixed-method surveys and case study interviews, thirty emerging and experienced counsellors were queried on the mind–body interactions of body-oriented psychotherapies, nutrition, and physiological conditions relative to counselling education and practice. Participating counsellors did not consider their counselling education covered these areas well, particularly in body- oriented psychotherapies and nutrition with only 30% and 20% of participants respectively affirmative. Counsellors reported mixed confidence in knowledge and referral competency around nutritional and physiological health interactions with mental wellbeing. Counsellors generally (97%) did not consider body-oriented psychotherapies alternative and 100% indicated they would consider future professional development in this area. The Māori health model Te Whare Tapa

Whā is endorsed in Aotearoa New Zealand counselling education. This holistic wellbeing model recognises mind–body interactions. However, this research indicates inconsistent and often negligible mind–body interaction knowledge is taught in Aotearoa New Zealand counselling education.