Exploring Integrative Holotropic Therapies (IHTs)

Dr. Stanislav Grof, M.D., coined the term “holotropic,” combining the Greek words “holos” (whole) and “trepein” (toward), and meaning “toward wholeness.” It references a subset of properly facilitated expanded states of consciousness that activate psychological healing and even spiritual transformation. Often, this manner of self-healing arises with deeply felt experiences of interconnectedness.

Integrative Holotropic Therapies, or IHTs, describe carefully constructed therapies, including properly conducted psychedelic medicine, that achieve holotropic states of consciousness. The experiences arising from these states is what sets IHTs apart from traditional psychiatric and psychological treatments.

IHTs involve a multidisciplinary integrative approach to healing and are complementary to one another and to traditional approaches like psychotherapy. They can include:

• Psychedelic medicine

• Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy

• Breathwork such as Holotropic Breathwork™

• Sound healing

• Meditation

The Psykia Institute funds research into the efficacy, safety, and phenomenology of IHTs, including accessible substance-free approaches such as Holotropic Breathwork™.

The Psykia Institute provides workshops that provide immediate experience of substance-free IHTs, while teaching safe practices.