From Naturopathy to Motherhood and Counselling: Navigating Personal and Professional Journeys in Holistic Self-Care
摘要
This chapter provides an autoethnographic reflection on my journey from naturopathy to counselling, emphasising the importance of holistic self-care. Drawing from personal and professional experiences, I explore how naturopathy laid the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This understanding was deepened by personal milestones, such as becoming a mother and the grief of losing a child. These experiences highlighted the necessity of integrating holistic self-care practices—such as herbal remedies, mindfulness, exercise, and psychological support—into both personal life and professional practice. The chapter discusses how these experiences shaped my identity as a counsellor and influenced my approach to mental health care, particularly the benefits of collaborative, multidisciplinary methods. Additionally, it emphasises the critical role of self-care for therapists, highlighting that maintaining holistic practices is essential for personal resilience and professional effectiveness. The chapter concludes by advocating for a collaborative approach to mental health, where therapists work alongside allied health professionals to provide comprehensive care for clients.