In the bustling cityscape of therapeutic practices, there are a few luminaries who stand out for their profound insights, compassionate approach, and unwavering dedication to healing. Among them is Edith Caballero, a seasoned therapist, clinical supervisor, and consultant whose work has touched the lives of many. With a career spanning decades, Edith has amassed a wealth of experience and wisdom, becoming a guiding light for both clients and colleagues in the field of mental health. In this exclusive Mystic Mag‘s interview, we delve into the depths of Edith’s expertise, exploring her journey, philosophy, and the transformative power of therapy.
How has your diverse background in holistic healing, trauma-informed yoga, and addiction treatment influenced your approach to helping individuals on their wellness journeys?
What’s been crucial for me to learn in holistic healing, trauma-informed yoga, and addiction recovery is that we always start where the person is. We don’t jump ahead five steps or push them five steps back. We meet them exactly where they are and provide whatever they need from us—whether it’s resources, goals, or support. This approach means meeting them exactly where they’re at, whether it’s taking addiction recovery one step, one day, or one second at a time, or honoring the body and self in yoga practice every day.
In my line of work, it’s essential to always approach it with the understanding of meeting the person where they are. For instance, if a client doesn’t want to delve into traumatic history on a particular day, I must honor that and prioritize their needs for that day. Our work revolves around prioritizing what the client feels is best for themselves because they are the experts on their own well-being.
Integrating yoga with addiction treatment requires a deep understanding and integration of both practices.
Integrating yoga with addiction treatment requires a nuanced understanding. How do you navigate this intersection, and what strategies have you found most effective in supporting individuals in recovery?
It’s fascinating how my understanding and practice of yoga intertwine seamlessly with addiction recovery. When I engage with clients in recovery or seeking addiction treatment, they immediately grasp the importance of listening to their bodies and adopting a more somatic approach. They understand the significance of conducting a body scan to identify areas of tension and discomfort, as they’ve often experienced these sensations throughout their lives.
Integrating yoga into their recovery journey serves as a powerful awakening. However, for some, it can also be a daunting experience. Many have spent years avoiding their bodies and themselves, so embracing yoga means confronting those fears. As I mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to meet clients where they are and approach their journey with curiosity rather than pressure.
I always emphasize that everything we do is optional and an invitation rather than an obligation. Language plays a significant role in our interactions with clients, and I strive to maintain a compassionate and non-judgmental stance throughout the process. Values such as radical compassion, honoring each individual’s journey, and fostering a sense of community are integral to effective support in recovery.
In addition to trauma-informed yoga, I incorporate techniques like parts work and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy into my sessions with clients. However, the emphasis on community remains paramount. Recovery thrives in the community, and I encourage clients to explore various support programs, whether it’s a traditional 12-step program or alternative options that better suit their needs.
Ultimately, the journey of addiction recovery is multifaceted, and my role is to provide comprehensive support tailored to each individual’s unique path.
What type of services do you offer?
My clients constitute a unique population, primarily consisting of therapists and social workers who have experienced profound challenges in their lives. Many of them were driven to pursue careers in social work or mental health due to their own lived experiences. This specific demographic also includes healing professionals and practitioners who assist others in their journeys.
The services I offer cater specifically to this population. These include therapy, trauma therapy, professional consultation, work-related supervision, and mentoring. Additionally, I provide coaching sessions for individuals navigating career decisions, whether it’s opening their own practice or establishing themselves as therapists or social workers. I facilitate a monthly peer support group, offering a confidential space for therapists and social workers to discuss both personal and professional aspects of their lives. Moreover, I offer free supervision sessions for those seeking feedback on their cases.
As helpers, it’s easy for us to become absorbed in supporting others and neglecting our own needs. It’s essential for therapists, healers, and helping professionals to prioritize self-care. Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it’s highly individualized. While yoga may be beneficial for some, others may find solace in activities such as dancing, screaming, or hiking. It’s about discovering what works best for each individual and acknowledging that there’s no universal solution for everyone.
Nutrition and functional medicine play a role in mental health. How do you integrate dietary considerations into your holistic approach to wellness, particularly in the context of addiction recovery and trauma therapy?
I studied nutrition and functional medicine, and I gained a comprehensive understanding within my capacity as a therapist. However, when it comes to dietary considerations or recommendations, I refrain from giving any. Instead, I always make referrals to a network of nutritionists whom I trust. My focus lies in understanding my clients’ eating habits, dietary needs, and any mental health or medical conditions that may influence or exacerbate them. This is a crucial aspect of our initial assessment.
Throughout our therapy sessions, we delve into topics such as binging, purging, restrictive eating, and other patterns that may emerge. If any of these issues arise, I ensure that appropriate referrals are made to specialists who can provide the necessary support. It’s essential for me to stay within my scope of expertise and refer individuals to professionals who are better equipped to address their specific needs.
In the context of addiction recovery and trauma therapy, it’s vital to address potential issues related to food. Many individuals in recovery or those who have experienced trauma may have an unhealthy relationship with food, which can manifest in various ways such as binge eating, purging, or excessive exercise. In such cases, I emphasize the importance of seeking support from eating disorder specialists or nutritionists. My role is to have a foundational understanding of these issues to recognize when referrals are necessary.
With your extensive background, how do you advocate for a more integrative approach to mental health and wellness within traditional treatment settings?
Nowadays, research is increasingly demonstrating the efficacy of holistic approaches such as yoga, dancing, drumming, and walking outdoors barefoot. These services are gradually gaining mainstream recognition, highlighting their integral role in individuals’ recovery and healing processes. It’s becoming easier to engage in conversations about yoga and its transformative power, although some individuals may still harbor reservations.
In my practice, I prioritize meeting clients where they are, respecting their beliefs and preferences. Regardless of whether a client is open to yoga or energy healing, I ensure that their journey begins from a place of acceptance and understanding. Clients inherently know what they need, and by providing them with a space free from judgment and filled with trust, they can intuitively navigate their path towards healing.
Traditional treatment settings are increasingly acknowledging the value of holistic approaches like sound healing. Through workshops and discussions, I advocate for these methods, integrating them into my sessions and sharing relevant research findings. By promoting dialogue and offering information, we create opportunities for individuals to explore holistic approaches at their own pace, while respecting their unique journeys and choices.
