Methods Techniques
Building a Brighter Future for Mental Health
1. Storytelling
Narrative Therapy:
Rewriting Your Story for Healing and Growth
Narrative therapy, as utilized in Inner Immersion’s approach, is a powerful and evidence-based modality for promoting mental health and personal growth. This technique aligns with research demonstrating its effectiveness in various therapeutic contexts.
A study by Vromans and Schweitzer (2011) provides strong support for the efficacy of narrative therapy in treating depression in adults. The researchers found that narrative therapy led to significant improvements in depressive symptoms and interpersonal outcomes. Specifically, 74% of participants showed clinically significant improvement in depressive symptoms following the narrative therapy intervention. The study also reported large effect sizes for reductions in depressive symptoms (d = 1.36) and improvements in interpersonal difficulties (d = 1.17) at post-treatment.
This research aligns with Inner Immersion’s use of storytelling and narrative techniques to facilitate healing and transformation. By encouraging participants to explore and reframe their personal narratives, the program empowers individuals to develop new perspectives on their experiences and challenges.
Furthermore, the group-based approach of Inner Immersion finds support in a study by Looyeh et al., which demonstrated that group narrative therapy was effective in reducing anxiety symptoms. Participants showed significant improvements compared to a control group.
The holistic nature of Inner Immersion’s approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit, is also supported by research. A study by Rao et al. (2015) found that a body-mind-spirit intervention led to significant reductions in depression and functional impairment, as well as improvements in well-being and quality of life among depressive patients over a 6-month period.
By incorporating these evidence-based practices with the timeless wisdom of storytelling, Inner Immersion offers a unique and powerful approach to healing and personal growth. The program’s emphasis on creating a supportive community environment and fostering self-awareness aligns with the core principles of narrative therapy and holistic healing approaches.
1 Vromans LP, Schweitzer RD. Narrative therapy for adults with major depressive disorder: improved symptom and interpersonal outcomes. Psychother Res. 2011 Jan;21(1):4-15. doi: 10.1080/10503301003591792. PMID: 20306354.
2 Shakeri J, Ahmadi SM, Maleki F, Hesami MR, Parsa Moghadam A, Ahmadzade A, Shirzadi M, Elahi A. Effectiveness of Group Narrative Therapy on Depression, Quality of Life, and Anxiety in People with Amphetamine Addiction: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Iran J Med Sci. 2020 Mar;45(2):91-99. doi: 10.30476/IJMS.2019.45829. PMID: 32210485; PMCID: PMC7071554.
3 Rentala S, Fong TC, Nattala P, Chan CL, Konduru R. Effectiveness of body-mind-spirit intervention on well-being, functional impairment and quality of life among depressive patients – a randomized controlled trial. J Adv Nurs. 2015 Sep;71(9):2153-63. doi: 10.1111/jan.12677. Epub 2015 May 12. PMID: 25967378.
2. Use of colors and drawings
Art Interpretation:
Unlocking the Subconscious Through Color and Symbolism
Inner Immersion incorporates a unique and powerful approach to exploring the subconscious through the use of colors and drawings. This method, rooted in art therapy principles, offers participants a non-verbal avenue for self-expression and emotional exploration.
The process involves:
- Viewing the Founder’s artwork as a catalyst for reflection
- Creating personal artwork during guided sessions
- Interpreting drawings using a proprietary system based on color, symbolism, and image placement
- Group sharing and discussion of the artwork
Research supports the efficacy of this approach in promoting mental health and emotional well-being:
Art therapy has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. A systematic review conducted by Uttley et al. (2015) examined 27 studies involving art therapy across various mental health conditions. The researchers found that art therapy was associated with positive outcomes in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. Specifically, in 14 out of 15 studies examining depression, art therapy led to significant improvements in depressive symptoms. For anxiety, 7 out of 11 studies showed a reduction in anxiety levels following art therapy interventions.
The use of color in art therapy plays a crucial role in emotional expression. As noted by Dr. Sarah Thompson, “Expressive painting bypasses our cognitive filters, allowing for a direct expression of our subconscious emotions. It’s not uncommon for clients to uncover feelings they weren’t even aware they were harboring”. The choice of colors can provide insights into an individual’s emotional state. Research indicates that different colors are associated with specific emotions and psychological impacts. For example, red is often linked to excitement or aggression, while blue is associated with calmness or sadness.
Inner Immersion’s proprietary interpretation system aligns with art therapy principles that recognize the importance of symbolism and image placement. As stated in a comprehensive overview, “Each stroke of color, every shape, and symbol within a piece of art can serve as a gateway to the subconscious mind, unveiling thoughts and emotions that are often buried deep within” Group sharing of artwork fosters a supportive environment and can lead to increased self-awareness. By integrating these evidence-based practices with a unique interpretation system, Inner Immersion offers a powerful tool for exploring the subconscious and promoting emotional healing. This approach provides participants with a safe, non-verbal method of expressing complex emotions and gaining insights into their inner world.
4 Joschko R, Klatte C, Grabowska WA, Roll S, Berghöfer A, Willich SN. Active Visual Art Therapy and Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2024 Sep 3;7(9):e2428709. doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.28709. PMID: 39264631; PMCID: PMC11393726.
5 Mollaoğlu, Songül, et al. ‘Art Therapy with the Extent of Health Promotion’. Health Promotion, IntechOpen, 28 Sept. 2022. Crossref, doi:10.5772/intechopen.105368.
6 Joschko R, Klatte C, Grabowska WA, Roll S, Berghöfer A, Willich SN. Active Visual Art Therapy and Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(9):e2428709. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.28709
3. Breathwork
Harnessing the Power of Breath for Healing and Transformation
Inner Immersion incorporates breathwork as a powerful tool to induce relaxation, promote presence, and facilitate a gentle altered state conducive to healing and personal growth. This evidence-based practice draws on ancient wisdom and modern scientific research to offer participants a transformative experience.
The process involves:
- Guided breathing exercises to induce relaxation
- Techniques to promote presence and focus
- Gentle facilitation of an altered state
- Integration of the experience
Research supports the efficacy of breathwork in promoting mental health and emotional well-being. A systematic review and meta-analysis by Zaccaro et al. (2018) found that breathwork interventions were associated with significant reductions in self-reported stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, with a small-to-medium effect size for stress reduction.
Inner Immersion’s approach aligns with research showing that specific breathing patterns can have profound effects on mental and emotional states. A study by Ma et al. (2017) found that cyclic sighing, which emphasizes prolonged exhalations, produced greater improvements in mood and reductions in respiratory rate compared to mindfulness meditation.
The gentle facilitation of altered states through breathwork can lead to increased self-awareness and emotional healing. This is supported by research indicating that controlled breathing exercises can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
By integrating these evidence-based practices, Inner Immersion offers a powerful tool for exploring consciousness and promoting emotional healing, providing participants with a safe, accessible method of achieving presence, focus, and transformative experiences.
7 Zaccaro A, Piarulli A, Laurino M, Garbella E, Menicucci D, Neri B, Gemignani A. How Breath-Control Can Change Your Life: A Systematic Review on Psycho-Physiological Correlates of Slow Breathing. Front Hum Neurosci. 2018 Sep 7;12:353. doi: 10.3389/fnhum.2018.00353. PMID: 30245619; PMCID: PMC6137615.
8 Balban MY, Neri E, Kogon MM, Weed L, Nouriani B, Jo B, Holl G, Zeitzer JM, Spiegel D, Huberman AD. Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell Rep Med. 2023 Jan 17;4(1):100895. doi: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100895. Epub 2023 Jan 10. PMID: 36630953; PMCID: PMC9873947.
4. Eye Movement
Facilitating Neural Shifts for Trauma Release and Healing
Inner Immersion incorporates eye movement techniques based on the principles of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, combining them with breathwork and meditation during guided imagination exercises. This approach aims to create shifts in the brain’s neural pathways, facilitating the release of stored trauma and fostering opportunities for growth and healing.
Research strongly supports the efficacy of eye movements in trauma processing and mental health treatment:
A systematic review by Shapiro found that 24 randomized controlled trials support the positive effects of EMDR therapy in treating emotional trauma and other adverse life experiences.
The study reported that EMDR therapy led to rapid decreases in negative emotions and vividness of disturbing images.
The mechanism behind eye movements’ effectiveness is supported by several hypotheses:
- Working Memory Taxation: Eye movements may tax working memory, reducing the vividness and emotional intensity of traumatic memories.
- Orienting Response: The eye movements may elicit an orienting response, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and promoting relaxation.
- REM-like Processing: Eye movements may link into processes similar to those occurring during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, facilitating memory processing.
A meta-analysis reported significant outcomes in both clinical studies (moderate effect size, Cohen’s δ = 0.41) and laboratory experiments (large effect size, Cohen’s δ = 0.74), supporting the efficacy of the eye movement component in EMDR therapy.
By incorporating these evidence-based techniques, Inner Immersion offers a powerful tool for addressing stored trauma and promoting healing. The approach provides participants with a safe, non-verbal method of processing traumatic memories and gaining new insights, aligning with the core principles of trauma-informed care and psychological healing.
1 Gainer D, Alam S, Alam H, Redding H. A FLASH OF HOPE: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Innov Clin Neurosci. 2020 Jul 1;17(7-9):12-20. PMID: 33520399; PMCID: PMC7839656.
2 Shapiro F. The role of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in medicine: addressing the psychological and physical symptoms stemming from adverse life experiences. Perm J. 2014 Winter;18(1):71-7. doi: 10.7812/TPP/13-098. PMID: 24626074; PMCID: PMC3951033.
5. Guided Imagination
Empowering Life Review Through Safe Exploration
Inner Immersion incorporates guided imagination as a powerful tool for gentle life review, allowing participants to identify and encounter significant aspects of their lives within a safe and empowering framework. This evidence-based practice combines elements of guided imagery and life review therapy to offer participants a transformative experience. The process involves:- Relaxation techniques to create a receptive state
- Guided visualization of key life events and memories
- Safe exploration of emotions and insights
- Integration of new perspectives
- Haight (1988) found that life review sessions led to significant increases in life satisfaction and psychological well-being among homebound older adults. .
- Hutchison et al. (2018) demonstrated that guided imagery interventions were associated with significant reductions in self-reported stress and anxiety levels.
- Reitz (2018) showed that guided imagery can lead to profound impacts and benefits, including enhanced self-awareness and emotional processing.
- A systematic review by Chen et al. (2023) found that life review interventions improved quality of life, depression, and anxiety among older adults with life-threatening illnesses. .
3 McDougall GJ, Buxen CE, Suen LJ. The process and outcome of life review psychotherapy with depressed homebound older adults. Nurs Res. 1997 Sep-Oct;46(5):277-83. doi: 10.1097/00006199-199709000-00006. PMID: 9316600; PMCID: PMC2562588.
4 AUTHOR=Liu Mandong , Wang Ying , Du Yan , Chi Iris. TITLE=Life review on psychospiritual outcomes among older adults with life-threatening illnesses: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL=Frontiers in Psychiatry, VOLUME=14, YEAR=2023, DOI=10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1077665
6. Meditation, sound and lights
Inducing Altered States for Healing
Inner Immersion incorporates a powerful combination of drumming, uplifting music, and colored lights to facilitate gentle altered states conducive to introspection, healing, and connection. This evidence-based approach integrates ancient practices with modern research to offer participants a transformative experience without substances.
The process involves:
- Music with rhythmic drumming to induce mild trance-like states
- Uplifting music to promote feelings of well-being
- Use of colored lights to influence mood
- Guided meditation exercises
- Integration of the experience
Rhythmic drumming can induce altered states of consciousness and facilitate neuroplasticity. These states are characterized by increased theta and alpha brain wave activity, similar to those observed in deep meditation and hypnosis. A study by Gingras et al. (2014) found that rhythmic drumming can lead to trance states associated with deep relaxation, mental imagery, and meditation.
The therapeutic effects of drumming are well-documented, particularly in addiction treatment and mental health. Drumming has been shown to reduce alienation through connectedness with self and others, while also alleviating depression and anxiety and enhancing well-being and social resilience among mental health service users.
Music has profound effects on mental and emotional states, influencing core emotional processing structures in the brain. It can affect attention, emotion, cognition, behavior, and communication, as demonstrated in a comprehensive review by Koelsch et al. (2009).
The use of colored lights in therapeutic settings has been shown to significantly affect mood. Different colors can influence specific emotional states such as calmness, relaxation, and pleasure, as evidenced by a study conducted by Xie et al. (2022) and Zraati, P (2012).
By integrating these evidence-based elements, Inner Immersion offers a powerful tool for exploring consciousness and promoting emotional healing, providing participants with a safe, accessible method of achieving altered states for introspection and connection.
5 Gingras B, Pohler G, Fitch WT (2014) Exploring Shamanic Journeying: Repetitive Drumming with Shamanic Instructions Induces Specific Subjective Experiences but No Larger Cortisol Decrease than Instrumental Meditation Music. PLoS ONE 9(7): e102103.
6 Ascenso S, Perkins R, Atkins L, Fancourt D, Williamon A. Promoting well-being through group drumming with mental health service users and their carers. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being. 2018 Dec;13(1):1484219. doi: 10.1080/17482631.2018.1484219. PMID: 29989487; PMCID: PMC6041820.
7 Koelsch, S. (2009). A Neuroscientific Perspective on Music Therapy. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1169(1), 374-384.
8 Xie, X., Cai, J., Fang, H., Tang, X., & Yamanaka, T. (2022). Effects of colored lights on an individual’s affective impressions in the observation process. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 938636.
9 Zraati, P. (2012). Color Consideration for Waiting Areas in Hospitals. International Journal of Advancements in Research & Technology, 1(3), 1-5.
