Holistic Counseling - Introducing "The Vis Dialogue"

This pioneering book by a naturopathic doctor and homeopath has been justly acclaimed by specialists in the field as a breakthrough in uniting the fields of mind-body medicine and psychology by helping identify the root cause of disease. It introduces the 'VIS' dialogue as a new counselling technique where VIS refers to the healing power of nature (vis medicatrix naturae) within a multidimensional understanding of the human being with four principal levels of soul, mind, emotions and body. The first part introduces the philosophical background in terms of seven principles, including the need for physicians to heal themselves. These principles then form a checklist to compare allopathic, systems and holistic approaches when it becomes clear that the allopathic approach is not addressed at healing the whole person as an individual, does not address the fundamental cause of disease and does not act in cooperation with the healing power of nature; it is, however, essential in certain well-defined circumstances.

The author shows how false beliefs can lie at the root of physical conditions, and provides detailed guidance on techniques, including the importance of using non-directed questions, following the stream and going deeper into the rabbit hole until the cause is discovered – at this point of recognition, the patient can make a choice to change; in this context the attitude of the practitioner is also critical. There are complete lists of incisive and specific questions as well as advice on overcoming obstacles and closing questions. The process will often involve a reorientation and redefinition of the patient's identity. The book will be fruitful reading especially for mind-body practitioners and therapists who will find the structuring and sequence of questions for sessions very helpful.