Mental health has become a focal point in today’s society with the increasing recognition of its importance. Historically, mental health issues were often stigmatized, leading many to suffer in silence.
The 2023 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) report states that 1 in 5 American adults experience mental illness each year, yet less than half receive treatment. This gap is partly due to the lack of accessible mental health services or the lack of practicing psychiatrists.
Seeing this need, clinical psychotherapist and trauma and addiction specialist Zahra Adloo, through her company, Zahra Adloo Therapy, offers a new approach to addressing mental health challenges, particularly substance abuse disorders, through the ancient, holistic practice of Ibogaine therapy.
The Need for New Methods
Traditional methods of mental health treatment often fail to address the multifaceted nature of mental health conditions. These conventional approaches typically focus on alleviating physical symptoms and managing visible behavioral issues through medication and standard talk therapy. While these methods can be effective in reducing symptoms and providing some level of relief, they frequently fail to delve deeper into the underlying causes of mental health disorders.
Adloo says, “Concentrating primarily on the physical and overtly observable aspects of conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders, traditional treatments can overlook the complex interplay of emotional, psychological, and spiritual factors.”
For Adloo, without addressing these deeper layers, traditional treatments may offer only temporary relief rather than fostering long-term healing and personal growth. This limitation underscores the need for more integrative approaches that consider the whole person, promoting comprehensive healing that encompasses mind, body, and spirit.
A Holistic Approach to the Multifaceted Mental Health Concern
The limitations of conventional treatments uncover the need for new solutions that address the full spectrum of mental health challenges. Zahra Adloo Therapy steps into this gap with its unique approach, integrating ancient practices of Ibogaine from Gabon, Africa, with modern psychotherapy techniques. Ibogaine, a naturally occurring psychoactive substance, is central to this treatment methodology.
Unlike typical treatments, which may focus on medication or talk therapy alone, Ibogaine therapy aims to heal the mind, body, and spirit. Adloo explains, “Ibogaine treatments offer a potential solution for individuals struggling with substance dependence or addiction by interrupting the cycle of physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms associated with drug or alcohol use.”
Ibogaine has also been reported to alleviate withdrawal symptoms commonly experienced during detoxification from addictive substances, manage cravings, relapse prevention, and psychological and spiritual healing. Adloo adds, “During Ibogaine therapy sessions, one can develop increased self-awareness, clarity, and a sense of connection to oneself and the world, supporting overall healing and transformation.”
“Ibogaine therapy allows individuals to explore and address underlying emotional trauma and psychological issues,” Adloo explains. “This leads to long-term recovery and personal growth, often not achieved with conventional treatments.”
Solving Concerns for Better Outcomes
Zahra Adloo Therapy implements the science of Ibogaine and embodies a compassionate and individualized approach to mental health treatment. Adloo recognizes that Ibogaine therapy, while rooted in ancient practices, is less known and sometimes met with skepticism in the US.
She addresses these concerns with respect and patience, Guiding each client through their healing journey. Adloo ensures that during the client’s eight integration sessions — four before and four after the Ibogaine treatment — they are well-informed about the therapy, its potential benefits, and any risks involved, building trust and safety.
Adloo’s approach also addresses the six wellness pillars — mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, relational, and occupational. This transparency and education help clients feel supported and understood, making integrating Ibogaine therapy a collaborative, empowering, and less daunting experience.
It is also part of Adloo’s approach to acknowledge that the healing process is not linear and that each client has unique needs and requires tailored interventions. Adloo’s method involves comprehensive pre- and post-treatment integration sessions designed to fully understand the client’s condition and be fully aware of any specific emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of their experiences.
A Focus on Customer Satisfaction
Zahra Adloo Therapy offers a holistic and flexible approach that adapts to the varying needs of its clients, ensuring that each person receives the care and support necessary for their unique recovery journey.
Adloo mentions, “The regulatory landscape for Ibogaine is complex, but the potential benefits are immense. We are dedicated to pioneering change and demonstrating the effectiveness of this ancient practice in modern mental health treatment.”
