How Herbs Can Support Your Therapy Work

In recent years, there has been growing interest in integrative approaches to mental health—strategies that combine traditional psychotherapy with complementary practices. Among these, herbal medicine has gained recognition for its potential to support emotional well-being and enhance the therapeutic process. When used responsibly and under professional guidance, herbal remedies can be a valuable adjunct to therapy, helping individuals manage symptoms, regulate mood, and foster resilience. I have also found that our herbal allies can show up for us in-session in some really amazing ways; helping us to be more open, adaptable, and safe-feeling as we work with our mental healthcare provider toward our wellness goals.

Five Ways Herbs Can Support Your Therapy Work

Reducing Emotional Reactivity

Herbs can help calm an overactive nervous system, making it easier for individuals to engage in difficult conversations during therapy without becoming overwhelmed. I have found that supporting clients with tea blends they can take with them to their therapy session and sip on can offer profound effects which can be seen by the therapist and experienced by the client.

Improving Sleep and Recovery

Restorative sleep is crucial for emotional processing. Calming herbs can support better sleep hygiene, aiding the integration of therapeutic insights. If we’re not sleeping, we’re not processing- and if we’re not recovering each day, we simply won’t have the vital energy it takes to get well.

Enhancing Emotional Resilience

Adaptogens may help regulate stress hormones and support emotional endurance, which can be particularly helpful during intense phases of therapy. These herbs are known for their ability to help protect us from the damaging effects of everyday stress- and can even be there as we experience the stresses of healing transformations. In my own work with adaptogens, I have found that it’s crucial for each person to connect with the right herb for them rather than taking a formula full of many different herbs or selecting based solely on listed benefits. In my clinical practice I always encourage folks to engage with an adaptogen!

Supporting Nervous System Health

Some herbs contain compounds that nourish the nervous system and promote a sense of balance and grounding, which can complement the emotional regulation strategies developed in therapy. These herbs then become connected to the therapeutic work being done and help the individual to add more support to their healing strategies.

Connection and Belonging

As we navigate the journey of therapy, one of the greatest things I think herbs can offer us is a sense of belonging in the world and being part of nature. The plants will always affirm with us that we belong here, we are valued, and we have a place in the world- and I think that is in and of itself such exceptional medicine!

Combining Herbalism & Therapy The Right Way

Consult Professionals

Always speak with a qualified herbalist or integrative healthcare provider, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions. Some herbs may interact with antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other prescriptions.

Maintain Open Communication

Let your therapist know if you are using herbal remedies. A collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of your care are aligned and supportive of your mental health goals.

Stay Informed and Intentional

Use herbs with a clear purpose and understanding of their effects. Avoid self-prescribing based on anecdotal evidence or online recommendations alone. Herbal medicine is intended to be extremely personal in nature- and each herb and formula should be chosen with the support of an herbalist.

If you’re in therapy and want to add the support of an herbalist in Salt Lake City, Utah, I would love to connect! My clinical focus is on stress, rest, resilience, and energy- and I am so supportive of folks who are talking the journey of self-care through therapy. If you have any questions about what our work together can look like and how you can bring herbs into your therapy, please reach out and let’s chat!