The IDEA Framework: Integrating Positive Psychology, Yoga, Hypnotherapy, and Bilateral Stimulation for Safety, Stabilization, and Healing of Well-Being

This article integrates an empowering lens to showcase a multimodal approach that promotes and develops safety, healing, and well-being with a supportive therapist. It describes and explains tenets of positive psychology, yoga, hypnotherapy, and bilateral stimulation to develop client skills to foster safety and healing and consequently, their well-being. Research has shown that these practices can enhance neural connectivity, improve emotional regulation, and reduce stress responses. As a result, safety and stabilization are established for the client. All four of these modalities integrate empowerment and connectedness for the client. The authors also provide examples of integrating the approaches to support clients and their mental health in specific scenarios. This article is the start of a multimodal or scaffolded approach to empower client healing within mental health. The authors provide an acronym, IDEA, which translates to identify (client issue or presenting problem), determine the first approach, engage in integration, and assess and evaluate progress. The IDEA approach can be utilized with one approach at a time or integrate all approaches as necessary. The client’s well-being is prioritized and their ability to heal is emphasized. This article acts as a foundation for future research regarding pathways to safety and healing for well-being. It also provides an evidence-based structure to assist clinicians and clients with their healing of well-being journeys.