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Background: Eye‐movement protocols are considered empirical, evidence‐based treatments for mental disorders, and there is ample research around their efficacy. However, little research as to why these approaches are effective exists. In this study, an emerging approach, titled Tholáge neuropsychotherapy (called RELEASE at the time of the study), is explained and tested through an exploratory mixed method experiment. Aims: A new theory on the efficacy of eye‐movement treatments is also presented, exploring existing research and contending that specific emotions are associated with specific eye movements. If proven, it may be possible to use eye movements to access specific emotions, for therapeutic outcomes. Methods: In this experiment, there were 14 participants (n = 14) who experienced Tholáge as a treatment for depression. Two one‐way ANOVAs were conducted and found to be statistically significant and have a large effect size. Qualitative responses were shared from participants, and themes were highlighted. Results: The ANOVAs and qualitative responses demonstrated that Tholáge was effective with emotional regulation, and participants showed improvement on measures of affect and depression (the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and Beck Depression Inventory). Discussion: These results show that there is potential for this new eye‐movement treatment in reducing symptoms of depression. Conclusion: These findings can help practitioners in treatment of depression and potentially other diagnoses as well. There needs to be more research studies conducted on the efficacy of this treatment protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breathwork techniques and therapies offer a set of practical interventions for clinical mental health counselors (CMHCs) and are viable methods for integrating physiological sensitivities in treatment by way of the relaxation response. We discuss an organizing framework of breathwork practices and identify three broad categories of breathwork within the field: deep relaxation breathing, mindfulness breathwork. and yogic breathing. Each style is distinct in how it is applied and in the specific respiratory patterns that users are instructed to use. We also aim to elaborate the physiological effects, clinical research outcomes, and applicability of breathwork for treating mental illness. Overall, research findings indicate that breathwork may be efficacious for treating anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Despite preliminary evidence for breathwork's efficacy for treating common psychological distress, more research is needed to evaluate its utility for treating a wider range of mental illness. CMHCs are encouraged to incorporate breathwork techniques in their clinical treatment programs but must appraise the value o f each technique individually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]