In today's episode, we explore the concept of whole-person mental health delivered by a physical therapist. We explore what whole person health means, its various forms, and how it shapes physical therapist practice. My cohost, Jeremy Fletcher, PT, DPT, shares his experience with whole person care during his time as a physical therapist on active duty, highlighting the Performance Triad initiative by the U.S. Army, which focused on sleep, activity, and nutrition.

I'll recount key parts of my journey into whole person health, starting with a mindfulness course and later publishing research and delivering integrative and lifestyle medicine interventions for people with chronic pain and co-occurring mental health conditions. We discuss the importance of understanding holistic health, which encompasses physical, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects, and how these elements interact to influence both physical and mental health outcomes that consider the whole person.

Learn about training in psychologically-informed physical therapy and becoming a Mental Health Physical Therapist here.

Thank you for listening, Joe Tatta, PT, DPT CEO: Integrative Pain Science Institute