Integrative Psychiatry: A Journey Toward Wholeness
“In today’s world, the conversation around mental health is shifting. More people are seeking not just relief from symptoms but deeper healing—a sense of connection to themselves, others, and the greater fabric of life. This is where integrative psychiatry steps in, offering a path that honors the complexities of the human mind, body, and spirit.”
- Ben Medrano, MD
When I think about integrative psychiatry, I picture it as a bridge. On one side is the robust science of modern medicine—the carefully studied pharmaceuticals, cutting-edge therapies, and neuroscience-backed insights. On the other side are the timeless wisdom traditions, practices that have supported human flourishing for millennia, including meditation, mindfulness, nutrition, and plant-based healing. The bridge is built when we see the value in both approaches, using them in harmony to support the unique needs of each individual.
For me, this approach is deeply personal. I’ve seen how transformative it can be when someone feels truly seen, heard, and held in a therapeutic space. Whether it’s exploring the effects of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy or delving into lifestyle changes that nurture the nervous system, integrative psychiatry is about creating a container where people can safely explore the root causes of their suffering and reclaim their innate wholeness.
The Mind-Body-Spirit Connection
At its core, integrative psychiatry acknowledges that we are more than our diagnoses. The body carries the memories of the mind, the mind shapes the experiences of the body, and the spirit—however one defines it—acts as the thread that weaves meaning through it all. Ignoring one part of this triad is like trying to heal a tree by watering only its leaves. The roots, trunk, and branches all need care.
In my practice, this might look like blending evidence-based psychopharmacology with tools like yoga, breathwork, and guided imagery. It could involve diving into nutritional psychiatry, exploring how gut health and nutrient deficiencies might contribute to depression or anxiety. Or it might take the form of ketamine assisted therapy, where the medicine becomes a doorway to profound self-awareness and transformation.
A Transpersonal Lens
Something I hold close to my heart is the transpersonal aspect of this work. It’s the idea that healing is not just about getting back to “normal” but about tapping into something greater—a sense of purpose, interconnectedness, and even awe. When we create space for these experiences, we often find that symptoms like anxiety, depression, or trauma begin to shift naturally, as if the deeper alignment makes room for a new way of being.
One of the most beautiful aspects of integrative psychiatry is that it’s not about forcing change. It’s about inviting it. The work is gentle yet profound. It’s the act of planting seeds—whether through therapy, medication, or mindfulness—and tending to them with patience and care.
The Role of the Therapeutic Relationship
At the heart of it all is the relationship. Healing rarely happens in isolation. In integrative psychiatry, the connection between practitioner and patient is a partnership—a collaborative process where both voices matter. I strive to create a space where vulnerability is met with compassion and where exploration is met with curiosity, not judgment.
My role isn’t to tell someone what’s wrong or to impose a rigid treatment plan. It’s to walk alongside them as they uncover their inner resources, wisdom, and strength. Together, we chart a course that feels authentic to them, one that respects their story, culture, and personal goals.
Integrative Psychiatry in Practice
Some practical elements I often weave into care include:
Psychopharmacology with Precision: Using medications as tools, not fixes, and constantly reassessing their role as someone’s journey evolves.
Nutritional Support: Addressing diet, supplementation, and the role of the microbiome in mental health.
Somatic Practices: Incorporating yoga, movement, or bodywork to release stored tension and promote balance.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Teaching tools to help anchor the mind in the present moment.
Ketamine Assisted Therapies: Using medicines like ketamine in a safe, structured way to catalyze healing.
Community and Connection: Encouraging relationships and practices that foster a sense of belonging.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, integrative psychiatry is about hope.
It’s about recognizing that no matter how lost someone may feel, there is a way forward—one that is both rooted in evidence and expansive enough to honor the mystery of being human.
It’s a privilege to do this work and to witness the resilience of the human spirit. Together, we’re not just treating symptoms; we’re nurturing the conditions for growth, meaning, and transformation. And in that process, we’re building bridges—not only between science and spirit but also between people and their own potential.
If you’re seeking a different kind of mental health care—one that sees you as a whole person and honors your unique path—New York Integrative Psychiatry is here to support you. Whether you're curious about ketamine-assisted therapy, looking to explore root-cause healing, or simply ready for a more compassionate, collaborative approach, we invite you to reach out. Let’s walk this bridge together—toward wholeness, meaning, and true transformation.