The REALNESS of the Woo-Woo

As therapists, we aim to meet every client with cultural humility, curiosity, and openness. We meet them where they are—without judgment. I truly believe that understanding a client’s “why we’re here” is often the key to figuring out how to help them get to where they want to go.

Time and again, clients begin answering questions about religion, the afterlife, or personal beliefs with the familiar preface: “This is going to sound so woo-woo…”

Here’s the thing: everyone’s “woo-woo” looks different—and honestly, I’m here for it. Some trust the natural order of the universe. Others lean on past lives, angels, spirit guides, deceased loved ones, or source energy for guidance. Whatever form it takes, it’s real and meaningful to them, and therefore part of our work. At the same time, we always ground this in good clinical care—making sure to rule out concerns like psychosis, hallucinations, or delusions.

Whether or not I share a client’s belief system, exploring what gives them meaning, comfort, or hope can be deeply therapeutic. More importantly, it can help regulate the nervous system and support the treatment process.

There is considerable evidence showing the health benefits of strong faith. Religious, or otherwise. Hope, faith, and belief in something bigger than ourselves can make a world of difference. The placebo effect reminds us that belief alone can create real emotional and physical changes. Imagination and visualization can measurably influence stress responses, emotional regulation, pain perception, and nervous system activation.

I share this example with clients so often that I sometimes roll my eyes at myself:

Just imagine biting into a sour lemon, feeling the sharp juice on your tongue. Chances are, your mouth starts to water. That’s your brain reacting as if it’s real, sending signals to your salivary glands to produce saliva. Even without tasting the lemon, your body responds. Mind blown. At least, that’s what I tell myself.

Because the brain doesn’t always distinguish between imagined and experienced events, people often report a felt sense that what they visualize is “happening.” That overlap in brain activation explains why mental rehearsal can reduce pain, lower anxiety, and boost motivation.

Enter EMDR. EMDR may be especially powerful because it engages imagery, emotional networks, body sensations, and deeply held beliefs simultaneously. So before we dismiss the ‘woo-woo,’ perhaps we can stay curious about the ways meaning, imagination, ritual, spirituality, and belief can support healing and connection.

Do I consider myself woo-woo? Most definitely. The way the realness of the woo helps clients cannot be ignored, so I welcome it. I can’t be certain about the workings of the universe, synchronicities, and signs—but I will tell you this: all bets are off with the smell of patchouli.

With cosmic energy and a grounded vibe,

Mandy

(*At least that's who I am in this lifetime)