Integrative Nursing: A framework for whole-person mental health care

With growing support from professional standards and governing bodies, nurses are not only encouraged, but often expected, to incorporate complementary and alternative therapies into their practice when appropriate. This evolution reflects a broader understanding of health and healing as multidimensional, culturally sensitive and deeply rooted in patients’ lived experiences.

The 4th edition of the Nursing Scope and Standards of Practice explicitly supports the use of integrative therapies. Both Registered Nurses and Advanced Practice Registered Nurses are now expected to demonstrate competence in traditional and integrative evidence-based treatments that honor patients' backgrounds and preferences. This represents a move away from viewing integrative approaches as optional toward recognizing them as standard competencies.

For Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners, expectations are even more clearly defined. Their role requires a working knowledge of both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions along with a range of complementary modalities and ensuring that mental health care is comprehensive, individualized and holistic.

Integrative nursing places a strong emphasis on community-centered care—an approach especially relevant for ambulatory and mental health providers. As healthcare becomes increasingly digital through AI and automation, the future of nursing depends on preserving its human core. Connection, empathy and therapeutic presence are irreplaceable. The profession’s resilience, adaptability and focus on relationship-based care will be essential in maintaining its distinct and vital role in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Individuals are inseparable from their environments. Community-based care becomes especially vital in addressing modern challenges such as social isolation and rising mental health concerns. Nurses play a critical role in helping patients reconnect with meaning, purpose, and community — often through simple but powerful interventions like presence, conversation, and emotional support.

Every person has an inherent ability to heal. Nurses, particularly in hospice and palliative care, are trained in trauma-informed practices that create emotionally safe environments. Techniques like deep listening, silence, trust-building, and validation foster healing on emotional and psychological levels, and should be embraced across all specialties—not just end-of-life care.

Integrative nursing is grounded in authentic relationships. Nurses are called to listen deeply, personalize care and view patients not as whole individuals with unique stories. This approach prioritizes the patient’s experience and supports the development of care plans that are both clinically effective and emotionally resonant.

Featured image courtesy of iStock.