Natural Scent in Integrative Therapy
Basic Aromatic Framework for Somatics, Breathwork, Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, etc.
When combining a few holistic approaches into a more balanced method that suits the individual, therapists often overlook the importance of scent, one of the five intrinsic senses, and arguably one of the most instinctual. Yet when therapists do try to incorporate scent or aromatherapy, they often feel discouraged, assuming that natural aromatics are a whole new field requiring months of study. That is not true. In this post, I will show you how to use natural scent in a simple, approachable way.
What Is Integrative Therapy?
Integrative therapy is a holistic approach that draws from both clinical and spiritual modalities to support healing across mind, body, and spirit. Rather than relying on a single method, it weaves together practices such as somatic therapy, breathwork, trauma release, mindfulness, depth psychology, creative expression, energy work, and transpersonal or psychedelic-assisted therapies. It recognizes that true healing involves more than mental insight; it requires embodied experience, emotional integration, and spiritual connection.
The Role of Subtle Aromatherapy
Subtle aromatherapy works within this framework, using essential oils and natural aromatic extracts as therapeutic tools that engage the senses, regulate the nervous system, and support expanded states of consciousness. Scent becomes a bridge, linking body and psyche, grounding presence, and enhancing subtle awareness. When applied with intention, aromatherapy can be a powerful complement to psychological, somatic, and spiritual practices, tailored to the individual’s unique process of transformation.
Safety First
Any integrative therapy that includes aromatherapy should begin with safety. Use oils you are familiar with. Ask your clients if they have any allergies, sensitivities, or are taking medications. The space should be well-ventilated, even during the session. If incense is used, ensure it comes from high-quality, natural aromatic materials. Those with respiratory issues should avoid incense altogether. Pregnant or lactating clients should only use the safest essential oils, and only with their physician’s approval.
No matter what method you choose (diffusion, massage oils, anointing oils, perfume blends, or room sprays) always put safety first. If you are using different oils at different stages of the session, check in advance whether their actions and aromas are compatible. Consider both their effects (sedative, meditative, stimulating, etc.) and their aromatic profile (citrus, resinous, green, gourmand, etc.).
Intuitive Approach to Scent
There are dozens of books on aromatherapy, and each author offers their own perspective. For me, aromatics should always come intuitively. Of course, you can create your own list of essential oils suited to different situations, and that is helpful, but when working with emotional and spiritual states, I believe everyone has the right to choose what feels most familiar, pleasant, and comforting.
These preferences may vary depending not only on the person, but also the situation, season, and quality of the aromatic. I recommend preparing a selection of oils suitable for different phases of the session (before, during, and after), but always let the client choose what feels right in the moment.
Timing and Sensory Sensitivity
Olfactory sensitivity changes throughout the day. It is commonly said that we are more sensitive in the morning, though I find this varies from person to person. Keep in mind that our sense of smell can dull after just a few minutes of exposure to the same scent. This means a client may eventually stop perceiving a scent that is continuously diffused.
Collaborating with the Client
Always ask your client whether they are comfortable using scent, and what strength or application method they prefer. In spring and summer, some clients may be more sensitive due to seasonal allergies, and scent should be reduced. Even natural aromatics can occasionally trigger a reaction. I highly recommend keeping records of each session and making notes. This will help you adjust and refine your approach in future sessions, including with other clients.
Personalizing the Experience
If you work with multiple clients, each with their own scent preferences, you can prepare small spray or dropper bottles and use paper blotters for individual scent exploration. Oils can also be diluted and used for palm inhalation, where a drop is placed on the palm and inhaled personally. This allows each client to experience scent within their own space.
Harmonizing Scent with Other Tools
If your sessions include music or other tools, remember to adjust the scent accordingly. These elements should work together in harmony. Is the music reflective or rhythmic? Are there instruments or singing? Match the tempo and energy of the scent to the tone of the session. Ask yourself: what is the desired state of mind? These details shape the overall atmosphere and depth of the experience.
On-the-Go Aromatic Libraries
If you travel for sessions, create a small, portable library of natural aromatics and include only the bottles most suitable for your chosen method, whether for individual or shared use.
Keep It Gentle, Start Small
Scent should never be overwhelming. It must be soft, inviting, evocative, and pleasant. It should never overpower the purpose of the session; it is a supportive tool, not the main focus. Test blends on your own first. Ask friends or family to experience your sessions with scent and give feedback. It's fine to begin with familiar oils like lavender, frankincense, or chamomile, just choose the highest quality available. Start small and add new oils slowly. If you’re incorporating scent for the first time, invite the client to write down their impressions.
Build Your Scent Toolkit
Alongside your scent collection, keep a reference card or notebook listing the properties and actions of each oil. This will make it easier to select appropriate aromas when adjustments are needed. You can present three to five oils to the client, those suited to the moment, and invite them to choose what feels best.
You can start with three basic oils, and if you feel happy with that amount and your clients approve of them, it is okay to stop there. Over time, you may want to add a few more to experiment with. Always study each oil for safety, contraindications, and dermal limits for both the oil and the method of application. When in doubt, keep a list of GRAS (generally recognized as safe) oils and stick to them, such as lavender, chamomile, vetiver, and mandarin. Natural aromatics are a special area that feels very inviting, and the more you study them, the more you want to learn and experience. It is natural to want to explore new scents, but watch out for expensive oils and invest wisely. Many practitioners tend to shift their focus toward scent over time. I think the sense of smell is not fully engaged in daily life, which is why we are drawn to the magic of aroma. Adding it to any holistic therapy can open many new doors for both the practitioner and the client.