Holistic approach to addiction: 7 Powerful Ways to Transform 2025
Understanding the Whole Person: Beyond Substance Use
A holistic approach to addiction recognizes that addiction affects the whole person – not just their physical dependence on substances. This comprehensive treatment philosophy addresses:
- Physical health – Managing withdrawal, improving nutrition, exercise, and sleep
- Mental wellbeing – Treating co-occurring disorders, developing coping skills
- Emotional healing – Processing trauma, building emotional regulation
- Social connections – Rebuilding relationships, creating support networks
- Spiritual growth – Finding meaning, purpose and connection beyond substances
Rather than focusing solely on abstinence, holistic addiction treatment creates sustainable recovery by healing the root causes of substance use while building a meaningful, balanced life.
About 4 out of 10 adults in the United States use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), which includes holistic therapies. Research indicates that satisfaction with treatment, which can be increased by holistic therapies, is related to higher treatment retention and completion rates—both of which are linked to more favorable recovery outcomes.
A holistic approach recognizes that addiction isn’t simply a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. It’s a complex condition influenced by a combination of genetic, psychological, environmental and social factors. When we address only one dimension—like the physical symptoms of withdrawal—we miss the deeper causes that may lead to relapse.
I’m Rachel Acres, founder of The Freedom Room, and my own recovery journey taught me the transformative power of a holistic approach to addiction treatment, which is why I’ve dedicated my life to helping others find healing through comprehensive, whole-person care.
Understanding the Holistic Approach to Addiction
When we talk about a holistic approach to addiction treatment, we’re describing something fundamentally different from traditional recovery methods. Rather than focusing solely on stopping substance use, holistic care accepts the complexity of each person’s unique journey.
At The Freedom Room, we see holistic addiction treatment as a comprehensive framework that nurtures your whole self – not just addressing your relationship with substances, but helping you thrive in every dimension of your life. This means integrating evidence-based treatments like counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy with complementary practices that support your overall wellbeing.
Research from the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health backs this up, showing that integrative approaches significantly improve recovery outcomes. The benefits of a holistic approach to addiction treatment are clear and measurable – better treatment retention, reduced withdrawal symptoms, improved mental health, stronger relapse-prevention skills, and more effective management of co-occurring conditions.
Our CBT for Addiction program demonstrates this beautifully, showing how traditional therapeutic approaches become even more powerful when woven into a holistic recovery framework.
Why a holistic approach to addiction is gaining momentum
The growing popularity of the holistic approach to addiction treatment isn’t just a trend – it represents a fundamental shift in how we understand and address substance-use disorders. This momentum continues building for several important reasons.
First, we now recognise that addiction typically stems from deeper root causes. Rather than simply treating the behaviour, holistic care addresses the underlying trauma, mental-health challenges, and disconnection that often fuel addictive patterns.
Second, the medical community has evolved to view addiction as a chronic health condition, similar to diabetes or heart disease. Like these conditions, addiction requires ongoing, multifaceted care rather than a quick fix.
The widespread acceptance of complementary therapies has naturally extended to addiction treatment as well. With approximately 40 % of adults already using some form of complementary and alternative medicine in their everyday lives, people are increasingly open to these approaches in recovery settings.
Perhaps most importantly, holistic recovery puts you in the driver’s seat of your own healing journey. At The Freedom Room, we believe in empowering you with diverse tools and techniques that support sustainable recovery. We’ve seen how this approach creates not just sobriety, but a genuinely fulfilling life beyond addiction.
The statistics strongly support this shift. About 40 % of people with substance-use disorders also experience co-occurring mental-health conditions, making comprehensive treatment especially vital. Research has also shown that exercise interventions – a common element in holistic programmes – can significantly reduce depression and anxiety in people recovering from substance use disorders.
Core Principles and Evidence-Based Foundations
The holistic approach to addiction isn’t just a trendy concept—it’s a thoughtful framework built on solid principles that we accept daily at The Freedom Room. When Rachel founded our centre, she wanted to create a place where recovery meant healing the whole person, not just addressing substance use.
At the heart of our approach are five key principles that guide everything we do:
First, we believe in the power of integrating multiple modalities. Rather than relying on a single treatment method, we weave together evidence-based practices with complementary therapies to create a mix of healing. This might mean combining traditional counselling with mindfulness practices, or pairing cognitive behavioural therapy with creative expression.
We’re also deeply committed to patient-centred care. Your journey with addiction is uniquely yours, with its own challenges, triggers, and strengths. That’s why we tailor our approach to fit you—not the other way around.
Our dual diagnosis treatment recognises that mental health and addiction often walk hand-in-hand. With about 40% of people with substance use disorders also experiencing mental health conditions, addressing both simultaneously is crucial for lasting recovery.
We approach every interaction through a trauma-informed lens, understanding that many paths to addiction include painful experiences that need gentle healing. Our team creates safe spaces where trauma can be processed at your own pace, using approaches that address the mind-body connection.
Finally, we accept lifestyle medicine as a cornerstone of recovery. The daily habits of nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and social connection aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re essential foundations for building a sustainable, substance-free life.
The science supporting physical exercise in addiction recovery is particularly impressive. Research published in Frontiers in Psychiatry shows that regular movement does far more than improve physical health. Exercise actually reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, lifts depression and anxiety, improves sleep quality, improves cognitive function, and builds the self-confidence that’s so crucial in recovery.
You can see these principles in action in our EFT and CBT Therapy program, where we combine the evidence-based structure of cognitive behavioural therapy with the emotional freedom technique to address both thought patterns and emotional responses.
How the holistic approach to addiction aligns with current science
Gone are the days when holistic practices were considered fringe or alternative. Today’s research increasingly supports what many in recovery have experienced firsthand—healing happens when we address the whole person.
Neuroplasticity is perhaps one of the most hopeful scientific findies for anyone in recovery. Your brain has an amazing ability to heal and rewire itself, even after years of substance use. When we practice mindfulness meditation, engage in certain types of exercise, or participate in creative therapies, we’re actually supporting positive changes in the brain’s structure and function. A fascinating study in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that mindfulness practices strengthen the prefrontal cortex—the part of your brain that helps override impulsive behaviours that can lead to relapse.
The science around stress reduction is equally compelling. We know that chronic stress not only contributes to developing addiction but also makes relapse more likely. Holistic practices like yoga, tai chi, and guided relaxation have been proven to lower cortisol levels and activate your body’s natural relaxation response. This creates a physiological environment where recovery can flourish rather than flounder.
When it comes to treatment retention—simply staying in treatment long enough for it to work—programs with holistic elements show a clear advantage. At The Freedom Room, we’ve noticed that clients who engage with multiple aspects of our program are significantly more likely to complete treatment. This makes intuitive sense—when treatment addresses all your needs and includes elements you genuinely enjoy, you’re more motivated to stick with it.
Looking at outcome metrics, the evidence continues to build. A comprehensive review of complementary therapies in addiction treatment found that practices like acupuncture, meditation, and nutritional therapy, when used alongside conventional treatments, improve outcomes across multiple measures—from abstinence rates to psychological wellbeing and overall quality of life.
As Rachel often explains to new clients, the science increasingly confirms what many in recovery have experienced firsthand—that healing from addiction requires addressing the whole person, not just the substance use behaviour.
The beauty of this alignment between holistic approaches and current science is that it gives us the best of both worlds—the wisdom of traditional healing practices combined with the rigour of modern research. At The Freedom Room, we don’t see these as competing approaches but as complementary paths that, when woven together, create a stronger foundation for lasting recovery.
Holistic Therapies in Action
When you walk through the doors of The Freedom Room, you’ll find a vibrant mix of healing approaches that go far beyond traditional talk therapy. We’ve carefully selected evidence-informed holistic therapies that work together to nurture every aspect of your recovery journey.
Mindfulness and meditation form the cornerstone of our holistic approach. These practices teach you to observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment – a crucial skill when cravings or difficult emotions arise.
Yoga offers a powerful blend of physical movement, breath control, and meditation that research shows can significantly reduce stress hormones while improving mood. Many clients find that reconnecting with their bodies through yoga helps repair the physical and emotional disconnection that often accompanies addiction.
The creative arts provide healing in ways words sometimes cannot. Our art therapy sessions allow emotions buried deep within to find expression on canvas, while music therapy taps into the profound emotional processing that happens when we engage with rhythm and melody. For many clients, these creative outlets become lifelong recovery tools that bring joy and meaning.
Journalling creates space for honest self-reflection and processing difficult emotions. Our resource on The Healing Power of Journalling guides you through effective techniques to make this practice a meaningful part of your recovery toolkit.
Nutritional therapy addresses the often-overlooked physical aspects of recovery. Many people enter recovery with significant nutritional deficiencies that affect mood, energy, and cognitive function. We help you develop sustainable eating patterns that support brain healing and emotional stability.
Acupuncture has shown remarkable effectiveness in reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The specialized NADA protocol we use was specifically developed for addiction recovery and works by balancing the body’s energy systems.
Neurofeedback technology helps retrain brain patterns affected by substance use, while our outdoor programs reconnect clients with nature’s healing power while building confidence through new experiences.
Our Group Recovery Meetings integrate many of these holistic elements within a supportive community context, creating multiple pathways to healing.
Daily practices to support a holistic approach to addiction
The real magic of a holistic approach to addiction happens in your everyday life. Small, consistent practices create the foundation for sustainable recovery:
Breath work serves as an instant reset button for your nervous system. When stress or cravings hit, simple techniques like the 4-7-8 method can shift you from fight-or-flight into a calmer state within minutes. We teach several breathing practices that you can use anywhere, anytime – whether you’re in a triggering social situation or lying awake with racing thoughts.
Gratitude practice might sound simple, but it’s neurologically powerful. Taking a few minutes each day to acknowledge what’s going well rewires your brain toward positivity. Many clients keep a gratitude journal by their bed, writing three things they’re thankful for each morning or evening.
Daily movement doesn’t require a gym membership or special equipment. Even a 10-minute walk releases endorphins that combat cravings and improve mood.
Creative expression provides a healthy outlet for processing emotions. Whether it’s sketching during a lunch break, writing poetry, playing an instrument, or crafting, these activities build new neural pathways while giving voice to feelings that might otherwise fuel addictive behaviors.
Sleep hygiene might be the most underrated recovery tool. Quality sleep is when your brain heals and emotions regulate. We work with clients to establish consistent bedtime routines, create restful environments, and address insomnia through natural methods whenever possible.
These daily practices might seem modest compared to formal therapy, but together they create a powerful foundation for lasting recovery.
The beauty of these practices is their accessibility – they don’t require special equipment, appointments, or significant expense. They represent the practical, livable side of a holistic approach to addiction recovery that empowers you to be the primary architect of your healing journey.
Integrating Holistic and Conventional Care
The most effective holistic approach to addiction doesn’t reject conventional treatment methods but rather improves them. At The Freedom Room, we believe in creating integrated care plans that draw on the strengths of both traditional and complementary approaches.
Medical detoxification is often a necessary first step for those with physical dependence on alcohol or other substances. We work closely with healthcare providers to ensure this critical phase is handled safely, while simultaneously introducing gentle holistic practices that can ease discomfort during withdrawal. Many clients find that breathing techniques and guided imagery can make a significant difference during this challenging time.
For certain substance use disorders, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) can be an invaluable tool. Rather than viewing medications as contradictory to holistic care, we see them as potentially complementary when thoughtfully integrated with whole-person healing approaches.
Evidence-based psychotherapy forms the backbone of our Addiction Counselling program. Approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) provide structured frameworks for changing thought patterns and behaviours. These therapeutic modalities become even more powerful when combined with holistic practices that address the physical and spiritual dimensions of recovery.
Relapse prevention is another area where integration shines. We help clients develop comprehensive strategies that incorporate both conventional tools (identifying triggers, building coping skills) and holistic practices (stress-reduction techniques, lifestyle balance). Our Sober Survival Toolkit exemplifies this integrated approach, providing diverse strategies drawn from both conventional and holistic traditions.
Perhaps most importantly, we recognise that every person’s journey is unique. Our intake assessment explores all dimensions of wellbeing to create truly personalised treatment plans. This might mean more emphasis on trauma healing for one person, while another might benefit from deeper focus on nutritional recovery and physical wellness.
Research consistently shows that this integrated approach yields better outcomes than either conventional or alternative methods alone. Studies have found that programs combining evidence-based treatments with complementary therapies report higher patient satisfaction and better treatment retention—both key factors in successful recovery.
Building your team: professionals who champion a holistic approach to addiction
Creating a support network of professionals who understand and value holistic recovery is essential for long-term success. At The Freedom Room, we help clients build a recovery team that might include:
A general practitioner with experience or interest in addiction medicine and integrative health can serve as the cornerstone of your care team. Your GP can coordinate with specialists, manage medications if needed, and monitor your physical health throughout recovery. We can recommend GPs who are supportive of holistic approaches if you don’t already have one.
An addiction counsellor who understands both evidence-based therapies and complementary approaches will provide crucial emotional and psychological support. At The Freedom Room, all our counsellors have lived experience of recovery combined with professional qualifications, giving them unique insight into the challenges you’re facing.
A nutritionist or dietitian can address the nutritional deficiencies that often accompany addiction and develop eating plans that support brain healing and emotional stability. Proper nutrition is a foundational element of recovery that’s often overlooked in traditional treatment models.
Mind-body practitioners such as yoga teachers, meditation instructors, or tai chi facilitators who understand addiction recovery challenges can introduce you to practices that will serve you for a lifetime. These movement and mindfulness practices help rebuild the connection between body and mind that addiction often damages.
Peer support from others in recovery who accept holistic approaches provides understanding that even the most compassionate professionals without lived experience simply cannot offer. Our group sessions provide this community element, creating a space where people can share both struggles and solutions.
The beauty of the holistic approach to addiction treatment is that it’s flexible and evolving. As you progress in your recovery journey, your needs will change, and your support team can adapt accordingly. Some team members might be more important in early recovery, while others become crucial for maintaining long-term wellness and preventing relapse.
Choosing & Personalising Your Holistic Recovery Path
Finding the right holistic recovery program isn’t just about checking boxes—it’s about finding a path that resonates with your unique story and needs. At The Freedom Room, we believe this deeply personal journey begins with thoughtful consideration of what will truly work for you.
Starting with a comprehensive assessment gives us the clearest picture of your physical health, mental wellbeing, substance use history, and personal goals. This isn’t just paperwork—it’s the foundation upon which we’ll build your personalised recovery plan.
Navigating insurance and financial considerations can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. While coverage for holistic treatments varies, we’re committed to helping you understand your options and find solutions that work within your budget. Recovery shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be accessible.
When comparing different programs that offer a holistic approach to addiction treatment, look beyond the buzzwords. Not all holistic programs are created equal. We encourage you to ask detailed questions about which therapies are actually included, how they’re integrated into the overall program, and the qualifications of the staff providing them.
Today’s recovery landscape also includes valuable digital support options that can extend and improve your in-person treatment. From meditation apps to online communities and telehealth services, these tools can provide crucial support between sessions or when you’re unable to attend in person.
Recovery continues long after formal treatment ends. Programs that help you develop thoughtful aftercare planning recognise this reality. At The Freedom Room, we work with you to create sustainable practices you can carry forward into your everyday life.
Perhaps most importantly, trust yourself and practice self-advocacy throughout this process. The most effective recovery plan is one you genuinely connect with and feel motivated to pursue. Your intuition matters—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth exploring why.
Our resources on Effective Help with Alcohol Addiction highlight this personalised approach, acknowledging that what works for one person may not work for another. And because holistic recovery is ultimately about reclaiming joy and meaning, our guide to Increase Your Happiness offers practical ways to nurture wellbeing beyond sobriety.
Questions to ask a centre before enrolling
Before committing to any program, having an honest conversation with potential providers can help you determine if their holistic approach to addiction treatment truly aligns with your needs. Here are some essential questions to consider:
When you ask about specific holistic modalities offered, listen for detailed explanations of how different therapies work together rather than just a list of offerings. A truly integrated program should be able to explain how mindfulness practices complement counselling, or how physical movement supports emotional healing.
Inquire about the evidence or research that supports their methods. Quality programs balance traditional wisdom with contemporary science and should be transparent about both the strengths and limitations of different approaches.
Understanding how a centre personalises treatment plans is crucial. Be wary of one-size-fits-all approaches—your recovery journey is uniquely yours and should be treated as such. Ask for specific examples of how they might adapt their program to address your particular challenges and strengths.
The qualifications of staff matter tremendously. In addition to appropriate credentials, ask about their experience specifically with holistic addiction treatment. At The Freedom Room, our team’s lived experience of recovery brings an invaluable dimension to our work that complements our professional training.
Since family dynamics often play a significant role in both addiction and recovery, ask how the centre includes family in the recovery process. Quality programs recognise that healing often extends beyond the individual.
Requesting a breakdown of what a typical day or week looks like gives you practical insight into how holistic practices are actually implemented rather than just theoretically available. This helps set realistic expectations about your experience.
Given the high rate of co-occurring conditions, understanding how a centre addresses mental health alongside addiction is essential. Integrated treatment that acknowledges this complexity tends to be more effective than approaches that treat addiction in isolation.
Recovery extends far beyond formal treatment, so inquire about aftercare support. How will the centre help you transition back to daily life while maintaining your progress? What resources will be available to you after your program ends?
Clear cost transparency is non-negotiable. Make sure you understand exactly what services are included, what may involve additional fees, and what might be covered by insurance.
Finally, ask if you can speak with former clients or read testimonials. Hearing others’ experiences can provide valuable perspective on what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions about Holistic Addiction Recovery
What evidence supports holistic therapies in addiction treatment?
If you’re considering a holistic approach to addiction treatment, you might wonder about the scientific backing behind these therapies. The good news is that research supporting holistic approaches continues to grow stronger each year.
Mindfulness practices have shown particularly promising results. A comprehensive meta-analysis published in Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy found that regular mindfulness significantly reduces substance cravings while improving overall mood and quality of life. Many of our clients report that mindfulness gives them the space to respond thoughtfully to triggers rather than reacting automatically.
Physical exercise has emerged as another powerful recovery tool. Studies in Frontiers in Psychiatry demonstrate that regular movement reduces drug cravings and supports abstinence. Even more impressive is exercise’s ability to alleviate depression and anxiety symptoms – common challenges in early recovery that can threaten sobriety if left unaddressed.
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role too. Research in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association confirms that nutritional therapy improves recovery outcomes by addressing the deficiencies that often accompany addiction and helping restore balanced brain chemistry.
For acupuncture, while the evidence is more mixed, a systematic review in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found it can effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings when used alongside conventional treatments.
At The Freedom Room, we prioritise therapies with strong scientific backing while remaining open to promising emerging approaches. We’re committed to continuously evaluating new research to ensure our programmes represent the most effective paths to recovery.
Can holistic programmes work alongside medication or detox?
Absolutely – and they often work better together than either approach alone. Rather than seeing medication and holistic practices as competing alternatives, a true holistic approach to addiction treatment recognises they complement each other beautifully.
During detoxification, holistic therapies can significantly ease the process. Acupuncture may reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms, while mindfulness meditation helps manage the anxiety and cravings that often accompany detox. Nutritional support becomes particularly important during this phase, addressing deficiencies and supporting organ function as your body heals. Many clients find gentle movement practices like yoga or tai chi invaluable for easing physical discomfort and improving sleep during this challenging time.
For those using medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid or alcohol-use disorders, holistic practices address aspects of recovery that medications simply can’t touch. While medications might stabilise brain chemistry, holistic approaches help you rebuild your life by developing healthy coping skills, creating supportive community connections, and finding purpose and meaning.
How do I know which holistic practices are right for me?
Finding your personal combination of holistic practices is one of the most rewarding parts of recovery. At The Freedom Room, we’ve seen that the most effective approaches are as unique as the individuals practising them. Here’s how to find what works best for you:
• Begin with curiosity rather than judgement and try different approaches before deciding what resonates.
• Your past interests often provide clues – time in nature, creative pursuits, or movement can guide your choices.
• Different challenges respond to different approaches: anxiety often improves with meditation, while physical tension might benefit more from yoga or massage.
• Start small and pay attention to how you feel after each practice.
• Remain flexible – your needs will change throughout your recovery journey.
• Work with knowledgeable practitioners who can guide you based on both professional expertise and lived experience.
Ready for Change? Let’s Build a Stronger, Alcohol-Free Future Together
Starting on a holistic approach to addiction recovery means choosing a path that honours your complete humanity – not simply addressing substance use but healing the whole person. At The Freedom Room, we believe in your capacity to transform your relationship with alcohol and create a life filled with purpose, connection, and joy.
Our integrated care pathway combines evidence-based treatments with complementary holistic therapies, creating a comprehensive approach custom to your specific needs. Whether you’re drawn to mindfulness practices, creative expression, nutritional healing, or movement therapies, we’ll help you find the combination of approaches that resonates most deeply with you.
Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s an act of tremendous courage and self-compassion. By reaching out, you’re taking the first step toward reclaiming your health, rebuilding relationships, and refinding joy in everyday experiences.
If you’re ready to explore how a holistic approach to addiction could transform your relationship with alcohol, we invite you to learn more about our alcohol recovery services. Your journey toward wholeness begins with a single step – and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Let’s Build a Stronger, Alcohol-Free Future Together
Starting on recovery through a holistic approach to addiction means embracing change that goes far beyond simply putting down the drink. It’s about creating a rich, meaningful life where alcohol no longer serves a purpose or holds power over you.
At The Freedom Room, we believe in your innate capacity for healing and growth. What truly sets our approach apart is something you won’t find in textbooks or clinical manuals – it’s our lived experience. Every single person on our team has walked their own recovery journey. We’ve faced the same fears, battled the same demons, and celebrated the same milestones that lie ahead on your path.
This shared experience creates a unique environment where authentic empathy flows naturally, and practical wisdom comes from having steerd these waters personally. The connection between someone who has lived through addiction and someone currently struggling creates a powerful bridge of understanding that theoretical knowledge alone simply cannot build.
Our integrated care pathway doesn’t force you to choose between evidence-based treatments and complementary practices – we thoughtfully blend both approaches to address your specific needs and goals. We recognise that recovery isn’t a destination with a finish line but a continuing journey of self-findy and growth.
The holistic approach to addiction we offer empowers you with tools for every dimension of wellbeing:
- Physical healing through nutrition guidance and movement practices
- Emotional resilience through trauma-informed therapies
- Mental clarity through evidence-based psychological approaches
- Social connection through community support
- Spiritual growth through finding meaning and purpose beyond substances
Whether you’re taking your very first steps toward recovery or seeking a more comprehensive approach after previous attempts, we invite you to explore how our holistic program can support your journey. True recovery accepts and heals your whole self – body, mind, heart, and spirit.
For more information about our alcohol recovery services and how we can support your journey, visit our page on alcohol use disorder or contact us directly. Your change begins with a single step, and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Support & Resources
Reaching out for help is one of the bravest steps you can take on your recovery journey. If you or someone you love is struggling with alcohol addiction, please know that compassionate, experienced support is just a phone call away.
The Freedom Room team is here for you during business hours, ready to listen without judgment and guide you toward a holistic approach to addiction recovery that addresses your unique needs:
Our Office: (07) 3325 1531
Mobile: 0400 236 743 (Rachel)
We understand that addiction doesn’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. For immediate assistance outside our regular hours, these trusted resources are available 24/7:
Emergency Help: Call 000 (for crisis situations)
AA Helpline: 1300 222 222
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Al-Anon (for families affected by alcoholism): www.al-anon.org.au
Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful demonstration of strength and self-awareness. Every person who has successfully steerd recovery began with that first call or message reaching out for support.
You don’t have to face addiction alone. A supportive community and professional guidance can make all the difference in creating a fulfilling life beyond alcohol dependence. Reach out today—your future self will thank you for taking this crucial first step.