What Is the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) Model?

The Healing Our Core Issues model is an experiential therapy approach that has eclectic roots via the work of Pia Mellody and Post-Induction Therapy (PIT) as well as the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC and Rick Butts, LPCC. HOCI focuses on identifying and healing the core emotional wounds that come from early developmental and relational trauma.  These early experiences can shape how we see ourselves and relate to others—often leading to challenges such as low self-worth, codependency, control struggles, boundary confusion, or emotional reactivity. The goal of this work is to help individuals reconnect with their authentic self—the grounded, compassionate, and capable part of who we truly are beneath our learned survival patterns.

Five Core Areas of Healing:

Through the HOCI model, we work to restore balance in five essential areas of emotional development:

1. Self-Esteem – Moving from shame and self-criticism toward self-acceptance and self-worth.

2. Boundaries – Learning to identify, set, and maintain healthy emotional and physical boundaries.

3. Reality – Accepting both strengths and limitations in ourselves and others without judgment.

4. Dependency – Learning to meet needs responsibly and to ask for support in healthy ways.

5. Moderation – Cultivating balance in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

This integrative process helps clients replace shame-based beliefs with self-compassion and emotional stability.

What Happens in a Weekend Intensive?

A Healing Our Core Issues Weekend Intensive offers a powerful opportunity to do focused, in-depth work in a supportive environment.

During the weekend, participants engage in a combination of:​

• Educational sessions on trauma, emotion regulation, and boundaries

• Experiential exercises designed to process old wounds and create new emotional pathways

You’ll have the chance to identify the roots of recurring struggles, release stored emotions, and strengthen the connection between your adult self and your inner child.

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What You May Gain

Participants often report:

• Greater emotional clarity and self-understanding

• A sense of release and relief from old pain

• Healthier boundaries and communication patterns

• Increased confidence, self-compassion, and inner peace

While an intensive is not a substitute for ongoing therapy, many find it accelerates the healing process and deepens their personal growth work.

 

Overall, HOCI work can be a life-changing opportunity to heal at the deepest level—freeing you to move forward with greater self-awareness and emotional freedom.