Spirituality in Psychotherapy

Spirituality is the underlying and overarching concern of psychotherapy.  Literally meaning "to nurse the soul," psychotherapy explores the depth of the individual and of the World Soul (which are ultimately One).  All humans have a spiritual dimension to their being.  That dimension is the intersection of the soul and Spirit both individually and collectively.  That dimension is both innate and, paradoxically, transcendent of the individual.

Unlike religion, psychotherapy explores the spiritual dimension from a more universal perspective.  The focus is on the common elements within the psyche regardless of religious affiliation, but not contrary to religious preference.  In fact, one must identify with a primary and particular tradition in order to make true spiritual progress.

Spirituality is a dynamic element in the psyche, not static.  When the spiritual dimension of self is more fully engaged there is an incredible leap of faith.  One is increasingly more receptive and not dogmatic.

Most of my clients come because of spiritual longing in their lives.  They desire a deeper connection with self and the world.  They desire deeper meaning in their existence.  They long for a sense of calling for their living.  I am priviledged to work with persons of many faiths and "no faith" (although that is a "faith").  I have worked with laity and clergy from many traditions including Protestants and Catholic Christians, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, numerous forms of NeoPaganism and Wicca, agnostics and atheists.

Some clients come to gain better understanding and experience of particular spiritual disciplines such as journeying work (from the shamanic traditions) or centering prayer (from the Christian monastic traditions).  Others come wanting a "secular" rather than "sacred" priestly function, although in the spiritual dimension there is no distinction between the sacred and the secular.  Some come to work on particular difficulties in their relationship with God or a church.  Many come struggling with their religion-of-origin, trying to reconcile their experience and what they were told.

I am not a guru or teacher, a medicine person (although I do experience everyone as having medicine).  "Soul nurse," spiritual consultant, spiritual psychotherapist or psychic guide are probably more accurate and satisfying descriptions of my role for most people.

When exploring the spiritual dimension with you I tend to focus on the elements of the spiritual life which are common to all (including atheists).  Like accessing other "life skills," spirituality can be "evaluated" by looking at its "components."  Some of these are:

Interrelatedness or Connectivity: This is the essential spiritual definer which all religious systems                   acknowledge as does science.  Everything throughout creation is interdependent and connected to everything and everyone else.  When a client is able to view the world as connected to and undistinct from him/herself their perception and experience is aligned with reality.  When I/we are mindful of our relatedness our neurosis receeds.

Consciousness: Out of this sense and experience of the relational quality of life comes Spiritual                 Conciousness.  The mind/heart set of the spiritual dimension maifests in openness, transparency, gentleness, civility, humor, quiet joy, reconciliation, authenticity, genuiness, presence (present centeredness), compassion (literally, "with passion" or "to be with suffering") and evolution.

Discipline or Practice: Not mere technique, spiritual practice involves the embodiment of behaviors on a regular basis such that they become part of the soul itself.  These include prayer, meditation, yoga, devotion, worship, ritual, ceremony and the like.  Ultimately, one's practice integrates body-mind-heart.  Our practice grants a growing awareness of Spirit in the body, into our natural self.

Community: By virtue of the interrelatedness of all life, the spiritual dimension of our being does not develop in isolation.  With a mature identification with a particular religious tradition one sees the commonality of all communities.  Community serves to support and embody the tradition and, thus, foster spiritual growth.

Service: The natural outgrowth of spiritual maturation is one of service.  There is a desire to manifest heartfulness into the world.

I hope this information is heart stirring and thought provoking.  I would be delighted to discuss your spiritual journey and share in its unfolding.

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