What is Contemplative Counseling?
Contemplative Counseling has its origins in both Buddhist philosophy and Western psychology. Blending each of these traditions lends itself to a unique form of therapy; one that honors the inherent and unconditional wisdom of each human being, while also addressing the psychological challenges that we each face in this modern world. The root teaching of this lineage is brilliant sanity. Brilliant sanity is our basic nature. Its essential qualities are: spaciousness, clarity, and warmth. If we were to closely examine our lives, we would see that there is fundamental goodness and wholeness within our challenges. Contemplative Counseling seeks to provide a space where you can reconnect with your own goodness, or brilliant sanity. Reconnecting with brilliant sanity aligns us with who we truly are and deep change can occur from the inside out.
Who is a Contemplative Counselor?
The Contemplative Counselor is grounded in the practice of ongoing exploration of working with one's own mind. Meditation serves the counselor in understanding their own mind, in order to help work with others. This training is considered essential, as it puts the counselor in a position to be with you in your pain, not separated by the roles of "therapist" and "client." With values of connectedness, authenticity, and awareness, the Contemplative Counselor accompanies you in the personal journey of waking up to your brilliant sanity.
What Does Therapy Look Like?
Therapy sessions are conducted one-on-one. These are 50-minute sessions, and we generally recommend meeting weekly. During therapy you will be gently guided and prompted to begin to bring attention to your experience. The methods of Contemplative Counseling can vary, depending on your particular needs. Our therapists are trained in a variety of modalities including behavioral, somatic, and experiential therapies. Meditation instruction is available if desired, but is not necessary to engage in therapy.
Therapy is also a space that is open for relational dialogue between therapist and client. Working within the relationship between therapist and client often yields rich results of learning how you relate to others in your life, within a safe environment. Our therapists follow you, at your own pace, honoring your need for space as well as connection.
Is Therapy Right for Me?
People seek counseling when they are struggling with difficult emotions, moods, and behaviors. This list of questions can help you determine if counseling could be a good fit for you.
Do you feel stuck in your life and unsure how to move towards what you want?
Do you feel anxious about the unknown future?
Do you feel caught in the past?
Have you recently experienced a major loss or transition?
Are you seeking answers to the deeper questions in your life?
Are you ready for change?
Schedule your free phone consultation: (805) 807-9481