Contemplative Psychotherapy
1. Seated meditation or zazen is a discipline from Zen Buddhism that involves sitting quietly to calm the body and the mind. Practitioners aim at suspending judgmental thinking and letting thoughts, images and emotions "pass by" without getting involved with them. It can be a means of awakening insight into one's own nature and the nature of ultimate reality.
2. Centering Prayer is a method of wordless, or nearly wordless, prayer that places emphasizes interior silence. Through quieting the intellect one is able to simply rest in the presence of God. It has it's roots in ancient Christian practices, from both the East and the West.
3. The Enneagram is an ancient method of attaining self-knowledge and transformation. It has been used in several different spiritual traditions, including Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The word Enneagram means graph of nine, and it involves understanding 9 personality types. Each type has its own path to growth, which can lead to spiritual and psychological freedom.
4. The 12-Steps are a a set of guiding principles originally developed for attaining recovery from addiction. At their core, the 12-Steps are a method of spiritual transformation. They involve growth in self-awareness, genuineness with others, and a re-centering of one's life, away from ego defense mechanisms toward one's Higher Power as that is understood. As such, the 12-Steps can be an effective method for spiritual growth, even for those who do not struggle with addiction to alcohol or drugs.
A person’s ability to be present with whatever arises in the moment is the basis for meaningful psychotherapy. It is also the basis for a fulfilling life. Contemplative psychotherapy combines traditional psychology with both Eastern and Western spiritual practices such as Mindfulness and Centering Prayer. The aim is to promote attentiveness to the present moment, openness to experience and a new way of experiencing the world.
Contemplative psychology does not require interest or participation in any particular spiritual tradition. This approach simply draws on useful techniques from these practices that promote therapeutic benefits. Such benefits may include, among others:
- Anxiety and stress reduction
- Impulsive behavior reduction
- Self-awareness
- Improved sense of wellbeing
As a licensed psychotherapist, it is not my role to promote or represent a particular denomination or set of beliefs. However, participants are certainly welcome to explore the broader traditions that these practices are derived from if they wish to do so. For many people spirituality is a deep source of identity that underlies their motivation and meaning in life. A commitment to contemplative practice in particular can lead to a profoundly new way of seeing the world. Being open to this aspect of life can add a fuller dimension to psychotherapy, which can sustain positive change.
My Background
In addition to my education as a psychotherapist, I have a degree in theology. I also have training and experience with Seated Meditation1, Centering Prayer2 as well as knowledge of both the Enneagram3 and The Twelve Steps4, which also harmonize with contemplative practice. Personally, and professionally, I recognize and value the spiritual dimension of life. For clients who are open to it, I am happy to incorporate a holistic view of mind, body, and spirit into psychotherapy.
My primary goal is to help each client discover the particular meaning of his or her unique journey, which can lead to greater fulfillment and a hopeful future. All backgrounds and traditions are respected.
Contact:
(612) 991-5798
steven@minneapolistherapy.com
