Contemplative Psychotherapy
I studied and majored in Contemplative Psychotherapy at Naropa University. I view contemplative psychotherapy as a method that uses the present moment to explore and get to know oneself, both in relationship to self and other. In order for a psychotherapist to practice contemplative psychotherapy, it is essential for the psychotherapist to regularly engage in a contemplative, or mindfulness awareness practice, such as a mind-body awareness discipline. The reason is that mind-body awareness disciplines allow us to practice being in the present moment. They provide for us a means to continuously bring our awareness from our discursive thought process to the present moment, using the mind and body as reference points, which can allow us to see patterns in our thoughts and emotions that occur in relationship to self and others.
As I continue to develop awareness through contemplative practices, getting to know myself in all of its brilliance and neuroses, I develop more patience and kindness toward myself. Knowing and cultivating this in myself supports me in creating and providing a trusting environment for my clients to explore what they are experiencing in the moment. They can safely explore their thoughts, their feelings, and their emotions while bringing a sense of gentleness and kindness toward themselves as they realize that it is okay to experience all of these things, which is very different than the tendency to resist and push away what they are experiencing. Thus, clients can develop acceptance and compassion toward themselves, which can be extended toward others. This describes a Tibetan Buddhist concept found in contemplative psychotherapy known as maitri, which means unconditional loving kindness, in particular toward oneself. One could say that maitri is our intention in contemplative psychotherapy, along with reconnecting to our brilliant sanity and what the Buddhists call basic goodness, both of which are inherent in all of us.