Wisdom & Freedom: Existential Insights for Aging Well
Explore how existential therapy can aid older people in navigating aging while addressing societal expectations, shifting roles, and existential fears. Finding meaning, embracing freedom and choice, and fostering a deeper self-understanding can help people to feel empowered in embracing aging with resilience, purpose, and peace.
The Importance of Dreamwork in Psychotherapy
Explore the enigma of dreams and their significance with insights inspired by C. G. Jung's transpersonal psychology. Discover the transformative power of dream analysis, emphasizing symbolic themes and mythic connections. Unearth a personal journey through the unconscious, guided by practical tips for meaningful dream work. Elevate your understanding and enrich your therapeutic exploration.
On Minority Stress Theory & Queer Mental Health
Explore the impacts of minority stress on the LGBTQ+ community and discover the factors that contribute to resilience. Learn how societal attitudes affect mental health, and find guidance on overcoming challenges with authenticity, mindfulness, and self-compassion.
What is Contemplative Psychotherapy?
Buddhist legend tells of Prince Siddhartha's quest for enlightenment. He abandoned his palace, faced inner struggles, and achieved enlightenment, inspiring others. Around 400 BCE, he passed away, and Tibetan Buddhist schools later emphasized inherent enlightenment. Chögyam Trungpa coined "Brilliant Sanity," embracing these innate qualities. Contemplative psychotherapy fosters client confidence by recognizing their already-existing wholeness.
Repairing the Trauma of Growing Up Gay
Gay men, like many marginalized groups, face higher rates of mental health challenges due to lifelong stigma and discrimination. Ilan Meyer's "minority stress theory" attributes these struggles to societal oppression. Alan Downs' book, "The Velvet Rage," suggests that instead of avoiding shame, gay men should confront it through therapy, self-compassion practices, and affirming spiritual traditions for lasting healing.
Moving Beyond Psychotropics & “Patch-Up Therapy”
A Bloomberg opinion article questions the effectiveness of SSRIs, suggesting that their positive effects are largely attributed to the placebo effect. Critics argue that these drugs lack substantial scientific backing and may lead to addiction and negative mental health outcomes. Psychotherapists should focus on addressing underlying causes, such as societal factors, and offer clients the space to explore their existential situation for genuine healing and peace.