Transpersonal psychology emerged in the 1960s and can be described as creating a bridge between psychology and spiritual practice. It focuses on spirituality and attempts to explore and understand consciousness while focusing on developing our full potential as human beings. The term ‘transpersonal’ means ‘beyond the personal’ and as such transpersonal therapy reflects core values such as exploring human growth, transcendence, mystical experiences, enlightenment and access to higher wisdom.
Transpersonal therapy typically looks beyond behavioural and humanistic psychology and rather focuses on the person and their past experiences in a holistic light. All experiences are considered to be valuable and a chance for spiritual development. Crisis, illness and life’s difficulties are placed within this wider context. Past and present troubles are considered to be fundamental to the process of reaching our full potential, rather than experiences that ought to be resolved or removed.
This isn’t to say that other psychological branches are ignored; indeed, the need to address basic psychological development first is paramount and should not be avoided in the name of spiritual growth. Thus, contemporary psychology is integrated with spiritual therapy, providing a complete, holistic solution.
What is a Transpersonal Therapist?
To a transpersonal therapist, whatever is happening now and has happened in the past should be viewed as an opportunity for positive, holistic growth. The therapist must become equal with their client and connect with them consciously, by sharing their experiences with them during therapy. During this state of shared consciousness, a connection can be made between therapist and client, which is a fundamental element of transpersonal therapy. This allows for empathy and insight on the part of the therapist while maintaining an analytical stance from which they are able to draw conclusions and form a therapy plan. The therapist must be open-minded, present and self-aware, setting the stage for spiritual healing and growth.
The transpersonal counsellor can then draw on his or her experience and training, and guide the client on their therapeutic journey utilising a number of techniques, such as:
- Breathwork
- Journal writing
- Goal setting
- Yoga therapy
- Art therapy
- Meditation
- Dreamwork
- Body awareness
- Guided visualisation
Who might benefit from Transpersonal Therapy?
People struggling with phobias, anxiety, depression, and addictions may particularly benefit from transpersonal therapy as these psychological conditions are often considered to have a spiritual component that needs to be addressed. Substance disorders, for example, are largely viewed as an attempt to fill a spiritual void; substance abuse may be driven by the need to shift out of a waking state of consciousness into a non-rational consciousness.
Anyone who considers spirituality to be an important aspect of their lives would be well suited to transpersonal therapy. This may include people who do not consider themselves to be spiritual, but for whom personal and moral growth is important, or are concerned with life’s meaning and purpose. Anyone who is finding that their ability to appreciate their life and make the most out of their experiences is compromised may well find transpersonal therapy techniques to be of benefit.
What are the outcomes of Transpersonal Therapy?
Outcomes of transpersonal therapy include enhanced spiritual connection, a greater ability to connect to others and a better appreciation for life’s purpose and meaning. A person who has undergone this type of therapy often feels more awake, alive and whole than ever before. Clients often establish a feeling of inner peace, and a sense of calm and are better able to balance mental, emotional and physical energies, along with a more positive outlook and improved self-confidence.