Nowadays we have a large number of options to choose from when going to therapy. It can be really complex to know which one best fits our way of being and understanding the world, as well as our specific needs and problems at the moment.
Throughout this article we will see how transpersonal therapy works.
Transpersonal therapy is a branch of psychology that is characterized by integrating spiritual and transcendental aspects in relation to the human experience. The “transpersonal” concept that gives it its name refers to the fact that it goes “beyond” personal aspects. Problems and difficulties are valued as opportunities for growth and learning.
That is to say, They go beyond aspects related to the “I” and focus on the observation of a more significant reality. It is not explored and worked solely for the well-being of the individual but rather its connection to “something greater” is taken into account. In this sense, we can talk about the connection with nature, the cosmos, the spiritual world, etc.
It is born from humanistic psychology and, therefore, understands the human being as a whole (body, emotions, mind, spirit). The aim is for the person to connect with their true essence through access to higher states of consciousness. To do this, tools are used that allow this access to the “higher self” and, in this way, the integration of spirituality in addition to healing.
As we mentioned previously, what lays the foundations of transpersonal therapy is the union between the psychological and spiritual aspects that make up human beings. Spirituality is considered key to the human experience. For this reason, we work on overcoming the ego with the aim of connecting with the essential identity.
Another important characteristic to take into account is the work that is done with altered (or higher) states of consciousness. These are achieved through the practice of tools such as meditation, sleep, hypnosis and/or regression therapies, breathing (especially holotropic), visualization, etc.
How does transpersonal therapy work?
It is important to highlight that transpersonal therapy gives special importance to the person’s context. That is, aspects such as the culture, beliefs and life history of each individual are taken into account.
If the person arrives with a strong emotional imbalance, first this intense discomfort is addressed. When the person has stabilized, the process continues. Three phases have been described and are explained in more detail below.
First stage: self-knowledge
In this first point of the process, we work with the person to become aware of themselves and their internal processes. The objective is to know the functioning of one’s own ego. The observation of mental, behavioral, emotional and relational patterns allows us to understand in greater depth the internal conflicts that generate discomfort and suffering. In addition, the situation that the person is experiencing is presented as an opportunity for learning and growth.
Second stage: relativization of the ego
In this second phase of the process, the aim is for the person to create new internal patterns that allow them to modify their way of understanding life and the things that happen to them. The person becomes an active element in the creation of his or her reality since the interpretation we make of events is what marks our response).
Once all the personal work has been done, it is possible that the work will focus on removing ego problems to focus on the expansion of consciousness. This is how the person opens to the transcendental and spiritual experiences of existence. The aim is for the person to integrate this work done as something more of their daily life, not isolated experiences. This creates a balance between the spiritual and the everyday.
Benefits and limitations
It is clear that this type of intervention is not going to fit the needs of all people, just as no approach does because there are no universal solutions. The main limitations that have been found are that, first of all, the person’s willingness to explore the spiritual realm is needed. Secondly, it is considered ineffective with serious mental disorders.
As for the benefits that have been reported, they are mainly related to personal and, of course, spiritual growth. Furthermore, people who have carried out this type of intervention report a decrease in anxiety related to the most existential aspects (purpose of life and death, etc.).
Finally, it is considered that the connection with the higher self allows you to resolve internal conflicts and, in this way, live more consciously and fully.
