Integrative/Holistic Psychotherapy
Suffering is often the result of a fragmentation or a splitting of our whole selves, our fluid core. We do this as an adaptive response. We develop defensive aspects. We compartmentalize. We hide and protect vulnerable parts. We tuck away the pain. Through this process, we develop a naturally dynamic internal structure capable of meeting an increasingly intricate world.
Yet these adaptations may become antiquated or dysfunctional. What once protected us from intolerable feelings now prevents us from moving through an important experience. The old guard’s armor becomes rusty and useless. Our more vulnerable, vital parts are forgotten, compromised, blocked, shamed, locked away. This creates a narrowing of choices, a reduction of potential pathways. Symptoms include a general lack of energy, numbness, confusion, feelings of inadequacy, isolation.
The degree in which we accept and integrate our sub-selves is the degree we find release, full fledged aliveness, a more expansive view, clarity about our purpose. This is the basis of an effective holistic psychotherapy, a systematic recognition and reintegration of our various aspects, sub-selves.
Yet these adaptations may become antiquated or dysfunctional. What once protected us from intolerable feelings now prevents us from moving through an important experience. The old guard’s armor becomes rusty and useless. Our more vulnerable, vital parts are forgotten, compromised, blocked, shamed, locked away. This creates a narrowing of choices, a reduction of potential pathways. Symptoms include a general lack of energy, numbness, confusion, feelings of inadequacy, isolation.
The degree in which we accept and integrate our sub-selves is the degree we find release, full fledged aliveness, a more expansive view, clarity about our purpose. This is the basis of an effective holistic psychotherapy, a systematic recognition and reintegration of our various aspects, sub-selves.