What is contemplative counseling?

I find it helpful to consider contemplation as Richard Rohr describes it:

Contemplation is the practice of being fully present — in heart, mind, and body — to what is in a way that allows you to creatively respond and work toward what could be.

The words that strike a chord with me from this description include:

Practice – contemplation is an ongoing process.

Present – contemplation encourages us to let go of the past and future and be present in the NOW.

Heart, mind, and body – contemplation helps us connect with our entire being.

You – contemplation is a gift we give ourselves.

Creatively – contemplation helps us activate our unique gifts.

Respond and work – contemplation invites us to make meaningful choices.

What could be – contemplation celebrates our exploration of longing, wonder, hope, and love.

Simple, right? But, not too satisfying to our egos that wants to get it right, check it off the list, and line up under the world’s definition of success. Why? Maybe because we truly are always in process, and our egos want to land on something that feels solid … even when we know it’s only temporary.

Our egos are always with us, fighting for a sense of control, but the good news is we can always practice! Contemplation is just that … practice. Contemplation can open the door to an honest and willing exploration of our inner being. This can give us the courage to take another step toward freedom - living and moving and having our being in God.

So, what about the counseling part?

As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Spiritual Director, I am able to offer a variety of techniques, tools, strategies, and practices that may help you notice and move more freely.

For example, when you are stuck ...

• in the past or fearing the future

• in one part of your being (head, heart, body) and forgetting the importance of, and how to access, all of your being

• believing that walls, barriers, judgements do define and do confine you

• in an unhealthy identity

• feeling lost, confused, hopeless, helpless, alone, or unloved

You may ask “well, what’s the difference between contemplative counseling and regular counseling?” I suggest it is in the approach and the motivation. The approach intends to honor the inherent and unconditional wisdom of each human being, while also addressing the psychological challenges that we each face in this world. The motivation is to deepen one’s awareness, presence, and practice of love for God, self and all others.

It is my belief that all people can benefit from practicing contemplation in a relationship with a counselor and/or spiritual director. Please let me know if you are interested in learning more.