Spiritual counseling takes many forms, but they all draw from the same source. There is no single “right” path — and that is the point. A skilled counselor works eclectically and inclusively, drawing from whichever approaches genuinely fit the person sitting in front of them. This is why the model is often called integrative.
Why the Body Matters
More and more, therapy is leaning toward somatic approaches — helping people actually listen to their body rather than only talking about what is happening in the mind. In yoga philosophy, the energies we work with every day are understood in layers:
- Physical
- Mental
- Emotional
- Energetic
- Cellular
- DNA
- Atomic
- Subatomic
These layers work like the rings of an onion: distinct, but all connected, and all influencing one another.
People are ready to change at different rates, and that is fine. But once someone has participated in hypnotherapy, something shifts — they have had a direct, felt experience of their own energy. That experience is what helps a person get in touch with their true self. As they begin to unify rather than feel separated, they gradually become able to feel safe enough to make conscious choices.
Spirituality is the source. Embodiment is how we choose to live it.
Respect for Belief Systems
Many people arrive with a belief system that has been passed down through their family and culture. That is always meant to be respected. The more we as providers — and as peers — understand different belief systems, spiritualities, meditations, and religions, the more room we have to develop our own spirituality.
Certain ethical principles do this work across traditions. The Yamas and Niyamas — yoga’s ethical guidelines — are consistent with resolving inner conflict and building the capacity to discern and use critical thinking rather than react to unconscious patterns. This aligns with the Ericksonian utilization technique (meeting the person exactly where they are and using what they bring), and with Carl Rogers’ person-centered approach of unconditional positive regard.
My book, Conscious Integrative Therapy, devotes chapters to this in much more detail — with resources, suggestions, and practical guidance. It is available on Amazon, and you can find the link on this website.
Susan receives income from her book. Read the author disclosure.
The Experiential Journey
Spirituality is an experiential journey, not a destination. Along the way we learn a great many of life’s lessons. There’s an old saying that captures this well: “Those that say they know, don’t — and those that say they don’t know, do.”
Each person has their own individual experience with spirituality. Spending time alone with oneself — being encouraged to meditate on one’s own self rather than only listening to others — helps a person come into alignment. That alignment makes life more streamlined and more effective. It can help a person maintain physical and mental health, which in these times is not always a given.
Ready to explore this work for yourself? Book a TrancePlan session or learn more about how Conscious Integrative Therapy can support your journey.