When people ask me about my approach as a psychotherapist, I often say that I take a spiritual approach. This response usually requires some clarification, as the word spiritual can mean different things to different people.
First, let me clarify what I don’t mean by spiritual psychotherapy. It is not religious. In my view, religion is based on a specific faith or set of beliefs, whereas spirituality is broader and more personal. While religious individuals may be spiritual, spirituality does not require adherence to a particular religion or faith.
What Does "Spiritual" Mean?
The word spiritual relates to spirit, but this, too, can evoke different interpretations. For me, spirit refers to the non-physical aspect of our being—the deeper self that understands us beyond our everyday consciousness. Some may call it the true self, higher self, or supraconsciousness.
Interestingly, the word psychotherapy originates from the Greek: 'psyche' (soul) and 'therapeia' (healing), meaning "healing of the soul." I find this definition particularly meaningful, as it reflects the essence of therapy—helping people heal at a deep, transformative level, leading to increased self-compassion, better stress management, a clearer sense of purpose, and a more authentic connection to one’s values.
My Training and Approach
I trained in transpersonal psychotherapy and counselling. The term transpersonal refers to what extends beyond the personal—beyond the ‘I’—and into a greater awareness of self. However, this does not mean transpersonal or psycho-spiritual therapy focuses exclusively on spirituality. My training encompassed the major therapeutic approaches, including the psychodynamic, humanistic, existential and transpersonal modalities.
The Role of Spirituality in Psychotherapy
If you're seeking lasting change, I believe connecting with your true self is key. Beneath the challenges you face, who are you? What lessons are emerging? What qualities are developing within you? By accessing this deeper part of yourself, you may find an inner strength that helps you transcend your difficulties.
How This Works in Practice
I believe that every person is a unique being with an innate potential for growth. The way spirituality is incorporated depends entirely on the individual. You don’t need to identify as spiritual—or even be interested in spirituality—to benefit from this approach.
For some, therapy is about having a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space to share their story. Others may seek strategies to manage stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. Still, others may wish to address recurring patterns and deeper issues underlying their struggles.
In practical terms, a psycho-spiritual or transpersonal approach to psychotherapy often involves incorporating experiential exercises into sessions, ranging from breathwork, meditation, and visualisations, to body-based practices, mindfulness, and creative exercises such as drawing or journalling.
Most forms of psychotherapy help people become more balanced and integrated, manage stress, and find greater fulfilment. A spiritual approach can offer a deeper understanding of personal challenges, opening the door to parts of the self that may have remained hidden.
Additionally, I find that the spiritual heart—the part of us rooted in love and compassion—can help release negative emotions, allowing us to function from a place of kindness toward ourselves and others. This shift is often fundamental to experiencing greater happiness and inner peace.
In essence, a spiritual approach to psychotherapy can help you reconnect with a deeper part of yourself, fostering resilience, compassion, and a more profound sense of well-being.
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