Cap'n Crunch approves this message.

March 14, 2006 11:33 AM

Experiences with transpersonal / meditative therapy?

I'm about to re-enter therapy after about six years or so, for a variety of depression-related issues. In the past I've been unsatisfied with traditional psychologists and medication-based therapies, so I'm going to try out a counselor who focuses on transpersonal and meditative therapy. I'm not ruling out future medication, and I understand that all therapies are dependent on a working relationship between therapist and client. With that in mind, do any of you have experience with this kind of therapy? What can I expect from my first few sessions, and how does the experience differ from traditional psychotherapy and/or cognitive-behavioral therapy? Thanks in advance.

posted by Errant to health & fitness (1 comment total)

IANAD. I also don't have any experience with meditative therapy per se, but can offer a couple of comments on meditation in general.

First of all, it's hard work -- but while you'll struggle to get the motivation to sit and also struggle with the practice at first, you'll see progress if you stick with it - kinda like going to the gym in that way.

Second of all, books, et cetera, can help, but are no substitute for a teacher (therapist in this case) who you can talk with and get instructions from. That said, this book, Genuine Happiness, is a great one. It's written by a Buddhist and from a Buddhist perspective, but you can get a lot from it regardless of your faith (or lack thereof).

Third, take time to get your posture right. Meditation is like exercising -- if you're slouching, et cetera, for long periods every day, you can hurt yourself!

Don't expect meditation to change your world. It is what it is. What it can help you do is realize that your thoughts and emotions are impermanent -- they rise and fall just like anything else. It can help you gain perspective. The goal isn't to stay in meditation all day long but rather to put the things you learn while meditating into practice through the rest of your everyday life.

Depression sucks, and I wish you all the best in beating it!
posted by gage at 6:15 PM on March 14, 2006