"Deep listening is the kind of listening that can help relieve the suffering of another person. You can call it compassionate listening. You listen with only one purpose: to help him or her to empty his heart." ~Thich Nhat Hanh

Contemplative Psychotherapy draws from a rich tapestry of traditions and disciplines. It combines the wisdom of ancient contemplative practices with the insights of modern psychology and neuroscience to help you achieve greater mental health and peace. By integrating talk therapy, meditation, compassionate presence, deep inquiry, and various mindful techniques, this approach cultivates a deeper awareness of oneself and one’s actions, leading to healing and profound personal growth.

Research in neuroscience has shown that contemplative psychotherapy can increase gray matter in areas of the brain associated with learning, memory, and emotional regulation. These practices can activate the relaxation response, reduce the production of stress hormones, develop greater emotional resilience and stability, and increase positive emotions.

Foundational techniques in Contemplative Psychotherapy include cultivating present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of your thoughts and feelings, developing compassionate inquiry and love towards yourself and others, increasing awareness of bodily sensations, emotions, and thoughts to foster a whole-body connection, using various breath techniques, and exploring difficult emotions and experiences with curiosity and kindness.