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International Journal of Emergency Mental Health and Human Resilience | ISSN: 1522-4821 | Volume: 20
July 25-26, 2018 | Vancouver, Canada
Psychiatric & Mental Health Nursing
14
th
World Congress on
Mental Health and Wellbeing
5
th
World Congress on
&
Transpersonal psychology adds a new dimension to psychological studies and counseling
Donna Golding
Golding Transpersonal Psychology and Education, Australia
T
ranspersonal psychology emerged from earlier branches of psychology and incorporates both Eastern and Western philosophies.
Applying both quantitative and qualitative research methods, it is a progressive branch of psychology that incorporates spiritual
dimensions of existence in the scientific study of human beings. Mind, spirituality and higher states of consciousness are the main
focus within transpersonal psychology. Within this context, spirituality refers to a universal dimension that is both transcendent and
imminent. When I did my PhD research I found that many people had difficulty conceptualizing spirituality while also finding that
those who were open to spirituality usually had better well-being. There are various spiritual questionnaires, inventories and charts
that can be used to assess the client’s perceived relevance of spirituality in their life. These can help reveal the client’s self-identity and
understanding of reality and be a tool toward healing. Counselling for transpersonal development has application for the individual
psychologically, emotionally, physically; for their relationships and also for society at large. The transpersonal orientation in therapy is
particularly suited for clients that present with a spiritual crisis, including fear associated with spiritual experiences, shock associated
with coming to a new or different understanding of reality, and the impact it can have on their self-concept and their relationships. It
can also be helpful for bereavement and coming to terms with the death of a loved one. Moreover, it may help clients be more at peace
regarding their own mortality. Transpersonal approaches to counselling and therapy can be beneficial for many typical psychological
issues including anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, relationship and family conflict, blocked emotions
and recurring negative thinking, to name a few. Embracing a holistic approach to wellbeing, this presentation provides support for
including Transpersonal Psychology as therapeutically functional and valuable.
donna@drdonnagolding.com.auIJEMHHR 2018, Volume: 20
DOI: 10.4172/1522-4821-C3-018