Hello, I’m Lisa and I’m studying Transpersonal Counselling with The Ikon Institute. As part of the course we are required to complete Placement hours and so I’m pleased to sayI will be offering free counselling sessions at YogaSol.
What opportunities does this create for the YogaSol community?
This means thatI will be available to meet with clients on a one to one basis at YogaSol to share the knowledge and skills I have gained through my studies. Participants are invited to meet with me to talk about personal issues or to explore areas of their life in a safe and confidential space.
What is Transpersonal Counselling and how might it differ from other styles of counselling that we may have experienced in the past?
Transpersonal Counselling is about integrating the mind, body and spirit. It is very client-centred. It goes beyond the persona and taps into the unseen parts of you that may hold the key to your healing. It begins with talking therapy in a safe and secure space where you can talk about your feelings and concerns and explore ways to find meaning, healing and peace. Whilst some therapists give advice and direction on what the client should do to fix their problems, Transpersonal Counselling is about meeting the client where they are in their journey and helping them find their inner wisdom. This is done through honouring the client’s story with empathy and respect.
It sounds like there may be similarities to the yogic path. Does Transpersonal Counselling enhance yoga and meditation practice?
Yes, I believe it does. Along with allowing people the space and time to explore their conscious world through speaking their truth, Transpersonal Counselling incorporates areas of meditation, chakra work and other body wisdom processes. Therefore this kind of counselling adds another dimension of self-exploration to a yoga and meditation practice and so they complement each other.
What is your background and what lead you to Transpersonal Counselling?
I’m from New Zealand originally. I have university qualifications in Arts and Education including courses in Psychology and Counselling. I have always been interested in other cultures and I have travelled fairly extensively. I worked in international education for many years as a teacher of English as a Second Language. A few years ago I realised that I needed a career change and decided to follow my heart and study Counselling. I had received help with my own journey from a wonderful counsellor who used Transpersonal methods and so I knew this was the kind of therapy I wanted to learn more about in order to help others.
What is it that appeals to you about Transpersonal Counselling and how has it helped you?
Firstly I think that counselling is a very individual thing and you have to find what resonates with you. There is much to be learned from a wide range of therapeutic styles and paradigms, but I believe all effective counselling begins with respect, empathy and being truly heard. The Transpersonal approach appeals to me because it recognises that we are really spiritual beings having a human experience. I believe in honouring all cultural and spiritual beliefs and acknowledge that your journey is unique. I also believe that even though we can strive to grow as individuals we are all connected ultimately. The Transpersonal style honours each individual’s story. It incorporates processes that expand our consciousness and allow us to find meaning and truth.This kind of counselling has helped me understand my own personal journey and explore my story whilst honouring my truth. It has helped me expand my awareness physically, mentally and spiritually and find new ways to access my inner wisdom.
How long will you be at YogaSol and will the sessions always be free of charge?
I have a set number of hours to complete in my Placement hours and I will be working at other locations as well as YogaSol. I’m expecting to be at YogaSol until June 2018, but it may be longer. Whilst I am offering sessions as a Placement student the sessions will remain free of charge.