Emotions in Therapy
Emotion is a physiological response. It is a “gut feeling”, a visceral feeling which has a somatic (physically felt) marker such as clenched fist, jaw tension or a headache.
Emotion readies us to act if the need arises. It is not logical, nor
does it arrive in linear thought.
Emotion is a powerful motivator of human behavior and guides us to choose between different course of action. It provides a tendency to avoid anything appraised as bad and approach what is appraised as good or beneficial.
Emotion is not action. It is a tendency to act. Emotion is an innate part of our human make up. It has evolved over time from primitive man and has contributed to human survival.
My approach to psychotherapy is to provide the client with an experience of emotion such that in sessions, the client actively experiences emotion. The goal is for the client to become fully aware of the internal physical experience of the full range of emotions. Able to face one’s emotions, the person is empowered to use these feelings productively. To enhance a feeling of wellbeing or closeness to others.
Additional Information
Confidentiality
Contents of sessions are confidential. As is the information that a particular client is following a course of therapy.
Transference
The relationship with the therapist in psychotherapy is a centerpiece. The technical term for the relationship is called transference.
Root Causes of Problems
At the root of psychological discomfort is the human tendency
to focus away from painful anxiety-provoking disturbance.