Shari M. Geller

Becoming Whole: A collaboration between experiential psychotherapies and mindfulness meditation / Ganz werden: Eine Zusammenarbeit von Experienziellen Psychotherapien und Achtsamkeitsmeditation / Volviéndose Pleno/a: Una Colaboración Entre Psicoterapias Experienciales y la Meditación “Mindfulness”

Abstract In this paper I compare, contrast and discuss ways in which experiential psychotherapy and mindfulness meditation can complement one another. An exploration and comparison of the two perspectives is offered, including their views of human nature, the self, and emotions. It is proposed in this paper that Mindfulness meditation can be used as an adjunct to experiential psychotherapy or as a natural extension of psychotherapeutic work. Meditation offers an opportunity to transcend the self after a healthy sense of self and needs are established through therapy. In this way, psychological development can be viewed as a preliminary and necessary step to spiritual development.