Truth’s naked radiance,

Cut off from the sense and the world,

Shines by itself.

No words for it.

-Pai-chang (720-814)

We make our way through the day with a set of assumptions and beliefs that allow us to navigate the demands and expectations of others. From the commute into work to the tantrums of our little ones. We operate with a familiar understanding of the world. Trauma can shatter our assumptive world and throw us into doubt and uncertainty as we struggle with the devastating effects of disruptive and life-changing events. When we can pause in a safe and supportive space the opportunity arises to discover the naked radiance of new truths to help us readjust and reinvest in the world that has changed in profound ways.

 

 

 Walking on willow tree roads by a river

Dappled with peach blossoms,

I look for spring light, but am everywhere lost.

Birds fly up and scatter floating catkins.

A ponderous wave of flowers sags the branches.

-Wang Wei (699-759)

There is nothing more encompassing than a depressed mood. Even waves of flowers will feel ponderous. The decision to seek professional help embodies a sense of helplessness and defeat. My clients struggle with the competing demands for relief and understanding. There are many approaches in therapy that are designed to address the symptoms. They have been proven with research to be effective interventions that provide new skills to be used to manage the ominous sense of despair and hopelessness. Psychoanalysis takes the deeper step to address the meanings of these very important experiences. The insights gained through links to basic assumptions about the self and others allows the spring light to reveal the true self. The coping skills that have been acquired become an essential part of their identity. There is an integration of joy and sorrow that allows for a balanced and mindful connection to who we are and our place in the world.

 Do not follow the ideas of others, but learn to listen to the voice within yourself. Your body and mind will become clear, and you will realize the unity of all things.

-Dogen

We cling to basic assumptions about ourselves in our daily lives. Our measure of self-worth and competence is often contingent on how others respond to our words and actions. When my clients can think about their thoughts and feelings we create a space for the light to shine. I help them to realize the essential substance which is the basic assumption about themselves. These beliefs remain outside our conscious awareness as we take on the various tasks and conflicts embedded in each day. In my office we take the backward step and find those elusive links that contribute to despair and helplessness. The insight embodies the conversation and reveals our basic perfection. Helplessness gives way to resolve, and the new light transcends despair.