Sydnor Sikes, Ph.D., CGP
Board Certified Clinical Psychologist |
Approach to Spiritual Healing
My earlier assertion that “change happens in relationship” can be taken to another level when the relationship is the one between you and the Divine Presence. Though certainly healing can occur in an encounter solely between you and the Divine, the presence of a human container is still often very important and helpful. In a similar way to what I described above, a therapist with the appropriate training can hold the space and guide the client into deeper levels of the heart, which can be described as the soul and spirit. Some of the beliefs and pictures (that come from memory or imagination) that block us from our divine selves and from God are stored in the body. In an attempt to defend ourselves from the pain that inevitably happens in life, we increasingly are drawn into the outer world and lose awareness of the inner world of peace, beauty, love, etc. As we listen to the voices of our scared/hurt selves, we establish beliefs such as “I’m alone,” “I’m damaged,” “I’m not good enough,” or “I don’t deserve love.” In a secure relationship, we can put our attention into the feelings and sensations in the body which hold the painful memories and destructive beliefs, and we can open them for exploration and healing.
I have heard much evidence to suggest that physical suffering is sometimes a reflection of spiritual illness, and that healing at the deeper levels can support one’s physical recovery, even from disease (though in the case of a physical illness or injury, I would encourage you to seek medical advice and treatment as well as looking into the subtle spiritual causes). Spiritual healing (sometimes called energy healing) occurs when one opens up what is in need of healing, physical or emotional, to the Divine Presence, by invoking the name of God, by holding at the same time the awareness of the pain and the awareness of God’s response to you. It is showing God your view of things (“I’m worthless”) but being willing to get a second opinion, willing to listen deeply to the voice of Love. Attending the Sufi University taught me that healing, moving closer to God, and purifying the heart of illusionary pictures and attachments are the same thing.
If we include spiritual healing in our work (at your request) I will continue to make my psychological knowledge available to you. I find my psychological and my spiritual understandings very compatible, and some clients choose to have a combination of approaches. Or I would also be happy to help you locate other spiritual resources. Some people who would like some help are not necessarily in need of psychotherapy. I’m very impressed with the work of several other energy healers in Austin, notably my son-in-law John Howard (www.austinenergyhealing.com), who is a gifted spiritual teacher.
| Please feel free to contact me at 512-469-0582 for more information about my practice or to schedule a session. |
| 508 Deep Eddy Avenue Austin, TX 78703 512-469-0582 |