Orientation Towards Phenomenology
Questions asked and language chosen invite client self-exploration and expression of their present inner world.
This approach is different from many popular psychotherapeutic approaches such as manualized behavioural approaches that follow a prescribed order and framework (e.g., Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and is also a departure from “talk therapy” in which the health professional often leads or guides a verbal dialogue to pursue predetermined therapeutic objectives with less attention placed upon to emergent non-verbal aspects of lived experience in relationships.
A more detailed explanation of inquiry practice in keeping with this orientation will be discussed in the coming modules.
Activity
Invitational language is essential, since it communicates choice, supporting the participant to stay attuned with what is present and true for them. This orientation aligns with empowering and trusting the ‘inner healing process’ of the client. When working with clients’ difficult emotions, what are some types of invitational language that can be used?
The Numinus Perspective
At Numinus, we maintain that a trauma-informed inner-directed approach (wherein a health professional hones the skill of knowing when and where it is appropriate to be more directive in order to interrupt entrenched toxic trauma-driven patterns) is essential across the spectrum of psychedelic-assisted therapy, particularly during Medicine Sessions.