When many people hear psychotherapy, they still have the image of Freud analyzing someone’s words as they lay on a couch. While talk therapy has its place, it is certainly not the only way of working, and often not as efficient. Hakomi can bypass the analytical logic approach we often default to on our own, and get to some of the core in an experiential way.

In my own personal experience, I knew why certain events in my life made me unhappy. However, knowing logical reasons around the events did nothing to change my beliefs about myself. Through Hakomi, I developed a new relationship with myself that is much less critical, more relaxed, and more fulfilled.

What is Hakomi?

Hakomi is a mindful approach to therapy that facilitates change in an experiential way. It works with what is present, without always needing the story. It invites the wisdom of the body and emotions in a more holistic way than simply talking about the problem.

Hakomi trusts in the innate tendency toward healing. Emotional wounds can find their own path to healing if given enough of a safe environment where they are welcome to show up as they are, without having to make sense.

Hakomi invites compassionate curiosity to explore and change core beliefs that get in our way. Acceptance, emotional safety, being good enough, and the ability to trust are common themes that can grow through this work.

What does Hakomi look like?

Since Hakomi is an exploration, there is room for creativity in sessions. As much of the work is done in mindfulness, many clients opt to work with eyes closed so they can be attentive to their own experience, rather than distracted by conversation.

Maybe we start by exploring the color, shape, or temperature of your pain. Maybe we explore sensations of protection and safety with practical experiments. Maybe we study a subtle gesture your body repeats when asked for something.

The body shares information with us all the time. I can help you slow down and listen to those messages, and create new experiences to feel more whole and at peace.

Hakomi is one method I use in counseling.