Spiritual Emergency

Abstract

This article discusses the concept of spiritual emergency and addresses the creative, transformative possibilities inherent in some of humankind's most chaotic and challenging psychospiritual events. These events may often seem to manifest as psychopathology and tend to be denigrated and interrupted by psychotherapeutic orthodoxy. This article invites these events into a de-pathologized, more mainstream consideration based on their prevalence and value, both to the individual and to the larger society. Particular consideration is given to three varieties of spiritual emergency: the mystical/ visionary experience, the psychotic experience, and the shamanic experience. The implications for psychotherapeutic work are discussed with regard to the therapist's attitudes toward spiritual emergencies and with regard to selected therapeutic approaches and interventions. May I never use my reason against truth. -Hasidic prayer

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