Ascending Psychology

25/09/2024

Too all the psychologists, therapists, psychotherapists and group facilitators out there, Dr Christopher and Dr Sierra are running a wonderful full-day workshop on the 19th of October 2024 that will explore the depths of group dynamics in process group therapy. With over 20 years of experience in facilitating group therapy, participants will be in excellent hands to explore the various dynamics that emerge and how therapists personally react and respond to those in their work. Check out the link for more info. We would love to see you there.

This advanced workshop offers a compelling exploration of the complex dynamics that define process group therapy at its most profound level.

29/07/2024

We are not contortionists! Flexibility has to be subtle and slight, helping us cognitively, emotionally, physically, and relationally. It doesn't mean collapsing into a heap, giving up, or completely surrendering. Instead, it helps us to move and flow through life without snapping when the pressure gets applied. Soften the grip and relax the body. It is safe to let go a little without losing yourself.

26/07/2024

It's a concept so many of us aspire to achieve. But what does it actually mean to be free? Is it a choice? A concept? A value? A trait? Is it contingent on finances or time? How do we express our freedoms, and does that help us to let go of our fears?

22/07/2024

Sometimes self-compassion comes in the form of a little discipline. Yes, you might be stressed and tired. Making it a priority to care for yourself in these times of chaos and change is fundamental. It doesn't require a huge investment. Good quality water, a few deep breaths, relaxing the shoulders, a good dose of fruit and veg, and a healthy sleep routine goes a VERY long way!

19/07/2024

Getting grounded doesn't require fancy gadgets or expensive gimmicks. It requires the awareness that you are psychologically, emotionally, physically or spiritually out of balance. It requires a willingness to reconnect with your body and the present moment. Whether you bring your awareness to the breath, walk barefoot on the grass, sit with your back against a tree, or do some gentle stretching - it doesn't matter. But without these simple grounding practices, we can be like trees without roots trying to stand tall in the wind.

16/07/2024

It is pretty reactive out there in the wild right now as people experience strong feelings they often don't understand. There is nothing necessarily wrong with big emotions - they are usually automatic and involve the body, mind, and soul being hijacked by powerful chemicals. That's not the problem. Difficulties arise both internally and relationally when we don't understand how to reflect on our emotions and examine what they might be communicating.

Fear, anger, envy, sadness, joy, peace, pain, and frustration all communicate important information about who we are and what we need. If we engage and commit to this reflective practice, our self-awareness blossoms and we give ourselves the opportunity to start responding to situations. This can deepen opportunities for connection, understanding, and empathy. Without this, it can be fairly primal and reactive which makes us much more vulnerable to aggression or withdrawal.

11/07/2024

Are you and your partner facing challenges that seem hard to overcome on your own? Cassandra, our Gottman trained Clinical Psychologist is available for relationship counselling, offering a safe and supportive space to address and resolve issues that are keeping you stuck.

🔹 Improve Communication
🔹 Rebuild Trust
🔹 Enhance Emotional Connection
🔹 Manage Conflict Effectively

Addressing relationship issues early can prevent misunderstandings from escalating and pave the way for a healthier, happier partnership. Don’t wait for problems to grow – take the first step towards healing and strengthening your relationship today.

📅 Book your session now and start your journey towards a stronger bond.

📞 Contact us on (02) 6693 2112 or visit our website to learn more.

30/06/2024

il·​lu·​mi·​na·​tion il-ˌü-mə-ˈnā-shən. To supply or brighten with light; light up. To make lucid or clear; Throw light on (a subject). Synonyms: elucidate, explain, clarify.

It is a beautiful, confronting, liberating, painful, chaotic, and healing process. It requires courage and is made easier with support - particularly when delving into the crevasses of our instincts and pain.

With love,
Sarah x

28/06/2024

Do we have any other option than to trust in the process? There is only so much we can control, know, predict, or plan for right! Surrendering to the process is absolutely necessary once we have accounted for all our ducks so to speak. It is then a matter of trusting that irrespective of the outcome, we will continue in some form on this wild journey called life. Yes - we are in the driver's seat but the road ahead is a real mystery. That is both terrifying and exciting.

With love,
Sarah x

26/06/2024

Is it me or have we lost the art of being interested in ideas or people who see and experience the world differently? We have become so polarized, and it is hurting our communities. We need to belong, and as part of this we need to learn to tolerate various opinions and facts. The algorithms don't help in this technological age, feeding us information that resonates while attacking alternative perspectives with derogatory slander.

We are all vulnerable to feelings of agitation when we are confronted with polarizing perspectives that are valid. Bearing this in mind, is it time that we challenge ourselves to manage the agitation, rather than eradicate the alternative perspective or people? Do we need to start seeing things from different angles to learn and grow as people? I mean, do any of us really have all the answers?

With love,
Sarah x