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QUANTUM PSYCHOLOGY 1

Quantum Psychology

Tasha Dufrene

HSJ5351.1 Final Integrative Project

John F. Kennedy University

Winter 2012


Abstract

Quantum psychology describes how the science of quantum physics can be applied to

psychotherapy for creating mental, emotional, and neuropsychological shifts. The literature

review discusses the connection between science and spirituality and introduces

psychotherapeutic modalities that include bioenergetics, mindfulness based therapies, Psych-K,

HeartMath coherence technique, and Self-Relations therapy.

Keywords: quantum, energy, chi, subconscious, morphogenetic fields, mind, thoughts, emotions,

transformation


Contents

Introduction 4-5

Quantum Mechanics 6

The Subconscious 6-7

Destructive Thoughts and Emotions 8-9

Theories: 10Emoto, Masaru/ Vibrational Frequencies 10Dalrymple, Ron/ Quantum Psychology 11Morphogenetic Fields 11-12

Therapeutic Modalities: 13Bioenergetics 14-16Mindfulness Practice 17-18Coherence Technique 19-22Psych-K 23-25Self-Relations 26-28

Case Studies 29-34

Conclusion 35

References 36-37


Introduction

Quantum psychology refers to shifting one's attitudes and thoughts that are causing

dysfunction so that individuals can live from a space of coherence and well-being. Quantum

counseling has the ability to bring awareness to the individual's innate connection to the core

essence of one's self, which could also be called the quantum self. The quantum self is

considered infinite, abundant, and limitless. This can be explained through science, particularly

through quantum physics. Quantum physics is a branch of science that investigates the

phenomenon of energy and matter; it is known to contain valuable information to the

fundamental nature and laws of the Universe. Human beings are seen as an extension of

Universal or source energy. Therefore, thoughts and emotions are energetic expressions of

human consciousness. In quantum psychology, the imbalance or disruption of this free flow of

energy is seen as the fundamental cause of emotional and mental affliction.

The emphasis is on healing and releasing disruptive patterns of thoughts and behaviors.

The transformation begins to take place when the client begins to move through his afflictions

and attune his energy to building skills in the present moment that lead to active choices aligned

with the client's true intentions.

I became engaged in this topic due to my own process of wanting to transform my

attitudes, thoughts, beliefs, and ways of relating to myself and others that interfered with my

well-being. I use the term transformation to describe one state of being to another, such as the

transformation of negative thinking to a place of neutrality. A neutral state is one that is neither


positive or negative. It is a space in which the individual can see there is choice and choose to

respond with a different response. This transformation can take place in the physical, energetic,

emotional, and mental bodies.

What I discovered in my own process is that many obstacles were preventing me from

being where I wanted to be in my life. There were times when I felt I was living from a space of

greater well-being and then I'd regress to an old subconscious program that caused me a great

deal of suffering. I became curious about how that happened. This took me on a journey that

led me into looking deeper at my neglected and wounded parts, so that I could relate to them in

healthy ways that didn't sabotage my well-being.

As I begin to learn how to nourish and be kind to myself, I started to shift the way that I

viewed life situations. When I discuss the process of transformation, I am not referring to

dissociating from the wounded parts, negative thoughts and feelings, or denying them. The

transformation takes place by tending to those parts and shifting the relationship we have with

them. I'm still a work in progress, but combining these quantum principles to my life and

surrounding myself with supportive and loving others have helped me to make shifts in the way

that I view myself and the world around me. I notice that when I am not living from a place of

harmony and well-being that I feel out of alignment with my life force and feel bad.

My intention has been to understand this from a scientific or clinical framework. I was

drawn to this topic so that I could understand and describe abstract healing modalities from a

clinical perspective. I also wanted to understand energetic and spiritual transformations so that I

could explain it to others and use it in my practice as a psychotherapist.


Quantum Mechanics

What is quantum mechanics? Quantum means something that can be quantified or

measured and physics studies energy and matter and the relationship between them. Energy is

known as the invisible field that gives matter its shape. This invisible field has been referred to

as Spirit; energy and spirit often have the same definition (Gilligan,S., p.xxi). This is relevant

because our thoughts are energy that shape the matter of our bodies. The way that your beliefs

about life actually shape your life becomes a level of physics. In 1925 physics changed their

belief system about the universe from a material universe to an energy based universe (Lipton,

B., 2005). Physics said the universe is based on energy, not matter. Even now conventional

medicine is still basing the universe on matter and has not really brought in the nature of

quantum mechanics and is therefore no longer scientific (Lipton, 2005). Since everything

consists of energy and is changeable, belief systems that no longer serve us can be challenged

and shifted.

The Subconscious

Thoughts, the mind's energy, directly influence the way the biological brain control's the

body's physiology. Just thinking positive thoughts isn't enough because the subconscious and

conscious minds have to work together; they are interdependent. The conscious mind is creative

and can conjure up positive thoughts, but the sub-conscious mind is derived from stimulus

response programming or conditioning. It is strictly habitual. Your best efforts to be conscious


and change your life will not work if the subconscious programs believe otherwise. If your

subconscious mind believes it won't happen for you, regardless of the effort from the conscious

mind, you won't be able to make the necessary changes. The good news is that there are several

techniques that are geared towards transforming subconscious programming. One of these that

we will discuss in the therapeutic modalities section, is Psych-K.

The mind's subconscious development begins in early childhood. Young children

observe their environment and download the information from their parents into their

subconscious mind and as a result the parent's behavior and beliefs become their own. These

beliefs become hardwired into the subconscious mind. The subconscious mind can be thought of

as a programmable hard drive into which life experiences are downloaded. When a stimulus is

received into the body's physiological system, it will automatically engage in a behavioral

response that was learned when the signal was first experienced. The subconscious mind also

protects us and runs on auto-pilot.

For example, if an object flies near your eye, your conscious mind may not be able to

respond, but your subconscious mind will cause the eye to blink. Cells become programmed via

parental and societal attitudes, values, and beliefs that we operate from at a subconscious level.

Biology of belief states that 95% of our cognitive activity is subconscious (Lipton, 2005). As

adults we spend most of our time subconsciously responding to life rather than consciously

creating it. Affirmations and attempts to change negative thought patterns fail because they don't

get to the root of the subconscious belief. However, now there is research that shows us that

subconscious beliefs can be challenged and reprogrammed (Lipton, 2005). Instead of individuals

responding to defaulted subconscious programming that is causing disruptive or self-defeating


experiences in one's life, subconscious beliefs can reprogrammed to become more congruent

with our true values that correspond to our mental and emotional well-being. Neuroscience is

becoming more advanced in proving how the brain can rewire itself (McGaugh, J. L.,

Weinberger, N. M., & Lynch, G., 1995).

Destructive Thoughts and Emotions

Suffering of many types usually bring people into psychotherapy. One type of

psychological suffering is known to be caused due to destructive thoughts and emotions.

Destructive emotions are those that are harmful to one's self or others (Goleman, D., 2003).

Buddhist terminology classifies destructive emotions as those that disrupt the mind's equilibrium.

The mind is naturally calm, and when a destructive thought or emotions arise it disrupts the

equilibrium and sense of well-being. The brain cannot distinguish between emotion and thought.

Every region in the brain that plays a role in emotions have been connected to aspects of

cognition (Goleman, p.157-59).

One way to recognize the source of mental affliction is to notice the thought associated

with the affliction when it arises. This acknowledgement can come from a state of curiosity

instead of from a state of self-criticism. This cultivates an attitude of emergence and freedom

from affliction. Some negative emotions serve a purpose, but can become harmful if they are too

excessive, engulfing, or deficient.

It is a human occurrence to experience disruptive emotions. It is when they begin to

affect relationships, interfere with daily living, and cause harm to the self or others that they can


become problematic. There are therapeutic practices that we will discuss later that can help

individual's manage destructive emotions by first noticing the emotion and then choosing options

to deal with the situation effectively.

How does this relate to quantum psychology? Quantum physics breaks down all matter

into smaller and smaller particles that ultimately are expressed in waves. Each of these waves

vibrates at various frequencies. Individuals who wish to challenge and shift destructive thoughts

and emotions can see these thoughts and emotions as waves of energy that vibrate at different

frequencies.

Later, we will see how Emoto's theory describes thoughts that generate feelings that

make us feel good have a different frequency than thoughts that generate feelings that make us

feel bad. Recognizing these waves of thought can reduce chaos and allow us the ability to focus

on one thing or situation. We can observe a situation or thing with a relaxed mind and shift our

focus or frequency.

This is not about dispelling the negative emotion, it is about being free from an erroneous

concept of how you respond to the arising thought and the way of perceiving reality. It is about

undoing distorted perceptions or harmful perceptions. Emotions, such as anger, can be

transformed into affirmative action. We may notice something that angers us, which may give us

the fuel to take affirmative action. Some anger may be fueled by biased perception, in which a

perception may be distorted, and it has the ability to be seen in a different context that reduces

suffering of the individual.


Psychological, Energetic, and Scientific Theories of Transformations

We've discussed some of the dynamics involved with acknowledging and shifting

destructive thoughts and emotions. Now, we'll explore this subject further from other

perspectives and theories. A well known scientist, Masaru Emoto (2004) emphasizes that the

entire universe is in a state of vibration and each thing generates its own unique frequency. His

years of research have shown him that this is the fundamental state of the universe.

Quantum mechanics views matter as nothing more than vibration. When substances are

separated into their most tiny parts, it is clear that all that exists is made of particles and waves.

Therefore, people and environments emit vibrational frequencies. Emotions and thoughts are of

vibrational frequency. Emoto discovered that water can mirror vibrational states which can be

physically seen in crystalized form. In his book, Messages in Water (2004), he shows images of

crystals that have been submitted to both positive and negative thoughts.

It can be unpleasant and uncomfortable to not have the ability to be free of negative

thoughts and feelings. However, with what is known about the principles of vibration, the

method towards freedom becomes clearer. Emitting a positive or opposite vibration of the

negative thought or emotion clears the negative because by combining two opposite waves the

negative vibration dissipates (Emoto, p.73). For every negative emotion there is an opposite

positive antidote.

Hate Gratitude Anxiety Peace

Anger Kindness Fear Courage


Psychologist Dr. Ron Dalrymple (1989) describes the powerful components of quantum

psychology in simple terms. The Mind is an energy field that transcends the physical brain. The

mind waveforms are thought-emotion waves parallel to electromagnetic waves. Thought-

emotion waves travel through space as a waveform, but interact with matter as a particle, known

as a Thoton. Thoughts and emotions occur perpendicular to one another when they are activated.

When negative or destructive thoughts are activated, it creates emotionally unpleasant

experiences. However, the opposite is also true. When positive and coherent thoughts are

activated, it creates emotionally pleasant experiences. When destructive emotions, such as

anger, fear, envy, self-criticism get engaged they may begin to consume thoughts and disrupt

mental processes. When this occurs, thought flexibility and awareness decreases and the mind

creates chaos in the life of the individual. As the mind becomes aware of this process it has the

choice to free itself of the enslavement of destructive thought-emotions (Dalrymple, 1989).

Morphogenetic Fields

Rupert Sheldrake (2005) describes the presence of morphogenetic fields. These are fields

of thought throughout the universe; the input and output of creation. Mass consciousness is

considered a morphogenetic field. Simply, it is a field of energy created by all living beings both

visible and invisible. The fields within the activity of the nervous system are communicating in

morphic resonance, conveying instinctive memory. This morphogenetic field could also be

considered a quantum field.

Other scientists, psychologists, and medical doctors have discovered the science of this


quantum field or energetic connectedness. Biologist Dr. Bruce Lipton, (2005) a well-known

author and speaker who bridges science and spirituality, supports the idea that humans are made

of Universal energy and are manifested in the material form. Lipton refers to the analogy of a

crystal prism to explain how we are each unique individual frequencies that come from the same

Universal source.

Notice in the picture below how the light detracts to create the rainbow spectrum of

frequencies. The light that is detracted could be considered Universal source energy and each

rainbow spectrum can be considered our unique human individuality. When a beam of light goes

through the prism, the crystalline structure detracts the light so that it appears as a rainbow

spectrum. Each color is a component of the white light, but is seen separately because of its

unique frequency. If the pattern is reversed, and a rainbow light is projected through the prism,

the individual frequencies will recombine to form a beam of white light.

The hypothesis is that we are made of the environment and are supported by it. It's not

about the survival of the fittest, but it's about encouragement and support of everyone and

everything on this planet that could create a harmonious environment.


If individuals live from a place of harmony or a desire to create harmony, this could

create a new morphogenetic field. We can call it the person's morphogenetic field of harmony.

The individual can activate this quantum space within themselves to create therapeutic shifts

towards well-being. Next, we will discuss some therapeutic interventions that activate these

energetic fields.

Therapeutic Modalities

Now that we know some of the scientific evidence of this energy field, let's take a look at

how it is used in psychotherapy. There are a network of counselors, researchers, scientists,

teachers, and healers that are either familiar with or work directly with energy transformation.

The Association for Energy Psychology is a nonprofit organization of licensed mental health

professionals and energy health practitioners who are developing and applying energy

psychology methods to treat emotional challenges. Energy psychology combines physical

interventions such as chakras and meridian points with cognitive interventions. This mind-body

approach derives from the synergy of the practitioner teaching the client to activate energy

systems of the body while focusing on cognitive memories or affective experiences.

Interventions from Energy Psychology include emotional freedom technique, bioenergetics, and

matrix energetics. On the next several pages, we will discuss other therapeutic modalities that

can be used to transform afflicted states or stuck emotions. These include, bioenergetics,

mindfulness practice, coherence technique, Psych-K, and Self-Relations therapy.


Bioenergetics and the relationship to the body

Bioenergetics is a form of energy psychology that uses the body and the breath to

transform suppressed emotions. The body is our vessel and physical form which contains our

vital life force, known as energy. Oriental medicine refers to this energy as “Chi” and refers to it

as “the life force within us and manifests in various ways-from densely physical to the incredibly

subtle and commonly unobservable” (Hougham, P., 2006, p. 143). Lowen, A. (1990) the

founder of bioenergetic therapy, refers to this vital force in a similar aspect. He uses the term

bioenergy to refer to the energy of life and his form of treatment is based on understanding this

energy flow of the body, which he calls bioenergetic analysis (Lowen, 1990,p. 23).

According to Lowen, (1975) the body expresses our emotions, feelings, and connection to

the world around us. The muscles, bones, ligaments, nervous system, circulatory system,

respiratory system, brain, and skin are all interconnected to form the human body. Often the

energy within our body becomes stagnant in a particular area or areas restricting the fluidity of

our vital energy force. This vital energy also tends to split, where parts are flowing in the brain,

but the brains energy isn't flowing to the heart for example. The goal would be to connect the

heart and brain's flow of energy. This energy flow can cause different character structures. For

example, someone with a rigid character structure tends to have a stiff demeanor, holding the

head high with a straight backbone creating tension in the long muscles of the body (Lowen,

1975). The way in which our vital energy expands to our body is referred to as bioenergetics

One's vital energy starts at the core of one's being, radiating to different areas of the body,


often not flowing in alignment or harmony within the self. This insufficient flow causes

psychological and medical conditions. The psychological conditions associated with this flow

are from not being able to express one's emotions. The emotions get held in certain areas of the

body causing a disturbance (Lowen, 1975). Suppressed emotions become stored in the body,

creating dissonance because of the inability to release them. Bioenergetic psychotherapy

analyzes the condition, provides restructuring, and the ability to release emotions in an

empathetic environment. Movement and breath exercises are incorporated to restore the flow

and balance of the vital life energy.

Suppressed emotions decreases one's production of vital energy, restricting the flow of

breath. For one to increase vitality, one must discharge the suppressed energy by expressing

one's feeling in a state of aliveness. As the body discharges the energy, it is able to relax and

recharge (Lowen, 1990). Movement and visualization exercises are incorporated in the process

of recharging the body's vital force.

Breathing is part of our bodily rhythm of expansion and contraction. Oxygen is

associated with the vital life force and is fundamental in traditions such as Hinduism and Judeo-

Christian philosophies. The Hindus refer to the breath as “prana”- it is known as the vital life

force. Yoga is an exercise known to connect the individual spirit with the universal spirit

through the use of breath and movement poses. In the Judeo-Christian philosophy breath is

associated with life. The idea in bioenergetics regarding the release of suppressed emotions is

for the breath to extend deep enough into the pelvis which will activate suppressed feelings,

allowing one to feel deeply. Suppressed feelings are often unconscious, and tend to manifest in a

shallow breath and overinflated chest. Expressing anger helps the chest to expand fully. A


therapeutic exercise in expressing anger is hitting a bed in a standing position (Lowen, 1990, p.

50).

A bioenergetic technique which enforces deep breathing and straightens out a collapsed

abdomen entails lying over a stool with one's feet on the ground, reaching his or her arms behind

himself and grasping a chair (Lowen, 1990, p. 52). Both the release of anger, and the exercise

that enforces deep breathing, expand the breath and chest; thus creating more movement and

opening of the vital energy force.

Grounding is another important function in bioenergetic therapy. One's posture can show

signs of his connection to the ground. If a person stands erect, this typically represents a secure

sense of self. In contrast, if an individual's posture is slumped, it is associated with depression,

and a cowering posture is associated with fear. Grounding represents one's connection to the

earth and reality. The quality of one's grounding affects one's inner sense of security with one's

self , which stems from the individual's relationship with the mother.

The arch position in bioenergetics is a very common exercise to create a sense of

grounding. In this position the energy is balanced and charged from top to bottom creating a

sense of connectedness and integration (Lowen, 1975). Body posture, movement, and the use of

the breath facilitate the movement of chi in the body. It has the ability to create a state of

harmony and ease by releasing suppressed emotions.


Mindfulness practice to transform affliction

Mindfulness can help clients recognize patterns of cognitive reactivity. This can help

clients become more aware of the thoughts that are being generated. The awareness brings forth

the ability to make conscious shifts in one's thinking patterns. Dr. Dalrymple (1989) states that

the mind is an energy field made of electromagnetic waves; therefore thoughts can be considered

energy that is generated from a morphogenetic field. Negative self talk can imprison individuals

keeping them confined within a cycle of habitual suffering. Cultivating mindfulness as an

objective observer of thoughts and emotional reactions can create a space of empowerment, so

that the client can see alternate choices in responding to and perceiving certain situations. For

example, when a painful emotion arises, we can notice it with curiosity, knowing the thoughts

don't last and they aren't you. Here are a few phrases referenced from Bein's, T., (2010)

mindfulness practice of how to tend to thoughts and feelings.

Breathing in and out, I notice there is a sad feeling here

Breathing in and out, I notice a thought is arising that says the situation is hopeless

Breathing in and out, I am experiencing tightness in my chest (Bein, 2010, pp.105-106)

When we say “I am sad”, we identify with the sadness, but through recognizing that the

sadness is not you it creates a space between the emotion and the self. Then, the emotion can be


embraced and attended, like a mother would do to a child. Guided imagery could be used to

create the distinction between the self becoming engulfed with the emotion and the self creating

a safe zone to tend to the emotion. After, the emotion has been embraced, you can apply an

antidote to the situation.

The antidote would be to focus on what is working in the situation, what is going well,

and other positive thoughts. Science has shown us in neuroplasticity research that the brain has

the ability to rewire itself (McGaugh, 1995). This is exciting news because it shows that through

the practice of techniques such as mindfulness, the brain will become rewired and produce new

thinking patterns and generate new thoughts.

If a person is stuck in a pattern of habitual negative thinking there is an output of

negative thoughts that are being sent from the brain to create neurochemical physiological

reactions. If it is a negative thought, it generates a constricting reaction from the nervous system,

contracting or blocking the person's chi. Instead of a person continuously monitoring negative

thoughts each time one is created, neuroscience shows us that through practicing techniques that

reprogram the brain, such as mindfulness meditation, that over time the brain's neurochemistry

actually changes. This means that the frequency of negative thoughts being generated can be

greatly reduced.


The HeartMath Coherence Technique

The coherence technique is similar to mindfulness practice. It is a technique developed

from the HeartMath Institute (Childre, D., 2002). The institute has done research to understand

the heart and brain connection and how it relates to emotional well-being. Research shows that

the heart and brain communicate neurologically, biochemically (through hormones and

neurotransmitters), biophysically, and energetically.

The idea of the coherence technique is to induce a coherent state that offers access to the

heart's innate intelligence. The heart's rhythm influences brain processes that control an

individual's nervous system, cognitive abilities, and emotional regulation. The following

outlines a summary of the step by step process.

1. Focus your attention on your heart or the center of your chest

2. Breath deeply into your heart area, feeling the breath expand and contract into the heart

3. Bring your attention to a positive sensation and feeling (Childre, 2002)

The shift to a positive sensation begins to change the brain's chemistry and emotional

nervous system regulation. Each time a person feels out of coherence or anxious, she can shift

her attention to a positive emotional experience and this heartfelt experience calms the nervous

system. Then, the person is more coherent to process the anxious state.

The coherence technique can be combined with what is known as the freeze-frame

technique. When an individual is feeling stress or is overloaded with emotional unease the

freeze-frame introduces an exercise that allows the mind to pause and readdress the stress.


1. Recognize the sensation or thoughts associated with the stress

2. Shift your attention to breathing deep inhalations and exhalations into the heart.

3. Breath out Ease and recite the word ease, as you feel the tension leaving the body

4. Activate a positive memory or thought that brings warmth

5. Ask yourself what would be a better way to handle this situation

6. Notice any changes that arise (Childre, 2002)

Scientific studies have shown that this technique balances the nervous system and

restores equilibrium. It shifts the pattern of signals the heart sends to the brain, so that all three

physiological mechanisms can harmonize. It stabilizes the emotions and recharges the body's

energy. If this technique is practiced everyday it helps to renew a person's emotional buoyancy

(Childre, 2002).

The following examples, copied from Childre's HeartMath booklet, show examples of

how heart activity affects feelings and thoughts. Please see the figures on pages 21-22 that

explain in detail how the heart signals to different parts of the brain that manifest emotions and

thoughts.


(Childre, 2002, p.23)

The pathway begins in the heart and moves to the 1st brain, then to the 2nd brain. This

signals to the brain what the heart and body are experiencing. The 3rd brain names the feelings,

such as anger, joy, excitement, and sadness after the person is already experiencing the emotion.

This diagram shows us that our heart rhythms signal to the brain how we are feeling, which

produces an emotional response.


(Childre, 2002, p. 23)

The figures explain that, not only does the heart rhythm generate emotions, it also

generates thoughts. Research shows that monitoring our heart rhythms through inhalations and

exhalations of the breath produces a calm coherent state. This coherent state generates positive

thoughts and emotions. This state of coherence can change the neurochemistry of our brain from

a disorganized incoherent pattern to one that is more balanced.

When incoherent thoughts and emotions get signaled to the brain, the circuits become

overloaded with stressful thoughts and emotions that effect focusing, thinking clearly, and

learning. This causes the signals in the nervous system to get out of sync creating incoherent


heart rhythms that interfere with the brain's ability to think clearly. However positive feelings,

such as peace, joy, gratitude, and love, generate even heart rhythms which facilitate the brain's

ability to process information. The individual is then able to see more options and solutions

rather than having blocked or disrupted thinking.

The coherence technique isn't a criticism of experiencing negative emotions and thoughts,

because it is universal human nature for all of us to have these experiences. The coherent

technique is simply a tool that can be used to help facilitate clearer thinking and coherent heart

rhythms. It's a method that brings awareness to one's own emotional and mental process so that

a person can choose to consciously shift to a coherent rhythm so he can tend to his mental and

emotional processes.

Psych-K

The principles in Psych-K are designed to challenge a person's limiting beliefs and to

accelerate a person's unlimited potential. Williams, R.M. (2004) discusses the concepts of

Psych-K. He states, the mind is considered the energy that surrounds the brain. In quantum

physics the final analysis is that everything is energy at its fundamental basis. The body and

mind are composed of molecules vibrating at different frequencies. The mind is molecules of the

self that are vibrating at its own rate. The concept in Psych-K is that human beings consist of an

infinity of programmable cells that have been biologically and environmentally programmed,

which can be reprogrammed (Williams, 2004).

The software of the mind is expressed as attitudes, values, and beliefs. A person's set of


programmed attitudes, values and beliefs effect the perception of the way the individual views

the world around him. Some beliefs can be changed by the conscious mind, but scientists have

discovered that 95% of the mind functions from a subconscious level (Williams, 2004). The

subconscious mind is sensory based and experiences the environment through visual, auditory,

kinesthetic, gustatory, and olfactory senses. Therefore, affirmations to make positive changes are

too abstract for the literal subconscious mind to translate (Williams, 2004).

Psych-K activates the superconscious mind to translate conscious goals for the

subconscious mind. The superconscious mind is part of consciousness that is beyond both the

conscious and subconscious minds that have been part of human culture. The superconscious

can be considered the higher self, universal mind, or spirit. The goal is to integrate the conscious,

subconscious, and superconscious minds into a unified consciousness. Psych-K relies on the

wisdom within the individual as the facilitator of change (Williams, 2004).

Before applying the principles of Psych-K it is important to have a clear intention of what

you would like to shift or what goal you would like to work towards. Muscle testing is seen as

the easiest communication link to the subconscious and superconscious minds. Muscle testing

can be used to test for intentionality. Verbal communication is the link to the conscious mind

that sets goals and judges results. The subconscious is the storehouse of attitudes, beliefs, and

values. It acts from habituated responses. The superconscious mind provides counsel and

support and helps manifest the intentions of the conscious and subconscious. Let's take a look at

how the Psych-K formula can be applied.


The Psych-K Formula:

Step I. Set the intention on what the person wants in the present tense and not on what the

person doesn't want. Define this intent in sensory based language. What does this goal or

intention visually look like, how does it kinesthetically feel, what words or sounds are associated

with it?

Step II. Check for Intent. What are the ramifications, is it something that is truly wanted or is it a

good idea. What sacrifices will be made?

Step III. Communicate Intention to the Subconscious Mind. This can be done in prayer, ritual,

vision quest or any healing modalities that communicates to the subconscious.

Step IV. Take action on the Intent from step II (Williams, 2004, pp.99-101).

Psych-K and the Coherent technique provide tools individuals can use towards making

conscious shifts from limited and disruptive thoughts and emotions towards living from a place

of unlimited potential and coherence. The next section addresses making space for various parts

of the self, known as a person's relational field. This involves loosening the attachment to

afflicted states so that the individual can see the quantum field of possibilities.


Self Relations Therapy

In Self-Relations therapy, change is produced through experiential learning instead of

merely a cognitive shift. The idea is that there is an invisible presence that resides within every

human being. It is often referred to as spirit, soul, chi, core, or essence. Self-Relations therapy

acknowledges this presence and nurturing it brings forth, the innate wisdom and inner knowing

of the individual, and that lacking a connection to this part of you causes pain. The presence is

associated with what is known as the somatic mind. This is the platform for cognitive knowing,

relational understanding, and subtle wisdom. It may be considered the neurocentric brain and is

associated a person's gut instinct. A Self-Relations practitioner is interested in the nature of this

somatic center. Self-Relations emphasizes the integration of all aspects of the self. The different

aspects of the self are called the relational field (Gilligan, 2004).

The idea is to stay connected to the center and the relational field when faced with

challenges. The relationship to the self and the sponsorship of the practitioner are the crucial

elements. This is the means that a person can change by transforming the nature of the

relationship to a problem. Thoughts and feelings become more flexible, a fixed relationship to a

problem can become one that is playful and compassionate. Self-Relations involves being fully

present in one's self, connecting with all parts and establishing a relationship to them.

When a person says no to life, it is building a dam to block the energetic flow. A

metaphor for this is the river of life flows through the somatic center; it brings both happiness

and suffering. When suffering occurs is a person's life, instead of building defenses to block the


experience, another type of protection is available based on centering and keeping the relational

connection.

The unification of the mind and body and the attunement of the body's alignment with the

energies of the relational field is known as centering. This is quantum psychology in action -

Spirit meeting matter to create a quantum shift in a person's relational field. Gilligan (2004),

gives an example of a client who comes in with depression. The therapist sees the client not as

only depressed, but playful, serious, wise, etc. The therapists takes note of these other selves

within the client. Space is made for the depressed part to come out, while also sensing the other

selves in his quantum field. The task is to help the person relax the attachment to the depressed

state and open up to the greater quantum field of possibilities. The following chart on the next

page gives examples of the consciousness of the quantum self and classical self in this process.

Notice that the characteristics of the quantum self are infinite and limitless as compared to

classical characteristics.

.


(Gilligan, 2004)


Case Studies

Case One

Many of these theories and techniques previously discussed have been applied in my own

practice as a psychotherapist in training. One of my client's, whom I will refer to as Jenny is a

47 year old, religious female who experiences symptoms of depression and anxiety. After

several sessions of building rapport with Jenny and holding compassionate space for her to

process her experiences, I began to introduce various interventions. Jenny seems to respond best

to mindfulness based visualizations HeartMath, and self-relations.

During the sessions, I would invite Jenny to take deep breaths and to notice each

expansion of her breath with the inhalation and also the contraction of her breath through her

exhalation. Then, I would invite her to feel her feet on the ground and notice what they feel like.

I would take this exercise to the next level of guiding her to become fully embodied by noticing

her breath, limbs, body temperature, and ask if she needed to make any adjustments or

movements. Once, I got the sense that Jenny was present in her body, I would guide her into a

visualization into releasing her anxiety into a container. After Jenny released the anxiety, I

would then ask her to notice how the anxiety isn't attached to her, but is now in the container.

Then, I invited her to dialogue with her thoughts that are creating her anxiety.

I've also used chair work and enactments to address developing a dialogue with her

anxiety and depression. This could be seen as a form of self-relations therapy. It created a

sponsored space for the client to detach from her anxiety and develop a relationship to it. I also

introduced a lot of empowering visualizations after she communicated with her anxiety so that


Jenny could also acknowledge and remember her strengths through these experiences.

I have done this particular intervention with Jenny over approximately 12 sessions. I

have been seeing Jenny for a total of 30 sessions. Jenny's anxiety has decreased, however she is

struggling with obsessive thoughts. We have been focusing on bringing mindfulness to these

thoughts and reframing the critical thoughts into new beliefs. For example, I invited Jenny to

create a thought journal for her obsessive thoughts, and to set a time of 15 minutes each day to

entertain her obsessive thoughts. During the rest of the day when her obsessive thoughts would

arise, she would respond to those thoughts by letting them know that she would tend to them

later in her 15 minute daily interval. And, right now the thoughts aren't serving her and she is

going to stay focused on the present task in front of her.

Another intervention, is to identify when thoughts arise that communicate beliefs that say

“ It's not ok for me to be happy”, or “ Person “A” is more likable than me, and I'm not good

enough” and then to reframe those thoughts. The following are examples of thought

restructuring with Jenny.

Critical Thought Restructured Thought

It is not ok for me to be happy I acknowledge that there is a thought that says it is not

ok for me to be happy, and I am choosing to believe

that it is not true because I know that I feel

best when I am happy and I believe God wants me

to be happy.


Person A is more likable than me, Person A has attributes that I admire, and I like me

and I am not good enough. the way that I am. I like my femininity and my kind

spirit

These are some examples of thought restructuring that have been used in the case of

Jenny. I explored with Jenny in depth reframing sentences that feel true to her, a reframe that she

resonates with that expresses her true thoughts and feelings. This incorporates both mindfulness

and Self-Relations therapy towards transforming self-destructive thoughts and emotions.

Case Two

Another client, who is a 15 year old high school girl, responds well to HeartMath

interventions. I started seeing this particular client in group therapy sessions, followed by

individual therapy. She was seen in group therapy for 8 sessions, then she had 5 sessions of

individual therapy. The student requested therapy because she was having nightmares from

PTSD related symptoms. I will refer to this young woman as Monica. Monica appeared to be an

open, confident, and talkative adolescent both individually and in group sessions among her

peers. She spoke openly about her fears and PTSD related issues and symptoms in the group

therapy sessions.

The first individual session that I had with Monica occurred because Monica mentioned

after a group session that she felt like running away from home. The therapeutic intervention


consisted of assessing for potential abuse and risk factors and holding the container of

unconditional positive regard as Monica spoke of her difficulties. I enquired with Monica further

through socratic questioning that engaged Monica's ability to problem solve for herself in regards

to managing her stressors. I would implement active listening, acknowledging her feelings, and

asked questions that evoked Monica's ability to access her inner resources. The following is a

dialogue with Monica.

Monica: I feel like running away from home because I don't ever have any privacy.

Therapist: Mmmm hmmmm. (nods) ...... you sound a bit frustrated

Monica: Yea, I wish I had a place to get away from it all

Therapist: Where do you usually go or what do you usually do when you want privacy?

Monica: Sometimes, I go to my grandmother's house who lives down the block or I go to this

tree that I like to go to and sit underneath it... my grandmother usually puts me to work when I

go over there though.

Therapist: (Smiles) What do you like about sitting under the tree and going to your

grandmother's house?

Monica: I like to help my grandmother in her garden and it feels good to help her. Mostly, I like

going to the tree because I feel really peaceful when I am there.

Therapist: You seem resourceful, like you have outlets that help you with stress. I'm wondering

what are some ideas that you can think of that will keep you safe when you feel like running

away.

Monica: I'm not really going to run away, my family is pretty good to me, but life is stressful.


Therapist: Yes, life can be.....would you like to try an exercise that you can try at home to help

with stress reduction?

(Monica nods)

Therapist: Notice if you feel like you need to move around or make adjustments in your seat

and make yourself comfortable. (This is where I am observing the client's somatic responses)

Now take a deep breath and focus on your breath, noticing it expand and contract with each

breath.

(Monica takes a few deep breaths)

Therapist: Place your hand on your heart and notice your breath moving into your heart area,

notice the air circulating in and around your heart, noticing the breath sending nourishment and

support to your heart. Notice if there is any tension or stressful thoughts or emotions around

your heart and breath them out saying silently to yourself “I am calm, I am safe.” (We stay with

this exercise for several minutes) When you are ready, think of a thought, memory, or place that

brings you joy and warmth. Raise your hand when you think of something.

(Monica Calmly raises hand)

Therapist: Notice the sights, sounds, colors around you when you think of the memory that

brings you warmth and joy. Notice the smells and what you feel around you, the textures, is it

soft, thin, thick? Take note of the feeling in your body and in your heart when you are with this

memory.

(Monica breathing)

Therapist: Just be there for a moment and notice the feelings in your heart and when you are

ready you can open your eyes and come back to the present moment.


Monica: That was really cool, I was sitting under the tree and felt so calm.

Therapist: I'm glad that you liked it. How are you feeling now?

Monica: I feel more relaxed

Therapist: This is something that you can do at home too, whenever you are feeling stressed or

anxious.

The dialogue described implements the coherence technique developed by the HeartMath

Institute (Childre, 2002). This exercise brings the client from a place of stress to a place of

coherence so that she is able to process her stress. When the client connects with her heart space

it slows down mental and emotional tension. This creates less stress and more mental clarity.

The dialogue with Monica also incorporates the concept of Self-Relations because the therapist

is considered the sponsor to her emotional process. The sponsoring provides Monica the

opportunity to relate to her feelings and create different responses to them instead of the

responses that have been causing her distress.


Conclusion

Quantum Psychology is an emerging branch of therapy that can be used to facilitate

transformations in psychotherapy. Quantum physics describes how everything is made of energy

and that energy has vibrational frequencies. The psychological aspect to quantum physics

addresses how mental and emotional energetic frequencies can be made conscious so that we can

see options that help us to develop a different response, perspective or relationship to situations

that interfere with well-being. The presence of morphogenetic fields provide insight into the

energetic resonance of cells and how they can be reprogrammed to create different responses.

There are many therapeutic modalities that can create quantum shifts in thoughts, perceptions,

beliefs, and emotional reactions. Some of these that we have discussed include bioenergetics,

mindfulness, coherence technique, Psych-K, and Self-Relations.


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