Minneapolis Therapy & Marriage Counseling

Ayd and Cavanagh Psychological Services
4004  24th Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55406
612-229-1234

SPIRITUALITY AND PSYCHOLOGY:
COMPLEMENTARY APPROACHES TO
ATTAINING MENTAL WELLNESS

For more information about spirituality and therapy, visit our site at www.ayd-cavanagh.com

"Man is the only animal for whom his own existence is a problem which he has to solve. Love is the only sane and satisfactory answer to the problem of human existence."
Erich Fromm

At its simplest level the basis of good mental health is defined as having positive regard for one’s self and others. Psychology provides application and methodology for individuals, and the larger community, to attain emotional wellness. It aims to positively change the human condition. To change negative patterns that prevent us from being happy is the objective of the discipline.

How can the ethereal nature of spirituality fit into the science of psychology? At its crux spirituality is the process that hopefully leads toward loving ourselves, each other and finding meaning and purpose in life. If psychology’s aim is to improve the human condition, the intent of spiritual practice is not only to change the human condition, but to transcend it.

Combining psychological and spiritual precepts to arrive at a place of wholeness and wellbeing augments and enriches the energies within both spheres. Psychology seeks to help us become better, more whole and happy. It aims to assist humans to have healthier relationships and to attain a resilient sense of self.

To a large extent, the aspiration of spiritual practice is similar in that it is concerned with self and others, connectedness, and replacing fear and neurosis for joy and contentment. It involves connection, being one with each other and all creation. Spiritual pursuit involves reaching into ourselves to unearth our essence, our being, and encourage this development in each other. Endeavors both in psychology and spirituality are transformative, make us stretch to find meaning and purpose in life, and invite us to challenge our perceptions.

Change in perception is at the foundation of both psychology and spirituality. To look at things from a different perspective in order to change one’s feelings is the core of cognitive-behavioral psychology. Likewise, to challenge our ego based thought processes in order to experience the sacred and divine is the cornerstone of spirituality.

Spirituality is defined as “having the nature of the spirit, not tangible or material.”  Spirituality is the center of who we are meant to be.  It is inclusive, never exclusive; and although attempted, no sole religion may lay claim to spirit as its own domain.  It is our deep, essential, fundamental self.  It is in us as the presence of love.  We are honored to join you in your psychological and spiritual journey.

"Miracles happen everyday, change your perception of what a miracle is and you’ll see them all around you." Jon Bon Jovi

"Psychology helps us understand and change. Spirituality helps us change and heal."  Janette Ayd

For inspirational quotes relating to spirituality go to: http://ayd-cavanagh.blogspot.com/

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