'When you recognise … that you only exist relationally with other beings without any absolute difference between you and them, or you and the universe, then suddenly you are free to become in harmony with the universe and live in a more aesthetic way with the universe ... free of self absolutisation’
- Prof. Robert Thurman
Mindfulness based Core Process Psychotherapy
The cornerstone of this heart-centered contemplative approach to therapy is the assumption that at the core of every human being is an ever-present state of inherent health that is our true nature. It is unsullied by life’s experiences, always there, regardless of the situation we find ourselves in or the events that have shaped our personalities and influenced how we live our lives.
The invitation I offer through the process of psychotherapeutic practice is to reveal and return to that unconditioned core state. As human beings we all suffer, feel pain and periodically struggle in life. It is natural. In Core Process Psychotherapy (CPP) we explore those places together with awareness, and with compassion for what has affected us. It is a journey towards greater happiness and health.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is the process of bringing one’s attention to internal and external experiences occurring in the present moment, rather than worrying about the past or feeling anxious about the future. In this way it is possible to interrupt any unproductive tendencies, often related to our responses to past anxieties, judgments, events, or relationships.
In addition, Mindfulness encourages the quiet observation of habituated thought patterns and emotions, without judgment. Bringing awareness to them, naming them, ‘touching’ them kindly, allows a more spacious and liberated way of living, one that becomes softened by these experiences, enriched by what we can learn as we reclaim ourselves from our suffering.
How does that affect You?
The space in which we meet for our Core Process sessions is created with an awareness of the importance to you of a safe, attentive, heartfelt, deep listening place in which any and all issues can be met. Here we reflect on what is happening for you now.
Focusing together, without judgment and with kind eyes, on things that are interfering with the ability to function and enjoy life fully, you can become more aware of how your thought processes, feelings and behaviours are shaping your relationships.
Bringing in how you are feeling right now, helps you step out of painful, difficult patterns and into greater alignment with your personality, life, and your inherent health. It gives us the opportunity to discover what makes life satisfying to you and gives you joy and meaning. It gives you the opportunity to see how you can bring more of this into each day, responding in the present in a way that reflects your true nature.
What can Core Process Psychotherapy offer?
Core Process Psychotherapy helps you identify issues and habitual ways of relating that are presently playing out in your life.
So many of us are experiencing unexpected challenges, often beyond our control. They can trigger our histories, and destabilise our present realities. CPP helps you to identify and allow room for your feelings, notice your habitual responses, and consider the full extent of your options. You give yourself space to be with yourself, your situation, and others in a different way. You give yourself space to change.
Working out what is actually happening for you, being deeply listened to in the telling of your story, can dissolve a lot of tension and distress. Together we reflect on what is troubling you now. It may feel too difficult to meet alone. Meeting issues together in a safe place can offer invaluable support, clarity and insight.
Events in the present may remind you of moments from the past. We look at how your once successful patterns and attitudes, created as responses to old challenges and traumas, shaped your life; how they unconsciously influence your choices, and can become so ingrained that they slip out of your awareness while holding you hostage in unhealthy ways. We will meet them with curiosity and compassion.
Some of the Benefits of Core Process Psychotherapy
I believe that our core emanates who we are, even in the face of life’s inevitable challenges, and the strategies we employ in order to survive and thrive.
Together we explore what has happened, and what is happening in your life. You may come feeling fearful, troubled or angry, stressed or anxious; dealing with illness or depression, grief or separation; and issues from the past that affect how you view yourself in the present.
Whatever is holding you back may dissolve. As you meet it, you have the choice to let go of ways in which you have been limiting yourself, allowing a reconnection with the deeper, more satisfying elements of life, elements that reflect more truly who you are at your core, and with those things that bring you pleasure in life.
Issues may include:
- Depression
Anxiety
- Stress
- Self-esteem
- Relationship challenges at home and at work
- Complex or Developmental Trauma
- Eating disorders
- Anger
- Bereavement, Grief, Loss
- Adjustment/transition difficulties
Contact Sarah and Schedule a Session
Psychotherapy is often an in-depth process. It takes time to build trust in the relationship with your therapist and to become aware of the many subtle elements contributing to thoughts, feelings and behaviour.
I offer an initial phone meeting free of charge. We would then typically start with six session, either in person, or on Skype or Zoom. Each session is an hour long. I work on an open-ended, or short-term, basis in private practice in St. John’s Wood, London, and in Shaftesbury, Dorset.
If you feel you might want to start therapy, please get in touch. Feel free to email or phone me with any questions you might have.
Email: slidsey@aol.com
Phone: 07506 381191
About Sarah Lidsey
I am a Masters Graduate of Core Process Psychotherapy, fully accredited by the UK Council of Psychotherapists, UKCP. I bring to my psychotherapeutic practice over 20yrs experience as a qualified practitioner in complementary energy therapies, as well as experience as a Neurofeedback trainer. I have a background in Fine Arts, underpinned by a personal healing journey that has been focused on a path of transformation. My continuing path has its foundation in an appreciation for ancient philosophies, indigenous wisdom, universal dynamics and the growing field of neuroscience.
