With heart, body and mind

In my work, I combine systemic approaches with consistently mindfulness-based conversational skills. Systemic initially means an acknowledgment of previous “attempts at a solution” as well as the patterns, stories (narrations) and beliefs learned in the process. Here, a space of knowledge is opened up from the individual point of view, which makes the perceived problems in their relationship and communication in social systems such as family, work environment or circle of friends articulate, transparent and understandable.

In doing so, we look at structures, dynamics, roles and patterns that are relevant to the concern and topic and can determine the status quo. In addition to the social systems, the focus here is also on the inner (intrapsychic) system, e.g. inner parts and (especially psychological) basic needs and beliefs, which often play a central role in conflicts and decisions regarding relationships and work. Here, the respective patterns and connections just as often go back further in the personal coping biography. Examples of this are: "i'm not good enough" or i'm not right", "i'm not allowed to do this" or "I don't belong". The integrative approach also includes appreciating these inner parts and beliefs in their former meaningfulness and functionality. This can mean arriving at a point of acceptance, understanding more deeply, saying the unspoken and also allowing feelings. Before you start changing and overcoming these patterns of experience, which are often energy- and time-consuming in everyday life.

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Mindfulness-based methods can be very helpful both in recognizing the initial situation (status quo), i.e. in expanding perspectives for finding solutions and, essentially, in their sustainable implementation and integration in everyday life. This expands the intellectual level and "examination" of the topic to include the physical level of perception, spontaneous intuition and personal wisdom. The body often knows more than “one thinks” (Kabat-Zinn). This holistic approach can be particularly helpful when the attempts to cope (coping strategies) take place primarily “in the head” or are experienced as “overheaded”. Examples of this are brooding, worrying, constantly going through and rolling over an XY scenario, etc. In this respect, this approach is also very well suited as a supplement or in combination with mindfulness training or with an existing mindfulness practice. In everyday life, solutions often mean trying out unfamiliar behavior or carefully observing oneself in situations and learning to pause in a friendly manner.

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In this context, mindfulness also means an attitude of mindfulness that has been practiced or trained or embodied over many years. This enables an unbiased or interested and curious basic attitude for the conversation. Finally, and last but not least, attitude (in german at least) here also means “holding” difficult feelings (including the client towards himself) and issues. Ultimately, for me, what makes counseling and therapy sessions so special and humble is the fact that something can be shown here that sometimes cannot be viewed or perceived with (relative) calm in the midst of everyday life. And yes, therapy in this sense always means work, which in turn can mean development and inner growth. I would be happy to support you too in this.