QUANTUM PSYCHOLOGY

Quantum Psychology
Tasha Dufrene
HSJ5351.1 Final Integrative Project
John F. Kennedy University
Winter 2012

QUANTUM PSYCHOLOGY

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

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Contents

Introduction

4-5

Quantum Mechanics

The Subconscious

6-7

Destructive Thoughts and Emotions

8-9

Theories:
Emoto, Masaru/ Vibrational Frequencies
Dalrymple, Ron/ Quantum Psychology
Morphogenetic Fields

10
10
11
11-12

Therapeutic Modalities:
Bioenergetics
Mindfulness Practice
Coherence Technique
Psych-K
Self-Relations

13
14-16
17-18
19-22
23-25
26-28

Case Studies

29-34

Conclusion

35

References

36-37

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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. Thoughtemotion 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

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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.

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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.

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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,

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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 JudeoChristian 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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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(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.

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(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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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(Gilligan, 2004)

28

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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

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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
It is not ok for me to be happy

Restructured Thought
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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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