Process-oriented psychology, also known as Process Work or Process-Oriented Psychology, is a psychological approach developed by Dr. Arnold Mindell in the 1970s. It is based on the premise that every individual and group has its own unique inner dynamics and processes that influence their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships.
Process-oriented psychology integrates elements from various psychological theories, including Jungian psychology, Gestalt therapy, Taoism, and quantum physics. It emphasizes the exploration and understanding of the unconscious and the ways in which it manifests in an individual’s experience.
One of the key concepts in Process-oriented psychology is the idea of “dreambody.” It suggests that the body and its symptoms can be seen as a form of communication from the unconscious. Dreams, body symptoms, and other seemingly random or unusual experiences are considered to contain valuable information about an individual’s underlying conflicts, aspirations, and personal growth.
Process-oriented psychology also recognizes the importance of diversity and focuses on working with and embracing different states of consciousness, cultural backgrounds, and social identities. It views conflicts and disturbances as potential sources of creativity and growth, seeking to facilitate the integration of all parts of an individual’s experience.
In practice, Process-oriented psychology employs various techniques, including dream work, body awareness, role-playing, amplification of symptoms, and working with the environment and social context. It can be applied in individual therapy, couples therapy, group work, organizational development, and conflict resolution.
Overall, Process-oriented psychology aims to help individuals and groups become more aware of and embrace their unique inner processes, resolve conflicts, develop greater self-awareness, and create more harmonious and fulfilling lives.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 