Positive Psychology at NCWC

Western medical approaches are remarkable in their ability to diagnose, intervene, heal, and repair human defections, even replace or transplant body parts. Under this paradigm, the patient abdicates the healing potential to sources outside their selves. The healer/physician knows the patient better than the patient knows him or herself, and offers remedies to resolve the concern.

Mental health problems are not always so scientifically evident. Although we can diagnose someone with bipolar disorder or panic attack, we would not be able to find ‘bipolar’ or ‘panic’ under a microscope. An autopsy on an alcoholic would not reveal compulsion, though it might (or might not) reveal evidence of physical damage due to excess drinking.

Western science has more knowledge of the brain than ever before and technological advances in medicine have produced a pharmaceutical explosion of remedies for mental health disorders. Though this is helpful in many cases, it does little to help clients come to terms with painful life circumstances. In spite of the pharmaceutical therapy revolution, mental health concerns are on the rise. The World Health Organization estimates that depression is currently the fourth biggest, costliest, and most debilitation disease in the world and by the year 2020, it will be the second biggest. There are no medical procedures to repair spirit, transplant soul, or to install skill and support.

In the 1950’s Humanistic psychology sought to de-emphasize the disease and illness focused Western scientific approach championed by Freud. Instead the focus was on functional aspects of individuals. Maslow’s notion of self-actualization emphasized innate human capacity to heal and Rogers’ client-centered therapy stressed the cooperative endeavor of the afflicted in therapy. Today’s positive psychology movement seeks to reverse the tendency to pathologize clients, by not just assessing problems, but evaluating strengths and capabilities. Research tells us happiness is a function of personal connection, meaning, and living a valued life in spite of life’s difficulties.

Northwest Counseling’s approaches seek to emphasize what’s functional and to help clients to explore innate healing potential. Our commitment to positive psychology and integrative approaches utilize evidence based Eastern and Western healing approaches for synergetic solutions to life’s suffering. Facility practitioners are well versed in assisting client to access spiritual, energetic, soulful solutions, with a community of supportive others. Curious for a change? Let us help you.

-John