Hakomi

Hakomi is a method of gentle, experiential psychotherapy that operates from a core of five principles: mindfulness, unity, mind-body holism, non-violence, and organicity.  It was developed by psychologist Ron Kurtz, a practicing Buddhist and body-mind practitioner, who wanted to develop a compassionate way of accessing body awareness.

Hakomi works on changing those aspects of our core material—memories, body impressions, emotional imprints, habitual thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes—that were developed in response to challenging situations, but which limit our options when carried into adulthood.

At the root of Hakomi is mindfulness, a deep listening to oneself. The past is referenced, but only as it needs to be for healing and completion as the flow of the moment dictates.

This experience of being oneself cannot be thought. It must be experienced directly. The therapist is not an authority giving advice or making suggestions, but a calm presence providing a safe container for the journey of self-discovery.