Last night, I got a late call from my friend who recently visited a therapist. Well, basically he just called to tell me how beautiful his new therapist was but I got interested with the fact that he said that he went through Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy.

As I did a little search in Google while he was talking, I saw that according to REBT, our emotions result from our personal beliefs, interpretations and reactions to life events. It is actually a type of cognitive therapy and is based more on thinking and doing than with the expression of feelings.

After hours of therapy, he told me that REBT taught him to have an unconditional self - acceptance. He lost his ego after his divorce with this wife so he really could not accept himself until such time he went to therapy. He learned that the world and people are fallible and that everyone must learn to accept themselves, life’s problems and hassles and that unfairness.

The goal of all good therapy is, in my opinion, to assist the individual
on his goal of individuation - or self-actualization.

But in order to truly accomplish this, it is my humble opinion that
the therapy must employ the methods of psychoanalysis.
Though psychoanalysis has gotten a kind of bad name over the past few decades, it is still the
only form of therapy that gets the client in touch with her unconscious self.
And it is this unconscious self which houses the complexes which
all too often defeat or frustrate our spiritual growth.

Regrettably, psychoanalysis is no longer the standard in therapeutic circles.
Therapists nowadays have been channeled into practicing cognitive therapy
as the norm. I think this is unfortunate, and largely due to an overpowering negative
influence of the insurance industry.

What’s Wrong with Cognitive Therapy?

The limitation of cognitive therapy is, quite simply this:
It doesn’t address the root-level, unconscious processes
which create the negative thought patterns the cognitivists
try so skillfully to correct.

Only depth psychology (of which psychoanalysis is a species)
can really get to these core, root-level issues. It’s not that
cognitive psychology has no use. It’s just that relying solely on
cognitive psychology to solve psychoemotional problems
is very like pulling an apple off an apple tree and expecting
the apple not to grow back next spring.

Eric Bryant, Philosophical Counseling Consultant
Gnosis Arts Multimedia Communications LLC

If a person is having a variety of speech, voice and language disorders, then the speech therapist is the person to seek help from. Problems such as stuttering, fluency and rhythm problems, wrong pitch, harsh voice and speech quality problems are just a few of their expertise.

The most obvious of those problems is stuttering that is caused by anxiety. What a speech therapist would do is set up a program of speech exercises to reduce disability and in some cases, they end up seeking help from a psychiatrist. Some disorders may arise from brain injury, mental disability, cerebral palsy, stroke or hearing loss.

Speech disorders are usually related to neurological and physical conditions. Speech therapists therefore must be able to work as a member of a team that may include other specialists such as neurologists. An important role of a speech therapy is to provide counseling and support or individuals on how to cope with the stress that is attached to these speech problems. Although the job is not that physically demanding, a speech therapist must have a lot of patience and compassion becuase the healing process takes up a lot of time.

I always find tattoo as something that has to do with how one can express himself in the form of an art. However, a person who wants to have a tattoo should know the consequences of having one. Aside from the money involved of course, there is also the fact that you have to think well as to where that tattoo should be placed. One advise that I got from a friend of mine was - the first tattoo must be concealable so that it would save a lot of headache.

There are companies that do not accept employees with tattoos so as much as possible, if you want to be in that company, you may want to conceal your first tattoo or not have one at all. There is the option of tattoo removal though but the problem is, it doesn’t quite work well. There will come a time that you will be regretting having that tattoo because removing it may hurt twice as much.

There are a lot of treatments that could possibly remove your tattoo but it may leave a permanent scar that you have to live by for the next years of your life. Laser treatments are available at your disposal. Just go to the clinic and when they inject that anesthetic, they will start removing the tattoo. However, some parts of your affected body may not be that numb so the pain would be like a burning nail driven inside your skin. There are also infrared lighting that will burn the tattoo off.

At the end of the day when you look at your expenses, it could be somewhere near $1500. And not to mention the fact that the part where the tattoo used to be will never look the same with all the scar and burn marks.

Tattoo is still an art for me but I strongly suggest that you think it over if you want to have one so that in the end, there will be no regrets at all.

Procrastination brings in a lot of stress to almost every individual. It is actually the avoidance of doing a certain task that needs to be done. It is commonly addressed to as postponing until tomorrow what can be done today. Aside from the stress and depression that it brings, it also affects a person’s work and his feelings such as guilt, inadequacy and disgust.

People procrastinate for numerous reasons. These reasons include: poor time management, the overload of tasks at a specific time, the inability to prioritise things that has to be done, problem with concentrating, feeling overwhelmed, the fear of success and the possible consequences, perfectionism, negative feelings, being bored and avoiding the things which are disliked or one that appears to be very difficult to accomplish.

Overcoming the problem with procrastination involves a lot of time management skills and a clear understanding of the task at hand. People deal with this problems differently. One thing may work for one person and not work for the other. It is therefore a matter of finding the ways that would best suit a person’s character rather than following a different person’s pattern.

Practice improves one’s capacity to handle procrastination. Once this has been done, then stress could be minimized and therefore, work can be much pleasing and a whole lot happier.

Step 1- Decide what is “reasonable” and what is not.

This may be tricky because different people have different ideas of this. One way to do it is to think about it when you are calm and cool – many things that seemed “reasonable” when you were worked up seem ridiculous and petty in the cold light of day. So, make yourself take a time out, and think things through before responding. It is much easier to decide what is “reasonable” or not with a clear head.

Another way to do it is to compare someone’s behavior with other people in that situation or age group. For instance, we have different expectations for teens and adults, for single people and married people, for normal circumstances and difficult ones (such as grieving, or going through a divorce), for managers and minimum-wage workers, etc.

If you still are not sure if your expectation is reasonable, try asking peers or friends to get honest feedback. Good friends will tell you the truth and help you adjust those expectations in line with common standards in your social group or community.

Step 2- Take the word “should” out of your vocabulary

Fact is, we can’t control other people, try as we might. People behave the way they behave for their own reasons. Avoid the trap of getting upset because others don’t behave as they “should.” This sets up an expectation on your part that may not be reasonable – and it may also be wrong. Instead of “shoulding” on yourself, try changing your vocabulary to words like “I would prefer if……..” “It would be nice if….” Instead of “They should….”

Here are some questions to ask yourself that will help you in changing how you think about things that trigger your anger:

• WHY ‘should” the other person do what I think they should?

• WHY “should” things go the way I demand they go?

• Am I being too demanding of them?

• Am I imposing my own viewpoint on them?

• Am I judging them because they don’t do as they “should” in my mind?

Step 3- Remember that sometimes people or situations have more limitations than you give them credit for.

People often behave badly toward us because they are limited or have a

Problem- not because they are purposefully trying to make us miserable. Of

course, we want them to live up to our expectations, but in truth they are

fallible people who may not be able to - or they have a different agenda in

life than meeting your expectations.

For example, the middle-aged woman who cuts us off on the freeway may

be doing it because she just learned that her husband is divorcing her – she

probably doesn’t even know that you exist! Our parents may not give us the

love we deserve not because there is something wrong with us, but because

they have a limited capacity to love their children in the right way. Your

envious sibling may not have the capacity to “share” the limelight with

other people– including you.

Other personal limitations may include psychological disorders or emotional

difficulties which limit a person’s ability to function adequately in certain

life areas. Examples might include depression (which is why the other may

not have energy), ADHD (which may prevent a person from being able to

focus or stick to tasks, or achieve in school) or anxiety disorders (which may

lead to social isolation)

About the author:

The AJ Novick Group is a leading provider of Anger Management training, classes, anger management coaching, workplace programs and products. Ari Novick, Ph.D. is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and an expert in the field of Anger Management. He has written numerous articles for magazines and Internet sites. Dr. Novick is the co-author of “Anger Management for the Twenty-first Century”, a highly sought after model for Anger Management intervention. For more information on Dr. Novick or the AJ Novick Group please visit www.ajnovickgroup.com or for online anger management classes visit www.angerclassonline.com

Trauma is one thing that is totally not a big news among many people. A lot have experienced it and a lot are still going thru and battling it. It may be caused by a loss of someone thru death, a near death experience, an accident or probably a relationship problem.

There are five known beginning steps in dealing with trauma and here they are:
1. Take control of your life. After a traumatic incident, you will feel that you no longer have control over your own life. Take this control back. Take your time. It does not have to happen all in a flash.

2. Talk to people. A good way to get around a problem or a traumatic event is to share this burden to others. Acceptance and acknowledgement that there is a problem is a good way to get over the trauma.

3. Develop close relationship with another person. Try to trust someone. Because of a traumatic experience, you may feel that nobody cares and there is no one you can trust. If you feel something special with someone, try to trust them. Again, this do not have to happen immediately. Take your time until you are ready.

4. Work with a counselor or a group. Whenever you have the time, it is good to be with people who you know can be of great help to you. Some professional help would not hurt.

5. Develop a plan. You know what is best for you and try to accomplish the things that you have written.

Is it hard for you to tell when risky behavior becomes a problem?

They say that if you place a frog in a pot of water and begin to heat the pot, the frog will boil to death without even realizing it. Conversely, if you throw a frog into a pot of boiling water, the frog will make a quick exit. Now that I have sufficiently terrified my animal rights friends, let me place a much deeper context to the above metaphor.

When does drinking become a problem?

Messages of “enjoyable” drinking are all around us - the media: television, radio, and newspapers. It’s common for most social engagements to have alcohol available. It’s almost too common that many activities include alcohol. Too easily we become like the frog in the pot of water slowly coming to a boil. Before we know it, we’re at problem levels. How do we get a reality check on the water temperature before drinking is a problem?

How can you tell problem drinking?

Problem drinking is a broader category than alcoholism. There’s a continuum of risk associated with different levels of drinking. Like the frog metaphor, when we’re around drinking all the time, it can be difficult to discriminate change in levels of risk. Here’s a model that helps:

At Risk (Risky Drinking)

• Any drinking pattern puts us at some risk for an alcohol problem
• No current negative consequences
• Low risk for potential adverse consequences

Mild to Moderate (Problem Drinking)

• The range of mild to moderate alcohol problem

• When one experiences an adverse consequence due to drinking behavior

Moderate to Severe (Alcohol Abuse)

• Role impairment
• Hazardous use
• Recurrent legal problems related to alcohol
• Social or interpersonal problems due to alcohol

Severe (Alcohol Dependence)

• Increased tolerance
• Signs or symptoms of withdrawal
• Drinking more or longer than intended
• Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to control use
• Decreased activities due to alcohol (social, work, recreational)
• Use despite knowledge of physical or psychological consequences

A bit clinical, but useful

Each category melds into the next with little definition. Consistent Moderate to Severe drinking has a significant negative effect on the physical body. Alcoholism is a disease. Enough alcohol over time increases the risk of alcoholism and health problems. The higher on the scale, obviously, the more risk for the problem drinker. But don’t forget about you and your family. When the risk goes up for the problem drinker it also increases the potential risk for the family.

Maybe you’re apprehensive to reach out?

First, I want to acknowledge that for someone who doesn’t easily ask for help, reaching out is no small task.

If the problem has been going on for a while, I’m guessing that however you’ve been handling it is your attempt at remedying the situation. It’s human nature for us to use strategies we believe will get our needs met. However, if the strategy you’ve been using hasn’t been working you probably need to use another strategy. When we look at this last statement from our head, it’s easy to say, “This just makes sense.” But we’re not just our head. For us to take action our head needs to make peace with our heart and gut.

The point is, just because it’s easy to understand in your head doesn’t mean it’s easy to do. Of course, it’s not at all easy. But if you want to make a change, it’s not likely to happen without your taking the first step.

What would need to happen so you really knew the time to act is now?

Remember the story at the beginning: If you place a frog in a pot of water and begin to heat the pot, the frog will boil to death without even realizing it.

Don’t let it happen to you.

Alcohol is the number one family problem

The good news is you’re not alone. The bad news is that alcohol is so prevalent on media and in our culture that it’s normalized. If it’s a problem for you, it’s worth you taking consistent steps towards improving it.

Others have done it and you can to!

To summarize, it’s difficult to assess drinking around you. The prevalence of alcohol in our culture and media creates an illusion of normalcy, when in fact there are levels of risk associated with drinking. There are risks to the drinker and risks to the family.

You can decrease the risk to your family.

Jeff Jones

Lafayette, Colorado

www.familyinabottle.com

PERCEPTION THERAPY®

Written and Developed by
Alan Meyers, Ph.D., NBSDCH., Diplomate and Julia D. Stewart, C.Y.I.,
Reiki Master

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT INTERNATIONAL, INC.
We Treat the Whole Person and the Cause
of the Problem, Not Just the Symptom?

Accredited by the
Joint Commission

The protocol for substance abuse and psycho-emotional disorders
treatment is making a major change. Developed by Alternative
Treatment International, Inc. (?A.T.I.?), this includes the use of
Perception Therapy® and Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® techniques
combined with other client focused clinical techniques and alternative
healing methods to affect change in perceptions, thinking, and
behaviors.

TREATING THE ADDICTIVE THINKING
AND/OR PSYCHO-EMOTIONAL BEHAVIORS

At A.T.I., our philosophy is to examine all aspects of the individual?
s life in a clinical and holistic way to determine the best course of
action to treat the whole person, and uncover and resolve the problem.
This is enhanced by employing Perception Therapy® and Mind-Body-Spirit-
Environment® techniques which are designed to raise the therapeutic
arsenal currently in use. We believe that the answers do not lie in
behaviors but in the thinking that produces the behaviors. Therefore,
we accept our clients? current behaviors in a non-judgmental,
compassionate way and take an indirective approach to changing
perception and thinking, rather than the standard direct approach
aimed at changing behaviors. Treating only the behavior does not
address the cause of the problem as behaviors do not just happen by
themselves. Thought (the Mind) produces behaviors as well as emotions,
both being positive and negative.

Many addictive and psycho-emotional behaviors are a result of
psychological, physical, spiritual, and environmental issues in regard
to the individual, and can be successfully treated utilizing a variety
of clinical techniques combined with alternative methods. In some
cases, medication management may be indicated and can be a helpful
adjunct to the therapeutic process. Client success can also be
improved if the client?s belief system embraces holistic healing
methods.

Rather than employing a directive and controlling approach that may
produce a defensive attitude by the client and hamper the change
process, our indirective and metaphorical techniques allow the client
to come to his/her own conclusion. This yields a more productive
therapeutic result, not only in the clients? thinking, but in their
behaviors, sobriety and recovery as well.

Our staff views each client as an individual who is coping with his/
her life in the ways that they know. We support their choice to enter
a residential setting to obtain guidance and learn new ways of
perceiving and thinking. Clients who enter treatment have recognized
that their current ways of thinking and behaving are getting in the
way of their happiness. They may also not want to lose their vested
interests (i.e., family, home, business) and are willing to do
something about changing their present situation.

In light of this, we find that it is possible to obtain successful
results when treating the addictive thinking and/or psycho-emotional
behaviors utilizing the unique therapeutic processes developed by
A.T.I., that addresses the whole person and underlying causes, not
just the symptom.

BY CHANGING PERCEPTION ? THINKING WILL CHANGE

For an individual to discontinue substance use or other self-
destructive patterns and begin a recovery process, one must be open to
the philosophy that will bring him/her to their own conclusion and
learn to affect change. This can be achieved through the process of
changing perceptions and thinking.

Most people accept the basic concept that there is always another way
to view things. Once a certain way of thinking as been formed in an
individual, it generally requires applied therapeutic techniques to
open the mind to accept a change in perception.

By treating the thinking as the primary therapeutic target, the client
is given the opportunity to decipher their formed perceptions to be
true or false. These may have manifested the dysfunctional thinking
which has produced the behaviors that are interfering with a healthy
lifestyle. Once clarity has occurred regarding the formed
perceptions, the therapeutic processes of making a positive change of
thinking are easily accepted by the client. This allows the client to
come to a productive conclusion because perceiving and thinking are
being internalized in a new way. These perceptions, which have now
changed, allow clearer thinking to occur and positive choices to be
made, resulting in an automatic change in behavior.

WHEN THINKING CHANGES,
BEHAVIORS WILL CHANGE BY THEMSELVES

Thinking must change for behavior to change. ?When thinking changes,
behaviors will change by themselves.? Understanding this simple
concept, it appears a waste of time to spend our efforts on trying to
help or force people to improve their behaviors. It has proven not to
work, and hence, relapse continues. As we have seen, clients do not
appear to recover from their addictive behaviors as they do with many
other disorders. Even if they discontinue their substance use, many
continue to be unhappy, unfulfilled, depressed and continue to
experience life problems, because their thought process remains a
result of their perceptions. We see this every day, even with clients
who have spent months in rehabilitation programs, in therapy of one
kind or another, and with counselors who promote a variety of
techniques.

MIND IS THE MAKER and will always produce the thinking and emotions
that are productive or unproductive for all of us. How then do we
assist people in changing their thinking? Helping people to think
differently is a complex process, but is an attainable goal. By
uncovering and resolving the underlying causes of the problems
utilizing A.T.I.?s Perception Therapy® and Mind-Body-Spirit-
Environment® approaches, healing of the whole person, not just the
symptom, occurs and the result is hope, peace and happiness. Relapse,
substance abuse, behavioral problems, anti-social acting out, low self-
esteem, feelings of hopelessness, helplessness and worthlessness are
removed as the perceptions and thoughts have transformed.

PERCEPTION THERAPY® and MIND-BODY-SPIRIT-ENVIRONMENT®
APPROACHES WORK BY PRODUCING A CHANGE IN THINKING

Thinking begins with “Perception”. We perceive in the way that we
have been taught to perceive. Our perceptions about ourselves,
others, and life around us, begin at birth and continue throughout
life. Perception for most is equal to truth. Whether the taught
perception is true or not, makes no difference. The only thing that
matters is that, ?I was told or taught this by a perceived reliable
source, or read this, so it must be true?. Therefore, one perceives in
a certain way which formulates one to think in a certain way, causing
one to behave in a particular way. For the individual, the resulting
behavior may be positive or negative, productive or unproductive, all
depending on how one was taught to perceive and think. We must
recognize that the perceptions we are being taught are actually
someone else’s, not our own, and these perceptions were taught to them
by someone else. Are their perceptions true, or are they just
perceptions that they have been taught by well-meaning or even
misguided individuals who have also been taught by others?

Part of the therapeutic goal is to examine the perceptions one has
about Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® and how those perceptions produce
thinking. Perception Therapy® reviews those perceptions throughout
the therapeutic process and as those perceptions change, we witness
changes in thinking, which in turn brings hope to the client. When a
change in thinking produces a new view, all things are possible
including lifestyle change, recovery, sobriety, happiness and success.

EXAMPLES OF PERCEPTION CHANGE REGARDING
MIND, BODY, SPIRIT and ENVIRONMENT

Mind ?

It has been estimated that over ten million Americans suffer from
depression. This alarming statistic proves that changes must be made
to better treat and prevent depression. Because the symptoms of
depression have many variables contributing to the discomfort, aside
from or along with the possibility of a chemical imbalance, it is
necessary to treat depression with a diverse treatment plan that
focuses on the whole person.

Depressive symptoms are typically categorized in the DSM IV by
depressed mood, loss of interest in daily activities, weight loss,
insomnia, and feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. With this
diagnostic method, symptoms are neatly packaged, diagnosed, and
treated most often with a variety of anti-depressant medications that
are designed to alleviate or diminish symptoms.

Although medications in some cases of depression may be helpful if the
individual believes in the process, it is believed that this
traditional course of treatment masks symptoms and is not designed to
uncover and resolve the cause of the problems which may include:
biological, psychological, psycho-emotional, situational,
environmental, or spiritual areas.

At A.T.I., depression accompanied by alcohol and/or other forms of
drug abuse is seen frequently. What this addictive behavior indicates
is that either depression is a causal factor in substance abuse, or
that the substance abuse is producing the depression. The therapists
at A.T.I. are well versed in treating co-occurring disorders such as
substance abuse and depression. By addressing this combination from a
spiritual standpoint, it is important to recognize that the substance
abuse reinforces selfish behaviors which deter people from recognizing
their true nature or inner self. As the person gains recognition
through a change in perception as being more selfless, the closer they
come to their true nature and their feelings of hopelessness are
replaced with renewed hope.

Those that attempt to understand the origins of depression and
depressive symptoms cannot ignore that the one common symptom is the
concept of ?loss of hope?. Hope is not biological, bio-chemical,
psychological, or environmental. Rather, it is a spiritual concept
that cannot be ignored in the treatment of depression. Therefore, it
should be at the forefront of the predominant clinical protocol of the
treatment plan for the client who suffers from depression with a co-
occurring disorder.

When changes in perception and a spiritual understanding are
introduced into the life of a person experiencing depressive symptoms,
the depressive symptoms begin to lift, sometimes immediately. For
every human being, the spiritual concept of ?hope? is the one concept
that intuitively keeps us going. Combining perception changes and
spiritual healing to address the symptoms of depression can help lift
the depressive feelings, and bring hope and a feeling of purpose to a
person who has lost that.

It is an interesting observation that people perceive the concept of
depression in many different ways. Some may suffer from a true
diagnosis of depressive disorder while others magnify a minor
biorhythm change or transient feeling of malaise as depression.
(perception) Their thinking then becomes one of a depressed
individual and their mannerisms are seen as lack of energy or
disinterest. (behavior)

The approach at A.T.I. toward all true or perceived depressive
feelings is to assist the client to think of themselves as healthy and
project affirmations in terms of wellness rather than sickness. As
the Mind produces all thought, perceptions about one?s feelings may
change through positive awareness relative to Mind-Body-Spirit-
Environment® (thinking), resulting in behaviors that demonstrate a
person who speaks of and believes in well-being.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Trauma, another example, is a common occurrence that produces negative
perceptions, thinking and behaviors. Traumas may affect both the
conscious and subconscious parts of the mind, produce perceptions
which may be consciously recognized or kept hidden in the subconscious
and continue to influence thinking. Traumas do not always have to be
horrific to be life changing events, although they certainly can be.
Examples may include physical, sexual, emotional abuse, loss of loved
one, automobile accident, etc. However, traumas may also be small,
seemingly insignificant events that may also cause perceptions and
thinking, and years later may manifest into unwanted or at least
misunderstood behaviors.

Families have probably the greatest potential for creating positive
self-esteem, feelings of self-worth and self-love in their children.
Families also have the greatest potential to produce traumatized, self-
defeating individuals who may develop drug, alcohol or psycho-
emotional disorders to be able to
cope with the traumas inflicted on them by family members. Of course,
these same dysfunctions may not necessarily be caused by family but in
many cases, traumas of self-concepts could be imbedded in childhood or
adolescent minds by friends, television, magazines, religion,
misguided teachers, etc.

Some traumas are caused by catastrophic events and people deal with
these traumatic events in a variety of ways, both positive and
negative. Unfortunately, many do not have knowledge of therapeutic
interventions or have family support to seek out appropriate
therapeutic interventions. Without help, the results may be the use
of easily accessible drugs, alcohol or psychiatric medications to cope
with the emotional pain.

In the case of family induced traumas, the same catastrophic results
may be produced. They may occur as a one time event or repeated
traumas over an extended period of time. A one time traumatic event
might be, for example, a sexual abuse episode, a physical beating,
abandonment, divorce of parents, or even an illness. The more
insidious types of traumas may occur over and over for years.
Examples may include repeated abuse episodes or beatings and even
being told, ?you are not as smart as your brother,? ?you are built
just like your grandmother (who may be overweight),? ?you are bad?, ?
your sister got all the talent,? and more, by parents, siblings,
grandparents, etc. All of these traumas that are produced by family
can and do cause life long damage.

At A.T.I., we see a large percentage of clients that present a problem
of alcohol, drug abuse or emotional problems, but also suffer from
feelings of low self-esteem and low self-worth. Clients relate how as
children, they were told that they were ?no good?, ?worthless?, ?
dumb?, ?not wanted?, ?a pain?, etc. (perception) This may have lead
them to consciously try to ?find an identity? through friends, style
of dress, hair, speech patterns (all typically dysfunctional), or
subconsciously view him/herself in the negative terms that were
directed at them. (thinking) The result is an undesired lifestyle
including addiction, depression, anxiety, anti-social behaviors,
anger, dysfunctional relationships, and other emotional disorders; all
confirming the negative perceptions and thinking which they have about
themselves. (behavior)

Through therapeutic intervention which focuses on treating the whole
person and uncovering the underlying cause of the problem, not just
the symptom, clients are given the opportunity to learn to perceive
themselves as worthwhile individuals. As a result, thinking will
begin to change and allow productive and acceptable behaviors to
become evident.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Phobias (irrational fears) are another example of perception
influencing thinking and producing undesired behaviors. Consider a
person who expresses fear of flying in an airplane. We witnessed this
fear on a rather large scale after the tragedy of 911. Although
statistics demonstrate airline safety, people perceived from the 911
incident that air travel was unsafe. (perception) The fear that there
was a possibility of an airliner on which they might fly would be
hijacked caused people to resist flying and

the airlines to increase security, making travel more difficult.
(thinking) This created lower numbers in air travel for a period of
time after the 911 event. (behavior) As the fear about airline safety
abated and as the acceptance of airline security became a reality
(perception), thinking changed and the public returned to a pre-911
flying level. (behavior)

At A.T.I., the goal is for clients to learn to live without fear about
life or relapse. We all know that most people struggle with relapse
in recovery. Preventing relapse is one of the most important aspects
in recovery. Living in fear greatly hampers recovery and sobriety, and
is not necessary. The purpose of our therapeutic techniques is to
treat the whole person along with resolving the underlying causes of
the addictive thinking and emotional disorders. With the positive
tools provided and combined with practicing a heightened awareness,
clients have the opportunity to experience a life that does not
include fear-based thinking and/or relapse.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

A different example of perception having been taught is one involving
prejudice. We all know that people are not born with a prejudice
against skin color, religions, language, size and weight, life
position, and so many others. Everyone is aware of the prejudice and
bigotry that is displayed by nations. Often, these expressions of
hatred come from children. Where did these children learn those
perceptions? It is obvious that their thinking is one of taught
hatred and bigotry. Their behavior and language promote this
distorted perception and thinking, and the prejudice and bigotry
continue.

At A.T.I., a part of the therapeutic process is to assist clients,
from a spiritual standpoint, to view all people as equal including
those that suffer from drug and alcohol abuse, and emotional
disorders. (perception) As clients begin to affect this perception
change, they may become more tolerant of others (thinking) and begin
to demonstrate increased acceptance and understanding for all people
no matter what skin color, religion, size and weight, or style of life
they follow. (behavior) With an increased level of tolerance for
others, the level of acceptance and understanding for oneself is also
raised. This provides a sense of connection rather than isolation and
is a positive concept that aids in the healing process.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® uses individualized clinical and
holistic treatment techniques to specifically address the areas that
affect addictive thinking and psycho-emotional behaviors. This
protocol addresses the Mind: uncovering possible situations that may
be causing the perceptions and thinking, and detecting the root cause
of the problem through psychotherapy; Body: incorporating structured
physical fitness and healthful eating habits to promote feelings of
health, strength and self-worth; Spirit: introducing spiritual
practices to assist in opening the mind up to possibilities,
practicing focus and clarity, and acceptance in terms of ?self?; and,
Environment: applying various methods such as design psychology and
Feng Shui to heal the environment in which one lives as part of the
essential combination of therapy techniques necessary to promote the
most effective, long-term healing. A.T.I. also provides Art Therapy
to bring about perceived environmental healing through creative
expression.

Body ?

Body image, looks, size, proportion and specific body parts, and how
they are perceived may indeed cause considerable dysfunction in one?s
life. Eating disorders may be the culmination of such perceptions.
It is difficult for many people to understand a case in which a young
female who binges and purges to the point of decreasing body weight to
dangerously low levels can look in a mirror and perceive herself as ?
fat?. Another example might include a person who is overweight and
perceives absolutely no way out of the depression he/she feels due to
the repeated failures to lose the extra weight.

People that suffer from substance abuse and emotional problems may
take a distorted view of themselves and their bodies. (perception)
When a person is actively in their negative emotional state,
addiction, or on a binge, for example, they lack regard for themselves
in many fundamental ways (thinking). The result may be a poor diet,
disturbed sleep, lack of hygiene, self-harming or other destructive
acts. (behavior) This thinking creates a run down, unhealthy, unfit,
tired individual who has difficulty getting him/herself out of the
negative emotional state or addictive patterns.

Overall physical health is an important component of the total
healing package. An addictive lifestyle takes its toll on the body as
well as the mind, spirit and environment. At A.T.I., we provide ample
opportunity to conduct the different types of exercises that will
improve fitness, practice meditation and breathwork, and learn healthy
eating and living habits; all bringing about a sense of healing, self-
esteem, and physical improvement.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® uses holistic treatment techniques to
specifically address the areas that affect perceptions regarding body
image. This clinical protocol addresses the Mind: addressing these
types of physical perceptions in terms of the causative factor, which
may have their origin in possible traumas or feelings of low self-
esteem. The therapeutic process must include examining the learned
perceptions from the experienced traumas or low self-esteem in order
for the thinking and behavior to change; Body: incorporating
nutritional recommendations with structured physical fitness; Spirit:
implementing spiritual practices such as meditation, yoga, T?ai Chi,
and building self-esteem; and, Environment: applying techniques and
educational methods to improve one?s awareness of the environment and
raise consciousness on how these techniques may aide in the self
healing process. Some methods of raising consciousness about one?s
environment may include using non-toxic body and cleaning products,
buying from and supporting companies that demonstrate environmentally
safe practices, and caring for and being concerned with one?s own
living environment. Through this mindful practice of purchasing and
using non-toxic products, the body benefits in improved health and
well-being.

Spirit ?

Spirituality may be perceived by some as only obtainable through the
church or some other form of organized religion. When this is the
perception, the person may eliminate other possibilities of obtaining
a spiritual understanding from any other view point. The truth is
that there are a great many available sources that may offer and
provide a spiritual understanding, spiritual practice, sense of
connection, or profound life changing experiences if one were open to
perceiving other options.

We learn about the creative forces primarily from our families.
(perception) One must be aware that religion is man made and
spirituality is manifested and conveyed to each individual by his/her
perception of their inner self. Some may consider God, Universal
Consciousness or Life Force, Yahweh, Allah, Supreme Being, and so on.
(thinking) How one signifies this perception is not important. It is
the recognition of a creative force and its participation within each
individual that has the impact.

Take for example the perception that one may have of him/herself as a
spiritual person. If one perceives as a spiritual person who follows
their inner guidance and knows that they are connected to everything,
their thinking and behavior may be different from someone who enters a
church for spiritual guidance. One may find spirituality in organized
religion (behavior), depending on their purpose and intent, or
anywhere else they may choose where they can make the connection with
their perception of the creative force. Purpose and intent is the key
concept here. For example, if one attends church every Sunday to be
in a spiritual environment and have a contact with their creator, then
their purpose and intent are correct as they perceive spirituality.
Another example might be an indigenous person who lives primitively
without knowledge of churches or spiritual centers. If this person
has a ?oneness? with flora and fauna, is cooperative, loving and
caring, and has a conscious contact with his/her creator or inner
self, he/she could certainly be perceived as a spiritual person.

Perception Therapy® examines one?s conscious thinking about how
spirituality is perceived, where this was taught and by whom, and how
these perceptions formed the thinking and behaviors one possesses. At
A.T.I., we provide access to daily spiritual exercises including
meditation to give the clients an opportunity to recognize how they
perceive themselves in the spiritual sense or ?true self?. Through
this, thinking may change as one sees him/herself in a different
light. The behaviors will then begin to change as the individual
begins to act as a loving, caring, mindful, cooperative and productive
person, whose consciousness has been elevated by their understanding
or clarity of their ?spirituality? and how to apply that to their
daily life.

A spiritual practice that many are becoming familiar with is
meditation, but may be viewed differently by most people. Some may
think of meditating as difficult, that there is a correct way to
meditate, or that they cannot concentrate because they have been
diagnosed with ADD, etc. (perception) These are only perceptions of
truth, not actual truth. When one retains these perceptions of
meditation, their ?thinking? will not allow attempts at quiet focused
contemplation and so, they do not even try. (behavior) Here, we guide
clients into their individual experience with the practice of
meditation which assists in the healing process. Each day can present
a different way in which to meditate depending upon sleep, scheduling,
emotions, etc. and also how one perceives the events of their day.
If one believes that they are experiencing stress (perception), then
he/she may choose to sit quietly with the

eyes closed, focusing in on the breath to bring peace of mind
(thinking), and then return to the daily activities in a calm,
rational state. (behavior) Or, depending upon the level of emotions,
one may choose to go for a brief walk while practicing positive
affirmations or spend a few minutes journaling (meditation in
motion). The result is a change in perception of the situation,
clearer thoughts, and a more desired behavior.

Through a variety of methods, A.T.I. guides each client toward their
individual understanding of spirit or ?self-realization?. This is
also attained utilizing the Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® approach.
Mind: clinical therapy designed to transform the clients? thinking and
produce positive, productive behaviors. A.T.I. teaches the practice
of meditation which opens the mind allowing insights, as well as
providing education of alternative healing practices. Through these
experiences, clients come to their own conclusion about how they
perceive their spirituality and how they can apply that to their life;
Body: Gaining awareness about the body being a vehicle for the soul
and therefore needs to be respected and cared for with a spiritual
mindset. In order for people to move forward in their recovery and
lives, attending to their physical health from a spiritual standpoint
helps to build self-esteem, provide energy and allow for clearer
thinking. Spirit: At A.T.I., clients are viewed as spiritual beings
that deserve to be happy, at peace, hopeful and productive. We
understand that people deal with situations, experiences, and
emotional issues from what they have learned throughout life. We
strive to guide clients into their own personal experience of
accepting and understanding why they are perceiving, thinking, and
behaving as they do and have in the past, with a compassionate, non-
judgmental, and respectful mindset; Environment: A major determinant
in recovery and relapse prevention is training the mind to be
constantly aware of making good choices. One of the techniques that
A.T.I. teaches to help raise awareness is to be mindful about one?s
environment. Being mindful about the environment helps to be mindful
about oneself and the recovery process. Through the practice of
raising one?s level of awareness, relapse never has to occur. The
environment, meaning one?s immediate living space and the global
environment as well, and how one perceives and thinks about these,
plays an important role in the way one behaves and how one chooses to
live. Practicing a positive way of perceiving one?s environment and
taking the necessary steps to heal that environment, can result in a
change of thinking and in turn a change of behavior.

Environment ?

The perception of one?s immediate living environment as well as the
more global environment and how this perception may or may not impact
on his/her healing and healing process is an area that may be
overlooked or not recognized by many. A change in perception about
viewing the environment, as another part of the healing process, needs
to occur because the environment directly impacts everyone. At
A.T.I., clients will learn to perceive how healing the environment can
help to heal their ?self?. The goal of our Perception Therapy® and
Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® approaches are to produce perception
changes, raise the level of thinking, and change behaviors. When
perceptions about the environment change, the resulting behaviors
toward the environment begin to change. This shift in thinking
assists the clients in their healing process by raising their level of
awareness.

Implementing positive choices and behaviors to make an impact one?s
immediate environment as well as the global environment to heal
oneself might include:

- keeping the air that one breaths clean
- purchasing environmentally safe products for daily necessities
- disposing of waste by composting or recycling
- not polluting the environment and the earth
- conserving water used for daily living
- purchasing local, natural, organic foods
- supporting causes that are environmentally friendly or ones that
conserve resources
- practicing conservation methods as they relate to energy,
transportation, pollutants in the air/sea/land
- research and implement Feng Shui techniques

By learning and practicing these concepts, philosophies and behaviors
in regard to environment, people suffering from addictions and/or
psycho-emotional disorders can learn to move beyond their limited
awareness, expand their minds and change their perceptions about
healing methods to include healing the environment.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

When we teach clients to change their perceptions utilizing the
Perception Therapy ® and Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® approaches,
addiction and emotional relapses do not have to occur or get in the
way of recovery. People can live happy, healthy, and productive lives
without living in fear that they will turn to dysfunctional thinking
and behaviors at any moment. The occurrence of relapse is only a
perception, not a reality. Anyone has the ability to change their
perception, thinking, behavior and reality.

The authors can be contacted at Alternative Treatment International,
Clearwater, Florida
info@alternative2rehab.com
www.alternative2rehab.com
www.mbse.org
1-800-897-8060
Perception Therapy® and Mind-Body-Spirit-Environment® are Registered
Trademarks of Alternative Treatment International, Inc.

HOW TO CHANGE PERCEPTION, THINKING AND BEHAVIOR

1. Begin to open your mind to new concepts.
2. Question, rather than just accept what is being told.
3. Admit to new possibilities.
4. Acknowledge that not everything is either black and white.
5. Understand that what one may believe to be true may just be someone
else?s
truth.

6. Adopt new ways of viewing one?s own specific situation.
7. Recognize that people behave in the way that they think.
8. Explore philosophies and theories that may help to change the way
one perceives.
9. Realize that what works for one may not work for all.
10. Show willingness to recognize a change in perception when it occurs.
11. Seek spiritual enlightenment and understanding.
12. Gain acceptance that the Mind, Body, Spirit, and Environment are
all connected.
13. Gain acceptance that we all have an impact on one another and the
environment and that in seeking healing for yourself, you are helping
another.

14. Become aware of your impact/input on your immediate environment
and the global environment.

15. Continually practice building awareness by reviewing your
perceptions, thinking and behaviors.

A.T.I.
1-800-897-8060
info@alternative2rehab.com
www.alternative2rehab.com
www.mbse.org
www.organictennis.net
This e-mail is powered by 100% wind energy!
The above email is for intended recipient only and may be confidential
and
protected health information. If you are not the intended recipient,
please
advise the sender immediately. Unauthorized use or distribution is
prohibited
and may be unlawful.

by: Eric Bryant of gnosisarts.com

Metaphysics is the branch of philosophy dealing with ultimate reality. It asks us hard questions about the nature and genesis of the physical universe world. Although these questions are obviously unanswerable from a scientific standpoint, the answers individuals supply to them are of great importance from a psychological standpoint.

Common metaphysical questions deal with the existence of God, the nature of spirit or spiritual realities, and questions concerning the basic constituents of existence. As such, metaphysics is important in counseling. To truly be holistic in our counseling methods and theories, we as practitioners, psychologists,
psychotherapists and other counselors must appreciate the powerful effect an individual’s metaphysical beliefs shape her choices and outlook. Crucial matters such as religious affiliation, spiritual beliefs, and religious upbringing must be taken into consideration if the counselor would truly be in position to help our
clients.