Counseling Practice
Calming the busy mind and the troubled heart
Principal Areas of Focus
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Relationship -
Life-threatening Illness
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Spiritual / Existential Desolation (2)
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Anger Management
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Adult Survivors of Childhood Abuse
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PSD and Post Traumatic Growth
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Anxiety Related Conditions
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Chronic Pain Management
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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
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Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
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Intimacy and Sexuality
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Separation, Loss and Grief
I work with individuals, couples and groups. I am also available for educational programs, presentations, and workshops for individuals, healthcare professionals, educators and clergy.
About My Practice
My work is grounded in the fundamentals of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and spiritual direction,(1) methods that have been proven effective for a broad range of applications.
I believe that we all have the nature to be the best we can, that there is more that works for us than doesn’t, and that what we may consider our neurosis is in fact a sign of our genius. By learning to see clearly and be free from delusion, we are able to realize our potential for wellness in mind and body. We develop the emotional resilience and insight to stay present and respond more appropriately to whatever circumstance arises.
By not trying to change anything, but by observing the mind, body, emotions and perceptions just as they are, we are able to hold what arises without judgment or identification. When mindfulness and insight regarding our direct experience come together in this way, mental, emotional and physical well-being is restored, stress and anxiety are reduced, and a tolerance for uncertainty and unpredictability is cultivated.
The changes necessary for joy and peace in our life can naturally flow from this place of wisdom and compassion.
Patrick Thornton, PhD
818 Cherry Street
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
Phone: (707) 584-8440
Email: mudita@patrickthornton.net
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(1) For a commentary on Spiritual Direction, click here.
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(2) For a commentary on Spiritual Desolation and Depression, click here
(3) Clinicians and mental health practitioners interested in reading about
“Grief Counseling, Psychotherapy and Spiritual Care,” click here.
Diplomate. ID# 12389. American Psychotherapy Association (4)
Counseling Practice
Counseling for Individuals with Life Threatening Illness & Their Families (3)
(home, weekend and evening availability)
“The Morning Fog Lifts”
Outside of pain, the number one fear a person person with a life threatening illness has is that be being a burden to their family. The reality is, when a family member has a life threatening illness, the whole family does. There may be a basis for this fear. The reality is, it is at time such as these that others must change their schedules and make special accommodations, difficult decisions must be made, and the possibilities of for loss extend to every aspect of their lives. Everyone’s life is affected. These are difficult waters to negotiate. Conflicted feelings arise because of the competing feelings of love and genuine caring and a desire to help are also present.
Finding resources to help address the psychological, spiritual, social and emotional needs are limited. These areas of concern are areas in which I have the training, understanding and close to 40 years of experience helping individuals work through. Appointments may be made for individual family members, or for the entire family in my office or at him. Times are available weekdays. In addition, Limited appoints times are available for weekends and evenings.
“Sunrise on Franks Track”
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Copyright 2010 © Patrick Thornton, all rights reserved.
Photography by Patrick Thornton