Focusing (psychotherapy)

Focusing is an internally oriented psychotherapeutic process developed by psychotherapist Eugene Gendlin. It can be used in any kind of therapeutic situation, including peer-to-peer sessions. It involves holding a specific kind of open, non-judging attention to an internal knowing which is experienced but is not yet in words. Focusing can, among other things, be used to become clear on what one feels or wants, to obtain new insights about one's situation, and to stimulate change or healing of the situation.[1] Focusing is set apart from other methods of inner awareness by three qualities: something called the "felt sense", a quality of engaged accepting attention, and a research-based technique that facilitates change.[2]

  1. ^ Cornell, Ann Weiser; McGavin, Barbara (2002). The focusing student's and companion's manual. Vol. 1 (1st ed.). Berkeley, CA: Calluna Press. ISBN 0972105808. OCLC 50431925.
  2. ^ Cornell, Ann Weiser; McGavin, Barbara (2005). The radical acceptance of everything: living a focusing life. Berkeley, CA: Calluna Press. p. 13. ISBN 0972105832. OCLC 63119783.