Altered states of consciousness within therapeutic modalities - exploring commonalities of experience
Consciousness, Spirituality & Transpersonal Psychology December 20, 2022 David Furlong 1 citation
Altered states of consciousness (ASC) involve deviations from normal psychological functioning, induced through meditation, psychoactive substances, or therapeutic hypnosis. This qualitative Grounded Theory pilot study, based on twelve interviews with trainers, practitioners, and clients from Hypnotherapy, Past-life Regression, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Soul-Centred Healing, explored commonalities across these modalities. Participants consistently reported a conviction in a transpersonal element of human consciousness that transcends physical life, viewing their ASC experiences as part of a journey toward higher states of consciousness. The research also highlighted the multiplicity of inner world elements, including sub-personalities, ego-states, or parts.