INTRODUCING A TRANSPERSONAL, SPIRITUAL, HEALING FRAMEWORK FOR THE AFTERMATH OF TRAUMA

This article introduces a transpersonal spiritual framework describing the process of transformation and healing that may be experienced in the aftermath of trauma. The spiritual framework embraces four iterative processes: holding and containing, letting go and expanding, accepting and transforming, and embracing spirituality that may be used to provide guidance when working with individuals who have experienced trauma. A basic assumption underpinning the framework suggests that trauma survivors have within themselves a core essence/spiritual self that enables them to establish a post-trauma identity that eventually re-connects them with the natural flow of life allowing them to live fully. Ultimately, this spiritual framework offers clinicians with a holistic lens for viewing and treating individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives