The therapist's voice

Abstract

Healing remains one of the genuine mysteries of life. Throughout history, artists, poets, writers, and healers have grappled with the question of what heals. Psychotherapy is a relative newcomer to this quest because, as therapists, ours is the work of healing. Ancient healers spoke of creating moments of “spiritual transmission,” where a personal connection to the sacred is a crucial factor in healing. I have, at times, felt privileged to be a participant and witness to extraordinary moments of spiritual connection. Cultivating an appreciation of the healing power of the spiritual is explored in this article. As therapists, it is our own lives that are our greatest teachers. My relationship with my sister-in-law, Shira Ruskay, has drawn me into a deeper appreciation of the spiritual. As a young woman, a life-threatening battle with Hodgkin's disease left an indelible impression on Shira's mind, body, and soul. Surviving cancer, Shira was first and foremost a fighter. From an early age she had a rare appreciation of the fragility of life. Never totally free from the worry that haunts most survivors, Shira nonetheless developed a unique zest and passion for growth, a deep relatedness and ability to explore her soul. Just past 50, cancer has struck once again. Her fight for her life permeates many aspects of my heart, my mind, my self, including my psychotherapist self. What enters our lives, enters our work; this article explores how spirituality has entered and deepened my work.