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Body-Centered Psychotherapy: The Hakomi Method : The Integrated Use of Mindfulness, Nonviolence and the Body
One of the seminal books in the body-centered movement in psychotherapy, the Hakomi Method integrates the use of mindfulness, nonviolence, meditation and holism into a highly original amalgam of therapeutic techniques. Hakomi work incorporates the idea of respect for the wisdom of each individual as a living organic system, organizing matter and energy to maintain its goals, and identity. It is written with clarity, humor and simplicity; sure to inspire and give insight to both therapists and laypersons.
210 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1990
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 28, 2012
Excellent overview of the Hakomi Method. I've heard about it for years, yet didn't realize it was a therapy that incorporated touch. In particular, I LOVE the story at the very end of the book, an add on, of how he knew he would become a psychotherapist. He was a brave man who gave much to the world of humanistic psychology. Yeah for trailblazers like Ron Kurtz.
The principles his work is based on are used in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which I am studying now. They are: Organicity or Living Systems, Mindfulness or the path of consciousness, Nonviolence or reverance for life, Mind-Body Holism and Unity or a participatory universe.
He quotes Gregory Bateson who is someone I've admired since my early days studying NLP. Pat Ogden is mentioned frequently in the book and she has evolved to develop Sensorimotor Psychotheray, which brought me to finally read this book.
It has me looking deeper at my own blocks. He uses a Sensitivity Cycle: Clarity, Effectiveness, Satisfaction and finally Relaxation. And each of these can be blocked by patterns that have been deeply engrained from an early age into our procedural learning. So for Clairty the block is a Insight barrier, for Effectiveness the block is a Response barrier, somewhere between Effectiveness and Satisfaction there can also be a Function barrier, for Satisfaction the block is a Nourishment barrier, for Relaxation the block is a Completion barrier. What does all this really mean? He explains it in detail. These blocks are so deep that they follow the psychopsysics law called Weber-Fechner Law, which states "the level of signal you can detect is dependent on the backgroung noise. The more background noise, the more signal you will need." Hence he uses Mindfulness to quiet the noise.
I don't totally understand it, but I'm on the path, looking for a way to listen closely enough to change my own internal blocks and help others with theirs. I love his principles and how they make change possible in a very noisy world.
The principles his work is based on are used in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which I am studying now. They are: Organicity or Living Systems, Mindfulness or the path of consciousness, Nonviolence or reverance for life, Mind-Body Holism and Unity or a participatory universe.
He quotes Gregory Bateson who is someone I've admired since my early days studying NLP. Pat Ogden is mentioned frequently in the book and she has evolved to develop Sensorimotor Psychotheray, which brought me to finally read this book.
It has me looking deeper at my own blocks. He uses a Sensitivity Cycle: Clarity, Effectiveness, Satisfaction and finally Relaxation. And each of these can be blocked by patterns that have been deeply engrained from an early age into our procedural learning. So for Clairty the block is a Insight barrier, for Effectiveness the block is a Response barrier, somewhere between Effectiveness and Satisfaction there can also be a Function barrier, for Satisfaction the block is a Nourishment barrier, for Relaxation the block is a Completion barrier. What does all this really mean? He explains it in detail. These blocks are so deep that they follow the psychopsysics law called Weber-Fechner Law, which states "the level of signal you can detect is dependent on the backgroung noise. The more background noise, the more signal you will need." Hence he uses Mindfulness to quiet the noise.
I don't totally understand it, but I'm on the path, looking for a way to listen closely enough to change my own internal blocks and help others with theirs. I love his principles and how they make change possible in a very noisy world.
August 11, 2021
I read this book because I am in school to be a therapist, and I am exploring various therapeutic modalities to integrate in my practice. I found the content of this book very interesting, and the breakdown of the process comprehensive.
However, in alignment with some other reviews I've seen here, I must give this book 4/5 stars because of the terrible editing job. It made parts of the book confusing and hard to read. Hopefully those issues can be fixed in a new version.
However, in alignment with some other reviews I've seen here, I must give this book 4/5 stars because of the terrible editing job. It made parts of the book confusing and hard to read. Hopefully those issues can be fixed in a new version.
December 18, 2024
Me gusta mucho la forma de pensar del autor; leer su libro me ha iluminado en muchos sentidos, y también me ha dejado pensando en diferentes cosas.
Gracias a Kurtz entiendo más la importancia de la plenitud de conciencia. Entendí que es indispensable durante las sesiones terapéuticas no sólo por parte del cliente para conseguir evocar experiencias y entrar en lo profundo de sí mismo sino también por parte del terapeuta, para poder estar totalmente presente en el aquí y ahora con el cliente, lo que le permite escuchar con mayor atención, saber esperar el momento apropiado para intervenir con alguna afirmación de contacto, tener la habilidad de identificar alguna técnica o “experimento” que podría ayudar al cliente, etc. Como terapeuta, es algo que estoy tratando de practicar diariamente hasta lograr hacerlo un hábito, como propone el autor.
Agradezco mucho que el autor introdujera o descubriera el trabajo con la niña interior (al escribir siento duda de si realmente él lo introdujo pero es lo que entendí al leer el libro). Yo misma he iniciado un proceso de diálogos y encuentros con mi niña interior en mi proceso terapéutico y posteriormente en mi vida diaria. El hecho de que nuestro niño interior siempre ha estado con nosotros se me hace uno de los descubrimientos más importantes. Me impresiona mucho darme cuenta de que si bien hay muchas cosas que como adulta entiendo, mi niña interior sigue con una idea diferente o en proceso de entender. He hecho el ejercicio que Ron Kurtz propone de observar a las personas en el tren o lugares similares para identificar a su niño interior, aunque aún no lo he logrado. Ésta es en mi opinión una de las herramientas más poderosas. Sobre este tema también quiero mencionar que en el libro, Kurtz menciona que cuando la niña está presente con su cliente, él le habla y toca como a una niña. Dice que incluso enjuga sus lágrimas, da abrazos o incluso ha llegado a sentar a clientes en sus piernas. Esto es algo de lo que no estoy muy convencida y tampoco creo hacerlo con mis clientes. Se me hace un poco extremo y tengo la sensación de que podría incomodar. No sé si al empezar a ejercer pueda cambiar de opinión. Me interesaría conocer la opinión de los maestros.
Las técnicas de sonda y hacerse cargo al principio me incomodaron y me llamaron mucho la atención; pero leyendo los beneficios que ha descubierto el autor y experimentándolo en clase, me ha empezado a gustar, aunque siento que para poder utilizarla como terapeuta necesitaría más experiencia y seguridad para aplicarla.
Veo mucha similitud entre la forma en que Kurtz trabaja con el cliente y la de Rogers. Con diferentes palabras (y alguna vez con las mismas referenciando a Rogers) Kurtz recibe a sus clientes con las tres actitudes siempre, la no violencia en este enfoque es algo indispensable y con lo que yo me siento identificada. Estoy convencida de que las tres actitudes son la clave para que una persona pueda tener la seguridad de entrar a un trabajo profundo consigo misma.
Me llama mucho la atención todo lo que nuestro cuerpo habla de nuestras emociones, también es algo que este libro hizo que empezara a observar con mayor detalle en mí misma y en otras personas. Nunca antes me había puesto a pensar en lo “unido” que están cuerpo y mente/emociones.
El libro también me servirá a futuro como guía para poder identificar con mayor facilidad abordajes posibles con los clientes con los que trabaje; en el resumen que hice guardé diferentes tablas donde enlista formas de abordaje para experiencias evocadas, cuándo utilizar afirmaciones de contacto, cómo ayudar al cliente a entrar en plenitud de conciencia, guías de cuándo utilizar diferentes técnicas, etc.
Como conclusión me gustaría decir que me da mucho gusto haber leído este libro pues me proporcionó varias herramientas que estoy segura me serán muy útiles en mi práctica, también me ayudó a entender con mayor profundidad técnicas que estudiamos en clase. Espero lograr tener la habilidad de Ron Kurtz y de mis maestros para acompañar a mis clientes de manera tal que pueda ser ese copiloto que buscan.
Gracias a Kurtz entiendo más la importancia de la plenitud de conciencia. Entendí que es indispensable durante las sesiones terapéuticas no sólo por parte del cliente para conseguir evocar experiencias y entrar en lo profundo de sí mismo sino también por parte del terapeuta, para poder estar totalmente presente en el aquí y ahora con el cliente, lo que le permite escuchar con mayor atención, saber esperar el momento apropiado para intervenir con alguna afirmación de contacto, tener la habilidad de identificar alguna técnica o “experimento” que podría ayudar al cliente, etc. Como terapeuta, es algo que estoy tratando de practicar diariamente hasta lograr hacerlo un hábito, como propone el autor.
Agradezco mucho que el autor introdujera o descubriera el trabajo con la niña interior (al escribir siento duda de si realmente él lo introdujo pero es lo que entendí al leer el libro). Yo misma he iniciado un proceso de diálogos y encuentros con mi niña interior en mi proceso terapéutico y posteriormente en mi vida diaria. El hecho de que nuestro niño interior siempre ha estado con nosotros se me hace uno de los descubrimientos más importantes. Me impresiona mucho darme cuenta de que si bien hay muchas cosas que como adulta entiendo, mi niña interior sigue con una idea diferente o en proceso de entender. He hecho el ejercicio que Ron Kurtz propone de observar a las personas en el tren o lugares similares para identificar a su niño interior, aunque aún no lo he logrado. Ésta es en mi opinión una de las herramientas más poderosas. Sobre este tema también quiero mencionar que en el libro, Kurtz menciona que cuando la niña está presente con su cliente, él le habla y toca como a una niña. Dice que incluso enjuga sus lágrimas, da abrazos o incluso ha llegado a sentar a clientes en sus piernas. Esto es algo de lo que no estoy muy convencida y tampoco creo hacerlo con mis clientes. Se me hace un poco extremo y tengo la sensación de que podría incomodar. No sé si al empezar a ejercer pueda cambiar de opinión. Me interesaría conocer la opinión de los maestros.
Las técnicas de sonda y hacerse cargo al principio me incomodaron y me llamaron mucho la atención; pero leyendo los beneficios que ha descubierto el autor y experimentándolo en clase, me ha empezado a gustar, aunque siento que para poder utilizarla como terapeuta necesitaría más experiencia y seguridad para aplicarla.
Veo mucha similitud entre la forma en que Kurtz trabaja con el cliente y la de Rogers. Con diferentes palabras (y alguna vez con las mismas referenciando a Rogers) Kurtz recibe a sus clientes con las tres actitudes siempre, la no violencia en este enfoque es algo indispensable y con lo que yo me siento identificada. Estoy convencida de que las tres actitudes son la clave para que una persona pueda tener la seguridad de entrar a un trabajo profundo consigo misma.
Me llama mucho la atención todo lo que nuestro cuerpo habla de nuestras emociones, también es algo que este libro hizo que empezara a observar con mayor detalle en mí misma y en otras personas. Nunca antes me había puesto a pensar en lo “unido” que están cuerpo y mente/emociones.
El libro también me servirá a futuro como guía para poder identificar con mayor facilidad abordajes posibles con los clientes con los que trabaje; en el resumen que hice guardé diferentes tablas donde enlista formas de abordaje para experiencias evocadas, cuándo utilizar afirmaciones de contacto, cómo ayudar al cliente a entrar en plenitud de conciencia, guías de cuándo utilizar diferentes técnicas, etc.
Como conclusión me gustaría decir que me da mucho gusto haber leído este libro pues me proporcionó varias herramientas que estoy segura me serán muy útiles en mi práctica, también me ayudó a entender con mayor profundidad técnicas que estudiamos en clase. Espero lograr tener la habilidad de Ron Kurtz y de mis maestros para acompañar a mis clientes de manera tal que pueda ser ese copiloto que buscan.
November 9, 2023
A Profound Journey into Self-Discovery - Review of "Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy" by Ron Kurtz
"Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy" by Ron Kurtz is a profound exploration of a therapeutic approach that delves deep into the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. This book offers an insightful and comprehensive guide to the Hakomi method, which emphasizes mindfulness, somatic awareness, and compassionate inquiry as key tools for healing and personal transformation.
Ron Kurtz, the founder of Hakomi therapy, draws upon years of experience to provide a clear and accessible introduction to this unique therapeutic approach. He begins by laying the groundwork, explaining the theoretical foundations and principles that underpin Hakomi. Central to the method is the idea that the body stores memories, emotions, and core beliefs, and these can be accessed and transformed through mindful exploration.
One of the book's strengths lies in its practicality. Kurtz guides readers through the various stages of a Hakomi session, offering detailed descriptions of techniques and interventions. He illustrates how therapists can create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their inner worlds, fostering healing and self-discovery.
The concept of mindfulness is central to Hakomi, and Kurtz provides a thorough exploration of its application in therapy. He highlights how therapists can use mindfulness to help clients become more aware of their bodily sensations, emotions, and thought patterns. Through this awareness, clients gain insight into their unconscious processes, leading to personal growth and healing.
Kurtz also emphasizes the importance of non-violence and loving presence in the therapeutic relationship. He encourages therapists to approach their clients with an attitude of curiosity, empathy, and respect, fostering a sense of safety and trust that allows for deep exploration and healing.
Throughout the book, Kurtz shares numerous case examples and transcripts from actual therapy sessions, bringing the Hakomi method to life. These real-world illustrations demonstrate the transformative power of Hakomi and how it can help individuals heal from trauma, overcome limiting beliefs, and connect with their authentic selves.
As a guide to Hakomi, this book is both enlightening and practical. It provides therapists with a comprehensive understanding of the method while offering tangible tools and techniques to incorporate into their practice. However, it's not limited to professionals; anyone interested in self-discovery and personal growth will find valuable insights within its pages.
In summary, "Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy" by Ron Kurtz is a masterful exploration of a therapeutic approach that seamlessly integrates mindfulness, somatic awareness, and compassionate inquiry. It is a must-read for therapists seeking to expand their skills and for individuals on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Kurtz's wisdom and compassion shine through every page, making this book an invaluable resource in the world of psychotherapy.
"Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy" by Ron Kurtz is a profound exploration of a therapeutic approach that delves deep into the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. This book offers an insightful and comprehensive guide to the Hakomi method, which emphasizes mindfulness, somatic awareness, and compassionate inquiry as key tools for healing and personal transformation.
Ron Kurtz, the founder of Hakomi therapy, draws upon years of experience to provide a clear and accessible introduction to this unique therapeutic approach. He begins by laying the groundwork, explaining the theoretical foundations and principles that underpin Hakomi. Central to the method is the idea that the body stores memories, emotions, and core beliefs, and these can be accessed and transformed through mindful exploration.
One of the book's strengths lies in its practicality. Kurtz guides readers through the various stages of a Hakomi session, offering detailed descriptions of techniques and interventions. He illustrates how therapists can create a safe and nurturing space for clients to explore their inner worlds, fostering healing and self-discovery.
The concept of mindfulness is central to Hakomi, and Kurtz provides a thorough exploration of its application in therapy. He highlights how therapists can use mindfulness to help clients become more aware of their bodily sensations, emotions, and thought patterns. Through this awareness, clients gain insight into their unconscious processes, leading to personal growth and healing.
Kurtz also emphasizes the importance of non-violence and loving presence in the therapeutic relationship. He encourages therapists to approach their clients with an attitude of curiosity, empathy, and respect, fostering a sense of safety and trust that allows for deep exploration and healing.
Throughout the book, Kurtz shares numerous case examples and transcripts from actual therapy sessions, bringing the Hakomi method to life. These real-world illustrations demonstrate the transformative power of Hakomi and how it can help individuals heal from trauma, overcome limiting beliefs, and connect with their authentic selves.
As a guide to Hakomi, this book is both enlightening and practical. It provides therapists with a comprehensive understanding of the method while offering tangible tools and techniques to incorporate into their practice. However, it's not limited to professionals; anyone interested in self-discovery and personal growth will find valuable insights within its pages.
In summary, "Hakomi Body-Centered Psychotherapy" by Ron Kurtz is a masterful exploration of a therapeutic approach that seamlessly integrates mindfulness, somatic awareness, and compassionate inquiry. It is a must-read for therapists seeking to expand their skills and for individuals on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Kurtz's wisdom and compassion shine through every page, making this book an invaluable resource in the world of psychotherapy.
May 3, 2025
While this book is primarily intended for practitioners of the Hakomi method, I found it incredibly helpful on my own journey of mind-body integration. Highly recommended for anybody interested in body-centered psychotherapy (which goes far beyond Hakomi - Lowen's "Bioenergetics," Ogden's "Sensorimotor Psychotherapy", etc.).
May 29, 2022
Rip off of traditional Buddhist teachings, rebranded as mindfulness. Many quacks that are unlicensed practice under the guise of Hakomi therapy. Very dangerous when dealing with trauma patients.
June 7, 2013
I love the Hakomi method, which I'm currently studying, and the book does a good job of synthesizing the model. I would have given it a 5, but for the poor editing. Regardless, I know I will be re-reading this book many times in the years to come!
June 18, 2009
Re-reading pieces of this--consistenly trying to integrate/experiment with these tools in my practice...it's neat stuff but can only absorb a little bit at a time.
November 27, 2015
Great book; inspiring source for gestalt therapists with a fresh prospective. Loved it!
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September 22, 2016Really powerful way of thinking and working with the body and the mind. Even if you're not a somatic therapist, there are some good things to think about here.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews