A Word to Therapists and Those in the Fields of Psychology and Social Work

Spacious Mind Learning and Retreat Center offers students of all backgrounds a unique opportunity to study and investigate for themselves the depth psychology of mind and being offered within the context of Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism. Each class is dedicated to on-the-spot investigation of the manner in which our thoughts, ideas, notions and memories contribute to a moment-to-moment constellation of activity we call the self. Through small-group interaction, we investigate the components of this constellation and its tendency to lock us into a limited form of being within a limited perceptual world. Especially helpful for psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers and counselors is the opportunity to explore beyond current models and theories of psychology and to flesh out a cogent, dynamic psychology that invites an integrated, joyful, compassionate life lived fully in each moment.

Spacious Mind classes and retreats are designed as interactive investigations in which the nature of mind, thought, being and world are brought to the fore and examined not within a theoretical structure but within the context of our daily lives and experience. It is by examining our daily experience, with respect, attention and clarity, that we learn to recognize and embrace a depth of being we may have never accessed before. Although each class and retreat is a place for careful, gentle and joyous personal investigation of one's own heart and mind, those in the field of psychology can immediately see applications to their fieldwork and to the particular individuals (group) they are assisting. Because Spacious Mind is dedicated to one-on-one and small group interaction, there exists the opportunity for each participant to come away from a class personally refreshed and professionally equipped to help others in deep and profound ways.

Our classes and retreats are open to people of all faith backgrounds. Spacious Mind is dedicated to teaching that is concerned with the depth of being and has no religious rites, rituals, nor religious conformity within its structure or classes whatsoever. Each and every participant is encouraged to apply what they learn in a manner that will assist their own personal growth and the growth of wise and compassionate relationships in our world.