Melissa Moss is the Founder and Principle Psychologist at The Bodhi Tree Psychology- A Holistic Practice.

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Mel decided on the name for its reference to the nature of the humanistic approach and the origins of mindfulness. The humanistic ethos entrusts in our innate abilities to heal and be the best guide in that healing. However, when we are at our most vulnerable, it's really easy to lose sight of our strengths and our uniqueness, but the humanistic ethos never does, it's belief in our innate strength is embedded deeply in its roots, so you can rest assured that being vulnerable doesn't have to mean being directed or overpowered. The approach, much like what is said about The Bodhi Tree, offers a safe environment for contemplation, healing and growth. And it uses mindfulness-based approaches to do that, which whilst being drawn from Buddhism, are not affiliated to the religion or it's teachings. It's purely acknowledging, out of deep respect, the influence mindfulness has on the humanistic ethos. 

 

Humanistic psychology is a psychological perspective that emerged in the mid-20th century as a reaction to behaviorism and psychoanalysis, two dominant schools of thought at the time. Humanistic psychology places a strong emphasis on the unique qualities of human beings and their potential for personal growth, self-actualization, and self-improvement.

Key concepts and ideas associated with humanistic psychology include:

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1. Self-Actualization: This is a central concept in humanistic psychology, coined by Abraham Maslow. It refers to the innate tendency of humans to strive toward their fullest potential and become the best version of themselves.

2. Holism: Humanistic psychology takes a holistic approach, viewing individuals as complex beings who cannot be reduced to a sum of their parts. It emphasizes understanding the whole person, including their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and social context.

3. Subjective Experience: Humanistic psychologists believe that subjective experiences, such as emotions, personal beliefs, and perceptions, are of paramount importance in understanding human behavior. These subjective experiences are seen as unique to each individual.

4. Personal Responsibility: Humanistic psychology emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of individuals making choices that are in line with their values and goals.

5. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: Abraham Maslow proposed a hierarchy of human needs, starting with basic physiological needs like food and shelter and progressing to higher-level needs like self-esteem and self-actualization. This hierarchy suggests that individuals must satisfy lower-level needs before they can focus on higher-level needs.

6. Rogers' Person-Centered Therapy: Carl Rogers developed person-centered therapy, which is a widely practiced humanistic approach to counseling and psychotherapy. It involves creating a nonjudgmental and empathetic therapeutic environment in which clients can explore their feelings and thoughts to facilitate self-actualization.

7. Existentialism: Existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes individual freedom and the search for meaning in life, has influenced humanistic psychology. Existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Viktor Frankl explored themes of choice, responsibility, and the human quest for meaning.

8. Positive Psychology: While not originally a part of humanistic psychology, the positive psychology movement, which emerged in the late 20th century, shares some common themes with humanistic psychology. Positive psychology focuses on strengths, well-being, and the factors that contribute to a fulfilling life.

 

In summary, humanistic psychology has had a far-reaching impact on various fields, emphasizing the importance of the individual's subjective experience, personal growth, and self-actualization. Its influence can be seen in psychology, education, healthcare, management, and other areas where understanding and promoting human well-being and potential are paramount.

 

All of the evidence-based approaches used at The Bodhi Tree Psychology, are congruent with this ethos and we work with a range of presentations such as: Trauma, PTSD, Dissociation, Childhood sexual abuse, Social/ Emotional/Mental/ Spiritual and/or Physical abuse, Emotion-dysregulation such as Depression and/ or Anxiety,  Relationship issues (with self and/ or others), Loss, Grief, Bereavement and more... and offers sessions for people 18 years and over. 

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The Bodhi Tree Psychology respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Boon Wurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin and pays respect to their Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge and honour the spiritual, cultural and political connection the Wurundjeri, Bunurong, Dja Dja Wurrung, Taungurung and Wadawurrung peoples of the Eastern Kulin have to this unique place for more than 2000 generations. 

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If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis or emergency, Please follow this link to find the correct services: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-helplines