0690 - Turning Toward Ourselves: Inner Relationship Focusing as a Practice of Embodied Listening
Course Description
Hours: 12
In the helping professions, we are expected to listen deeply to others, yet we are rarely taught how to listen to our own inner experience with the same care and compassion. Our capacity to remain present, attuned and grounded with those we support depends on our own internal clarity and is intimately connected to the quality of our relationship with ourselves.
Inner Relationship Focusing offers a gentle, powerful way to cultivate this inner connection. Rather than analyzing or trying to change what is felt, the practice invites us to slow down, listen inwardly and meet our experiences with presence and respect. Over time, this way of relating helps us become the nurturing presence we may have long needed, creating an inner space where thoughts, feelings and sensations can be received with care.
This two-day professional development course is designed to help participants understand how a compassionate relationship with self-in-presence can become a foundation for well-being. Using experiential exercises, demonstrations and group discussion, participants will:
- Explore the core principles of Inner Relationship Focusing.
- Examine how patterns of inner criticism, pressure or avoidance can shift through compassionate awareness.
- Learn how to bring gentle, non-judgmental attention to inner felt experience and cultivate a sense of presence.
- Practice embodied listening as a way of relating to thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations.
- Develop skills for integrating focusing-oriented awareness into personal and professional life.
Please be advised that although this course is designed for mental health professionals, it may be challenging to navigate on a personal level. This training is not recommended for anyone who is currently experiencing their own trauma as some of the content may be activating.
Notes
Time Zone: All listed class times are held in ET (Ontario, Canada)
For more information contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:
Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-4967
Cancellations and Transfers
Be sure to carefully review our cancellation and transfer information before registering.
Website: wlu.ca/fswpd
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Counselling Techniques Certificate : Counselling Techniques
- Trauma Certificate : Trauma Certificate