Circling/Presencing

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This is a remarkable self-development modality. The original form was established quite early on in the history of A.R. (Authentic Relating) in the USA, and it is now present all over the world. We have been practicing for many years since a wonderful training in 2011. 

STRUCTURE:

A small group of people - usually 6 or so - sit in a Circle. (Where the traditional colloquial name of 'Circling' came from.) They engage in what Gestalt therapists - and others - call 'witnessing' and 'being present', as individual participants take turns to talk about whatever they would like to change, process, or move beyond - typically 'ways of being', 'personal limitations', or 'difficult life experiences'. Yet also potentially just anything someone wants to understand more fully about themselves. Witnesses may ask questions to learn more about the individual's experience or feelings, or can share empathic feedback, but offer no opinions or solutions. This is a process of inquiry NOT of solution-finding - which makes an incredible difference.

HOW IT WORKS:

Many professional counsellors say transformation occurs as a client makes meaning for themselves; that telling them how to 'fix' themselves, or what is wrong with them does not help at all. Transformation occurs within one's own internal processes, feelings and realizations - more than through intellectual understanding.

In Circling/Presencing, witnesses, questioners and reflectors assist the focus-person to go on a more potent journey of introspective processing. Not by 'trying' to make this happen, but simply by relating organically in the moment. (Which is how this also teaches participants to relate more deeply to others.)

While the effect of Circling/Presencing can be extremely therapeutic (even sometimes very helpful in dealing with old trauma residues), it is not therapy and is not approached as therapy. Anyone with severe psychological/emotional issues, or untreated trauma, needs to consult a medical professional first and foremost.

EFFECTIVE SELF-DISCOVERY

Circling/Presencing provides an environment in which to feel and reflect more effectively on our inner processes, which is not something everyone wants or is ready for. People don't need experience in Circling or A.R. to attend, but it is not suitable as someone's first-ever self-development workshop, as it can sometimes be very effective at dropping us deep into ourselves.

SELF-PACED & EXPLORATORY

There is no pressure to reveal or express, or even to be the focus person. Going at your own pace is crucial. So many of us were pressured, invalidated or unmet during crucial early-development. The practical elements are gently coached and explained as we go; it is a learning environment, and the facilitators also continue to benefit from the processes of this very human journey.