Psychiatrists in Massachusetts
Joanna Quincy Duda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, CNS
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
Not accepting new clients
Rather than focusing on diagnosis, my practice has centered on the individual, with the strength of the relationship being central. The uniqueness of every individual as special and worthy has motivated my care and compassion in the implementation of the treatment most helpful for that individual. I have valued the spirit and soul of each individual as I skillfully determined the medicine and lifestyle needed for change. My early years as a psychotherapist were influenced by Shamanic practices, as well as a commitment to meditation and mindfulness; these have enabled me to be the channel for the change needed by my clients,
Rather than focusing on diagnosis, my practice has centered on the individual, with the strength of the relationship being central. The uniqueness of every individual as special and worthy has motivated my care and compassion in the implementation of the treatment most helpful for that individual. I have valued the spirit and soul of each individual as I skillfully determined the medicine and lifestyle needed for change. My early years as a psychotherapist were influenced by Shamanic practices, as well as a commitment to meditation and mindfulness; these have enabled me to be the channel for the change needed by my clients,
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Spirituality Psychiatrists
What should I expect from therapy that incorporates a focus on spirituality?
Spirituality can mean different things to different individuals, depending on their experiences, beliefs, and life histories. Some individuals focus on strengthening their belief system, while others experience spirituality in secular ways, such as through meditation, yoga, or by spending time in nature. Clients can expect a therapist to help guide and grow their spirituality through any of these techniques, encouraging the individual to cope with the challenges they face and develop strategies to build resilience and purpose to improve their outlook in life.
What are the most common treatments that include spirituality?
There are several treatments that incorporate spirituality. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) helps a person examine and reframe their negative thoughts and behaviors. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) focuses on emotional acceptance and psychological flexibility. Existential therapy is most often used to address anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, apathy, despair, questions of identity, and feelings of purposelessness and existential dread. Transpersonal therapy focuses on a client’s spirituality and meaning in life and may incorporate techniques including meditation, visualization, hypnotherapy, dream analysis, and or breathwork.
Can therapy incorporating spirituality help atheistic or agnostic individuals?
Yes. For non-believers, spirituality can offer benefits including a greater sense of connection to others and to the natural world. An interest in spirituality may also spur individuals to pursue mindfulness practices, or to contemplate their purpose in life and how to achieve it.
How effective is spirituality as a therapeutic remedy?
Research suggests spirituality is generally beneficial for individuals. It is correlated with better health habits, such as less substance use, and an improved capacity to cope with stress and other mental health challenges. Increased spirituality can lead individuals to become more empathic and less materialistic, as well.