Seattle Hakomi Education Network

Hakomi Literature

Basic Hakomi text by Ron Kurtz: for professionals and lay readers.

Hakomi Therapy as applied to couples therapy by Rob Fisher

A text written for prospective clients of Hakomi therapy. Relates the unfolding of psychotherapy to the Tao Te Ching

What is Hakomi?

Hakomi is a method of assisted self-study, designed by Ron Kurtz (founder of the Hakomi Institute and the Hakomi Educational Network). Using mindfulness and an experimental attitude, the method offers real help to people who are interested in experiencing less suffering and more freedom and joy in their lives. Hakomi combines an attitude of gentle curiosity and a deep trust in the human ability to grow and change with an awareness of the connection between mind and body. In Hakomi, there is no struggle with WHAT IS. There is only appreciation, acknowledgment, comfort, and an opportunity to explore new options with kind and solid support.

How is Hakomi Practiced?

Hakomi is practiced either in a workshop setting, with a group of fellow learners, or one-on-one in a therapeutic setting. Each workshop includes several Hakomi teachers or therapists, as well as one or more advanced students, so that principles can be learned in a supportive environment. There is usually a wide range of experience among participants, with each participant free to learn at their own pace. In addition to weekend workshops, a more advanced one-year training program is available for those who wish to continue the learning process for personal or professional goals.

The therapeutic option is available from one of four certified Hakomi therapists in the greater Seattle area. They work on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis in one hour or one and a half hour sessions. Hakomi couple counseling is available through individual therapists or by a Hakomi couples counseling team.

Who is Hakomi for?

Hakomi is for anyone who desires less suffering and more freedom and joy in their life. It requires an ability to be mindful and to have a natural curiosity about their inner life. Recent research in neurobiology shows us that the old adage "It’s never too late to have a happy childhood," is in fact true. Through self-study and supportive guidance we can learn to spend less time in those states of mind that lead to sadness, despair, or hopelessness and more time in the states of mind associated with peacefulness, satisfaction and compassion. Over time, the structure of the brain can be changed. In other words, the results are physiological as well as emotional.

In addition, Hakomi is of particular value to those who work in the healing and teaching professions, as well as managers and parents – anyone whose work depends on the ability to form meaningful and effective relationships with others.