It is possible to undergo a profound crisis involving non-ordinary experiences, and to perceive it as pathological or psychiatric when in fact it may be more accurately and beneficially described as a Spiritual Emergency.

Are you in a process that involves transpersonal experiences, extreme or altered states of consciousness? Are you having Peak Experiences and/or Unitive Consciousness –  or feeling overwhelmed by fear? Do you feel as if you’re having a ‘breakdown’ or going mad?  Are you experiencing Kundalini Awakening, a shamanic initiation, Dark Night of the Soul, or experiences of death and rebirth?  

The Spiritual Emergence Network (SEN) recognises these experiences as deeply meaningful and potentially transformative. SEN focuses on the spiritual because it is usually missing from other frameworks of understanding non-ordinary experiences. However, we strongly recommend a holistic approach, where all aspects are addressed – physical, mental, emotional, social…. and spiritual.

Each person’s unusual experience has its own wisdom and reason for being, even when unpredictable and difficult. We have found that the outcome is greater well-being and open-heartedness, and being more connected with all of life.