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Ernest Isaacs, MA Sex: Male; MFT # MFC15918 (Since 1981) 3468 Mt. Diablo Blvd. # B201, Lafayette 94549 2127 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley 94705 (510) 526-0711 ernesti@pacbell.net Fee scale: $55 - $100 www.amindfultherapist.com DESCRIPTION OF CLINICAL PRACTICE As we grow up, we all create a personality structure for ourselves - ways we think we have to be in the world to survive. I see the work of therapy as inquiring into the nature of these patterns and exploring how they constrict our lives. As we become aware of these outmoded models of self, they naturally fall away and we can live more and more with presence and authenticity. I use the practice of being present to ourselves, techniques from Gestalt therapy and bodywork, EMDR, and whatever else helps us wake up. Since letting go of old forms can be fearful, I provide a supportive and non-critical environment for this growth. I work a lot with self judgment, and I have often lead a day-long workshop, "Taming the Inner Critic", at Spirit Rock. In my work with couples, I help them see the structure of relationship they have created between each other and take ownership of their part in the dance, again with the understanding that awareness brings about change. In this way, both of the partners can use the relationship as a part of their spiritual path. VIPASSANA/MEDITATION BACKGROUND Back in the 60s, I read Alan Watts and back in the 70s, I read Ram Dass. I began my vipassana practice in 1977 with Dhiravamsa, and have been deeply involved with it ever since. I sit every day, do one day retreats at Spirit Rock, and I have sat a long retreat each year since 1981, including a six week course at Barre. I am in a monthly group at Spirit Rock for senior students. I have been the teacher for a weekly vipassana meditation group in Walnut Creek for the past twenty one years, and I am a graduate of the Community Dharma Leaders training program at Spirit Rock Since 1990, I have studied the Diamond Approach (Ridhwan School) with Hameed Ali (A.H. Almaas), exploring his blend of depth psychology and spiritual practice. I have been in a Teacher Training program in the school for many years. RELEVANT CLINICAL TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE I graduated from JFK University in 1978, was licensed in 1981, and have been in private practice since then. I am a graduate of the Gestalt Institute of SF, and I have studied many modes of therapy, from self psychology to bodywork, with many different teachers. I was certified as a Level II EMDR practitioner in 1995, have trained in Emotional Freedom Technique, and I have studied Non-Violent Communication practices with Marshall Rosenberg. |