6 Experts Define Spiritual Emergency
Spiritual Emergency is a vital process of transformation that can bring deep peace, profound self-acceptance and joy. However, care must be taken when navigating it.
About this course
This course defines and normalizes Spiritual Emergence and Emergency. Six dynamic, articulate experts describe what Spiritual Emergency can feel like – physically, emotionally and spiritually – and what adequate community support provides for those in crisis. If you are wondering if you are in a Spiritual Emergency or were at some point, or you are wondering how to introduce the concepts of Spiritual Emergency and Spiritual Emergence to others, this course can help. Takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. 1.5 Continuing Education Credits to those who register for it.
Learning Objectives
Describe what Spiritual Emergency is
Describe the biological and shamanic perspectives on Spiritual Emergency
Understand the history of this area of psychology, typically not covered in conventional programs focused on mental health
Syllabus
Introduction
A quick definition of terms, including the differences between Spiritual Emergence and Emergency.
2 Presentations
- Two TED Talks exploring the brain, body, and ancient Indigenous understandings of intense spiritual awakening.
2 Scholarly Talks
- Emma Bragdon, PhD, explores the history of spiritual emergency, followed by Stan Grof, MD, on its possible link to today’s global crises
Extra Resources and a Quiz
- Two scholarly articles explore Spiritual Emergency in psychology and psychiatry, followed by practical resources for support skills and an optional self-reflection quiz.
Your Instructor
Emma Bragdon, PhD
Dr. Emma Bragdon is a pioneer in body–mind–spirit wellness with 50 years of experience in integrative approaches to mental health, healing, and human development. She has written seven books, co-produced two documentary films, and has taught experiential learning for adults since 1985. Emma volunteered with the Spiritual Emergence Network (SEN) for seven years, editing their journal and coordinating conferences at Esalen Institute with founders Stanislav and Christina Grof. Her PhD dissertation, "How to Support Someone in Spiritual Emergency," launched a lifelong specialization in this field. From 2001–2012, she conducted field research at Spiritist Community Centers and Psychiatric Hospitals in Brazil, studying their 120-year-old model of integrative care. Since 2012, she has served as "ambassador" to non-Brazilians for the Spiritist Psychiatric Hospital in Goiânia, Brazil, facilitating seminars for health professionals worldwide.
Continuing Education Credits
Optional CE credits for licensed professionals
CE Provider
CE credits are provided by Westbrook University, an APA-approved continuing education provider for healthcare professionals.
CE credits are optional and available as an add-on for licensed professionals who need documented hours for license renewal. You can earn full Level 2 certification without purchasing CE credits.
Level 1 Certification Courses
Explore all courses in the Level 1 certification pathway. Complete all required courses to earn your Spiritual Emergence Coach certification.
Define Spiritual Emergence & Emergency
Understand the fundamental concepts and terminology of spiritual awakening experiences and how to distinguish between spiritual emergence and emergency.
Stories of Awakening: Spiritual Alchemy
Learn from real-world examples and case studies of spiritual awakening experiences to recognize patterns and understand diverse manifestations of spiritual emergence.
How to Effectively Support Someone in a Spiritual Emergency
Master the essential skills and strategies for supporting individuals through intense spiritual experiences with live webinars, peer learning, and expert guidance.
Practicum: Learn Skills for Effective Management of a Spiritual Crisis
Our LIVE on-location 2-day intensive workshop provides hands-on experience with supervised practice, role-playing, and real-world scenario training.