From Therapy to Theology: A Psychospiritual Journey Into the Essence of Eden

In a previous article, "Talking About Religion and Spirituality in Therapy," I explored the topic of integrating religion and spirituality with therapy—a topic close to my heart as a clinical counselor who is also certified in catholic theology. Over time, that reflection opened a deeper question: What about exploring the inverse? Rather than focusing on how religion and spirituality can enhance or hinder therapy, how might therapy enhance or hinder religious and spiritual growth? What if the soul’s healing is a unified process – where a spiritual state of grace and psychological restoration walk hand in hand?

Those ideas were the roots of a recently released first volume of a book series with a long title, “The Essence of Eden: A Psychospiritual Exploration of Grace and Virtue. Vol I Pride and Humility”. Vol. II is a work in progress on Honesty and Deceit, with more volumes to follow. Each volume is to be a different set of vices and virtues in developmental order, meaning it is necessary to have a foundation of humility before one can truly be honest, and honesty is needed to progress further.

The book opens with a prompt to "Imagine you are standing in a vast, ancient forest, and you feel a gentle, soothing breeze carrying the essence of Eden..." Although not included in the book, the opening prompt could continue as a meditation in a workshop or retreat, using the script below with or without the video.

The book continues with an introduction to Catholic teachings on grace and an explanation of moral theology and the virtues. Following an understanding of these concepts is a discussion about how grace and virtue interact.

Once this groundwork is laid, the remainder of the book focuses on strategies for overcoming pride and cultivating humility. Some psychosocial causes that can lead to excessive or insufficient pride are explored, as well as obstacles to cultivating true humility. Each chapter includes scripture readings, church teachings, reflection/discussion questions, and prayer. The book is not merely an invitation to understand spiritual concepts—it’s a call to live them. Through active reflection and application, readers are guided toward genuine transformation and growth in virtue.

The video that follows is a meditation script. It may be viewed with or without the written script that follows to accommodate your meditation style.

"Imagine you are standing in a vast, ancient forest, and you feel a gentle, soothing breeze carrying the essence of Eden..."

This essence embodies the Grace of God and evokes memories of the Garden of Eden—the biblical paradise where Adam and Eve lived before the Fall. In this idyllic state, humanity existed in innocence and purity, in perfect harmony with God.

Let your heart absorb this sacred longing.

The essence of Eden stirs within you a profound desire to return to this original state of perfection and communion with God—free from sin and suffering—reigniting hope for redemption and restoration of the grace that was lost.

As you walk quietly beneath towering trees, small wooden signs begin to appear at your feet. They are simple, humble markers, etched with scripture:

“Return to Me, for I have redeemed you.” — Isaiah 44:22

Their presence speaks softly, guiding you forward. The forest starts to thin, and your footsteps begin to echo. Each step is filled with awareness. You feel your soul awakening.

The trees give way to an open plain, wide, golden, and warm. Light spills across the field like grace poured from heaven. In the distance, you see a small water fountain. You walk to it slowly. The water tastes cool and alive, quenching your thirst and echoing Christ’s words:

“Whoever drinks the water I give will never thirst.” John 4:14

Sip deeply in prayer. Ask for renewal.

Along the path are benches carved from wood, offering rest. Feel the weight you’ve been carrying. Sit for a moment.

“Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

It’s the gentle call of Jesus to lay down our burdens and receive His peace.

“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalm 55:22

Let that promise settle deep within you. You exhale slowly, feeling your burdens lifted—not into emptiness, but into the steady hands of God, who does not falter and will not forsake you.

You now approach an ornate gate, wrapped in living vines and glowing softly. A sign reads:

“Nothing impure will enter it.” — Revelation 21:27

At the gate, a confessor gently stands beside you. He invites you to leave unforgiveness, shame, bitterness, and hidden sin behind.

You enter the sacrament in your heart. Whisper to the Lord what needs to be let go. Trust in His mercy.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just...” — 1 John 1:9

With absolution in your soul, the gate opens.

The garden welcomes you. The air shimmers with grace. You see animals lying peacefully together. The waters sparkle with divine light. Rain falls gently like a baptism. Fruit trees are ripe, overflowing.

You see Adam and Eve nearby, not shamed, but radiant. Not hidden, but whole. Their eyes meet yours with understanding—an ancient memory shared across generations.

God is here and walks among you. His presence fills everything.

You do not speak; you simply rest in communion. Your heart is known. You are loved.

“I will walk among you and be your God, and you shall be My people.” — Leviticus 26:12

You speak with Him, not with words, but with love. There is no fear, just communion.

The serpent is present, but powerless. You notice its isolation, its silence. You are no longer deceived.

You kneel and touch the earth. You thank God for grace and for the healing journey. You are restored.

The sun begins to descend. A soft call echoes, reminding you that this experience was a glimpse, a foretaste. You must return to life, carrying the grace you received.

You walk back to the gate. This time, you pass through with peace and a new heart.

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” — Psalm 51:10

You re-enter the forest. The breeze is still gentle. The signs remain. You are no longer lost.

You’ve glimpsed Eden. You’ve tasted redemption. You now bring its essence into the world through virtue, through love, and through your mission.

“You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may announce the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” — 1 Peter 2:9

Whether you’re a therapist, ministry leader, or someone longing for spiritual renewal, The Essence of Eden offers a path—not just to understanding, but to transformation. If this meditation moved you, I invite you to explore the full journey in “The Essence of Eden: A Psychospiritual Exploration of Eden. Vol I Pride and Humility. It’s available now, and I pray it becomes a companion on your own walk toward grace.