Define Spiritual Emergence & Emergency
Understand the fundamental concepts and terminology of spiritual awakening experiences and how to distinguish between spiritual emergence and emergency.
Applies to Level 1 Certification
This course is part of the Level 1 Spiritual Emergence Coach® Certification. You can take this course individually or as part of the complete certification bundle. Upon completion, this course will count toward your Level 1 certification requirements.
About this course
This presentation provides the essential definitions needed to understand and recognize phenomena associated with awakening, known as “spiritual emergence,” and the crises that may occur in awakening, known as “spiritual emergency”.
You'll explore key concepts, terminology, and receive a practical framework in the form of a chart. This mini-course Involves a 7-minute video presentation, a practical chart, a brief article, and resources for further exploration. This course can be your first step in the Level 1 Spiritual Emergence Coach® Certification and is free. We welcome you whether you're a mental health professional, spiritual counselor, or someone interested in understanding these experiences. You will learn that spiritual experiences can open the path to personal transformation and human flourishing.
Learning Objectives
Define spiritual emergence and distinguish it from spiritual emergency
Recognize the signs and symptoms of spiritual awakening experiences
Understand the historical and cultural context of spiritual emergence
Learn the foundational terminology used by spiritual emergence coaches
Syllabus
Introduction to Spiritual Emergence
Introductory video from Emma Bragdon, PhD
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.
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.