Margot Esther Borden

Track: Transpersonal Psychology, Psychotherapy and Clinical Studies

Psychology in the Light of the East

Spirituality is nothing but practical psychology. Sri Aurobindo

How do we realize our full potential? Is the answer found in the scientific approach and rigor of Western psychology or in the esoteric wisdom of the East? Or, could it be a combination of the two?

Since beginning her career as a psychotherapist in 1986, Margot has felt that our perception, understanding and corresponding ways of working with clients were too limited. In some cases, they did not include the human element and in others our spiritual potential. Margot’s search for truth led her to seek a truly holistic model of psychology which addresses our entire human experience and potential. Her quest led to extensive research and exploration of Western and Eastern approaches to psychology and spiritual disciplines. Finally in India, she discovered the work of Sri Aurobindo, an eminent Indian mystic. His description of human experience, consciousness and potential not only fit her experiences and intuitions, but also fulfilled her soul's longing for growing room.  Aurobindo’s work became the foundation for her personal and professional development, leading to a wonderful, meaningful and limitless journey. Expanding our worldview and approach to psychology creates space for realizing our greater potential. We can move toward wholeness, wholesomeness and a more congruent way of being.

Drawing on her research, personal experience and 31 years of clinical practice, this talk will convey a vision of human potential and psychology that transcends the borders of East and West and opens the scope for a multi-dimensional, broad and inclusive theory and practice for a soul-centered approach to psychology.

Margot Esther Borden, M.A. has been working internationally as a psychotherapist since 1986. She completed her M.A. in Humanistic Psychology at University of Durham, UK and has trained in therapeutic breathwork, embodied mindfulness, past life regression, and many other psycho-spiritual therapy techniques.

Margot’s passion is the exploration of the underlying truths of human consciousness and potential.  Her professional and personal research and experience has its foundations in Eastern and Western psychology and spirituality.  Her work is substantiated by a long-term, grounded commitment to her own integral development.  She is gifted with profound insight and devotion to humanity.  Her quest has led to extensive travel, study and work in Europe, India and the USA.

She applies her unique vision and skill set in her private psychotherapy practice, teaching, seminar facilitation, coaching, public speaking and consulting. Her presence spans Europe, India, and the USA.  She is co-author and co-editor of Spirituality and Business: Exploring Possibilities for a New Management Paradigm (Springer, 2010) and author of Psychology in the Light of the East (Rowman & Littlefield, 2017).