Week 1 Therapy Session Notes

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Summary Notes - The Power of Intention in Mental and Spiritual Growth

This workshop focuses on practical tools for transformation, with an emphasis on setting clear intentions to foster long-lasting change.

1. The Role of Intention in Transformation

  • Intentions (niyyah) are at the core of personal growth, healing, and spiritual development.

  • Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Actions are judged by intentions.” This hadith serves as a blueprint for shaping our lives.

  • Growth doesn’t start with big actions—it begins with a solid intention that guides behavior and mindsets.

2. The Science Behind Intention

  • The Reticular Activating System (RAS) in the brain filters information and focuses on what we consciously prioritize.

  • If an intention is too vague, the brain struggles to implement it.

  • Specific goals lead to automatic changes in behavior (e.g., “I want peace” vs. “I will respond to challenges with patience”).

3. Overcoming Negative Thought Patterns

  • Self-doubt, shame, and anxiety are natural but can be reshaped.

  • Musa (AS) doubted himself when given his mission, but Allah reassured him: “I am with you, hearing and seeing everything.”

  • Cognitive Reappraisal is the psychological process of reframing hardships to reduce stress and increase resilience.

4. Breaking Negative Cycles & Practical Implementation

  • The Cognitive Triad: Thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected.

  • Negativity Bias: The brain naturally focuses on negative experiences, requiring conscious effort to shift toward gratitude and positive action.

  • Opposite Action: When feeling isolated or overwhelmed, take the opposite action (e.g., instead of withdrawing, reach out to someone).

5. Implementation Statements for Change

  • “If I feel anxious, I will pause and check in with myself.”

  • “If I feel like withdrawing, I will reach out to a friend.”

  • “If I freeze, I will change my environment (e.g., wash my hands with cold water).”

  • Even small steps matter—on difficult days, doing the bare minimum is still progress.

6. Reflection & Personal Growth

  • Participants were encouraged to reflect on their recurring negative thoughts and create personalized action plans.

  • Identifying emotional struggles and setting clear, actionable goals helps break self-sabotaging cycles.

  • Faith & intention play a key role—when struggling, turn to Allah and trust the process.