Is Pathways for You?

Pathways to Happiness is geared toward people who would like to access more joy, passion, purpose, gratitude and other goodness in their lives ... in other words, it's geared toward most of us humans! Few of us live a life that is totally in tune with our inner wisdom, or what we imagine our life's purpose to be.

Pathways to Happiness offers experienced coaches, a supportive process and an on-going community to help you align your life with your own signature strengths, your own life purpose. When your gifts and your unique strengths are used in the service of something larger than yourself, you will naturally feel a greater life satisfaction.

Previous course participants included policy analysts, social workers, teachers, magazine editors, writers, consultants, nonprofit executives, retired people and others. What they had in common was a sense that their life could somehow be better, more meaningful, less frustrating. They didn't necessarily have a "problem" they wanted to solve, but they did want to experience a certain "lightness of being" in their everyday life. The following are some of the things they have said to us:

Testimonials

Happiness work became a daily and weekly practice, as important to me as my Tuesday and Thursday weight training classes. I put in three to four hours a week on the course, which seemed like a big load when I was very busy at the office, but I never regretted it. What I learned over five months continues to pay emotional dividends. I feel like Nancy and Robin introduced me to concepts and tools for monitoring and improving my happiness that I can use for the rest of my life.
Frank, magazine editor

I am more aware of little momentary pleasures and blessings, and better at keeping myself from going into self-critical tailspins. What I enjoyed most about Pathways was the experience of being in such a supportive mini-community (for which Robin and Nancy so ably set the tone). I especially admire and appreciated their ability to respond so lovingly and insightfully to people of such diverse needs and temperaments.
Perry, policy analyst

Like most of us, I had some hesitation at first about the telephone format. But it was amazing how intimate you could become over that kind of setting. And I quickly realized that I wouldn't have had time to practice the assignments if I had to put in transportation time in addition to all the class time.
Lindsay, urban planner

I decided to take the course because some parts of my life were not working. I was an optimistic person, but not a happy person. For me, the practices of gratitude and forgiveness were really important: I ended up calling my only sister, who lives in Florida, and thanked her for all she had done for me. I kept calling her once a day for three days. This opened up a relationship we never had, and we talk every week now. I don't know how to define happiness, but the other day I saw a woman I hadn't seen in a while and she said, "You look different," I knew exactly what she meant: I am happy now, and I look happy!
Maxine, independent business woman

Pathways Is Not Psychotherapy

Although the class is therapeutic, it is not psychotherapy. And while Pathways is not problem-focused, the skills and practices we teach can help reduce anxiety, disappointments, frustration, and mild depression. Pathways has been effective for some as an adjunct to psychotherapy.

If you are currently in psychotherapy or taking medications, we ask that you tell your therapist you are planning to enroll in the course. As part of the application process, the Pathways to Happiness coaches will also ask permission to talk with your therapist so that we can be confident that the course will meet your needs.

Note: Pathways to Happiness is not a substitute for medication, and is not appropriate if you are in crisis. If you are suffering from clinical depression, we urge you to seek medical help for your symptoms. If you have suicidal thoughts or plans, please seek medical help immediately. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK or 1-800-273-8255.

If you have questions about whether the program would be appropriate for you, please contact us or call 301-587-5735.

To participate in a free Pathways to Happiness phone class click here.

The next Pathways to Happiness seminar begins May 7, 2008. Prepare to embark on a wondrous journey toward happiness! See our Registration page for more information, call (301) 587-5735 or email.