I have been a member of the Australian Psychological Society for 30 years and am a Fellow of the Counselling College of the APS.

The ability to be present is often challenged by maladaptive coping modes, which can stand in the way of our ability to adapt to a situational crisis.

Mantra-based meditation is a method for therapeutic self-induced trance work or involuntary absorption. It works by breaking the triggered link between a trauma-based attachment and a maladaptive coping mode. This approach helps us stay present in the moment, be self-aware and avoid being consumed by overthinking.

Mindfulness helps us avoid being overwhelmed by the question, "What am I supposed to do now?" and live in the moment in a responsive way.

My assumptions are similar to those of Professor Patricia Crittenden, an attachment theorist and practitioner, who believes there is no such thing as a secure relationship; rather, there are negotiated connections throughout our lifespan in the here and now.