John Amodeo's Home Page

We are drawn by the irresistible pull of love and connection, yet we also long for inner peace and stillness. These apparent opposites seem irreconcilable—until we realize that our longing for intimate bonds and spiritual liberation emanates from the same sacred impulse. Pursuing a spiritual path while embracing our humanity moves us beyond our stuck places toward rich relationships and intimacy with all things.

In this innovative, practical book, John Amodeo shows how emotionally nourishing relationships and spiritual development are two sides of the same coin of awakening. He suggests that the Buddha’s teaching about the root of suffering is often misunderstood. It is not desire and attachment that cause suffering; desire is the fire that springs from the basic life force.

Drawing upon the science of attachment theory, Amodeo illuminates how suffering spreads when we’re disconnected from ourselves and others—and is fueled by clinging to an array of habits and beliefs that divert us from a deeper intimacy with life.

In a warm, conversational tone, Amodeo presents relationships as the ultimate spiritual practice. We move toward emotional and spiritual maturity as we mindfully uncover, welcome, and convey our deepest feelings and tender longings. Guiding us on this healing and transformative journey is this book’s purpose. By bringing loving-kindness to wha,

Weaving Western Psychology with Spiritual Wisdom

John Amodeo, PhD

Dancing with Fire won the 2014 Independent Publisher Book Silver Award in the sexuality/relationship category. It was also the winner of the Spirituality and Practice Award as one of the best spiritual books of 2013.

You're invited to explore this website to learn more about John's books, as well as access articles, interviews, and other information about his work, including articles on his online column with Psychology Today.

Themes in John's work:

* Relationships as a Spiritual Path

* Bringing a Gentle Presence to Ourselves and Others: A Foundation for Emotional and

Spiritual Intimacy

* Healing Shame and Recovering from Trauma--and Affirming Our Authentic Experience

* Living More in Our Body and Being in the Present Moment; Identifying and Transforming

Self-Critical Thoughts

* Honoring Feelings and Longings In Ways that Deepen Connection

John Amodeo, PhD, LMFT (#MFC 14453), is a psychotherapist, author, coach, and speaker. For over 45 years, he has been integrating psychological insight with spiritual wisdom. A licensed marriage and family therapist in California for over 45 years, he brings a deeply integrative approach to healing and relationships. His books explore how psychological awareness and spiritual wisdom can enrich our lives and connections.

The Power of Gentle Presence: Insights for Inner Peace and Deeper Relationships

Dancing with Fire: A Mindful Way to Loving Relationships

The Authentic Heart: An Eightfold Path to Midlife Love

Love & Betrayal: Broken Trust in Intimate Relationships

Being Intimate: A Guide to Successful Relationships