A quick Google search reveals that aura can be defined as the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place (Oxford Languages).

In my work, I am particularly interested in the therapeutic benefits of relational connection and what it is about a person, be they professional or lay, that makes them therapeutic to others.

In a sense, I write about the aura of a therapeutic person, without using the term that is typically steeped in mysticism.

So, if we think about what is the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a [therapeutic] person, I think that the answer lies in the letters that make the word, particularly as is reflected in my work.

Firstly, the ‘A’ refers to accessible. The therapeutic person is there for others, such that they feel supported.

The ‘U’ refers to understanding. The therapeutic person understands the experience of others, such that they feel acknowledged.

The ‘R’ refers to responsive. The therapeutic person responds to the experience of others, such that they feel worthy.

The second ‘A’ refers to attuned. The therapeutic person is emotionally-connected and empathic towards others, such that they feel togetherness.

AURA: Accessible, Understanding, Responsive, Attuned.

There is one more quality that I consider is vital here: consistency. It makes a difference if a person is consistently accessible, understanding, responsive, and attuned, or not. Consistency supports an experience of the therapeutic person being always accessible, understanding, responsive, and attuned, such that their therapeutic qualities can can be depended upon.

The CARE Curriculum supports people to be more aware of their aura (as defined above) and a methodology for projecting a therapeutic aura.