Photo of Dr Anne Li, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Anne Li
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC3V  (Online Only)
Dr Anne Li is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist offering private therapy and leadership/performance coaching to adults. She is British Chinese, with past professional experiences in investment banking and the creative industries and is a practising Buddhist. She provides a holistic and pragmatic approach to psychological health and well-being and draws from psychodynamic, CBT, somatic, compassion-focused, mindfulness, and existential approaches. She is interested in helping people transcend limiting beliefs, harmful family scripts, unconscious mechanisms, and patterned behaviours, be better self-aware, and more self-caring.
Dr Anne Li is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist offering private therapy and leadership/performance coaching to adults. She is British Chinese, with past professional experiences in investment banking and the creative industries and is a practising Buddhist. She provides a holistic and pragmatic approach to psychological health and well-being and draws from psychodynamic, CBT, somatic, compassion-focused, mindfulness, and existential approaches. She is interested in helping people transcend limiting beliefs, harmful family scripts, unconscious mechanisms, and patterned behaviours, be better self-aware, and more self-caring.
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Hellena Bitsios
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
My work is underpinned by Buddhist principles and practice and is strongly influenced by Jungian and Humanistic psychology as well as Family Constellation principles and Shamanic Practice.
I was raised in Greece by a Greek father and English mother and speak both languages. I have a wealth of life experience and have travelled down many paths in my life. By this I mean that many of the issues people bring to the space are like the issues I have battled with. Alongside my Private Practice, I have been working in complex needs arena.
My work is underpinned by Buddhist principles and practice and is strongly influenced by Jungian and Humanistic psychology as well as Family Constellation principles and Shamanic Practice.
I was raised in Greece by a Greek father and English mother and speak both languages. I have a wealth of life experience and have travelled down many paths in my life. By this I mean that many of the issues people bring to the space are like the issues I have battled with. Alongside my Private Practice, I have been working in complex needs arena.
0117 463 7961 View 0117 463 7961
Photo of Daniel Sutton-Johanson, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Daniel Sutton-Johanson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth PO4  (Online Only)
My practice as a psychotherapist is informed by a blend of philosophical perspectives from both Person-Centred and Buddhist psychology.
Reasons to seek out therapy are, much like ourselves, varied, nuanced and complex. A deeply empathic, attentive presence, warmth and trust for how you process things and what you decide to bring to our sessions, are at the heart of my practice. As a therapist, I provide a therapeutic relationship which, over time, creates a space in which deep healing can occur. I hope to help you see yourself and make meaning of your experience(s) in ways which were not available before. My work is therefore centred around attending to the whole person, with equal respect and worth for both content and process, both feeling and thinking.
My practice as a psychotherapist is informed by a blend of philosophical perspectives from both Person-Centred and Buddhist psychology.
Reasons to seek out therapy are, much like ourselves, varied, nuanced and complex. A deeply empathic, attentive presence, warmth and trust for how you process things and what you decide to bring to our sessions, are at the heart of my practice. As a therapist, I provide a therapeutic relationship which, over time, creates a space in which deep healing can occur. I hope to help you see yourself and make meaning of your experience(s) in ways which were not available before. My work is therefore centred around attending to the whole person, with equal respect and worth for both content and process, both feeling and thinking.
023 9387 8735 View 023 9387 8735
Photo of Roger Jayamanne, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Roger Jayamanne
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Diverse life experiences from a background in design, teaching and education and a number of years as a Buddhist monk training in meditation/mindfulness and currently studying an Msc in Neuroscience, inform my practice.
Suffering with our mental health is very hard to find relief from, finding ourselves going around in circles and losing touch with our previous lifestyle, wondering 'am I ever going to find a way out?' I offer you face-to-face sessions in a nurturing, non-judgemental environment . I work as an Integrative therapist so that your sessions are tailored to your needs. I predominantly draw upon Person Centred Therapy, ACT, CBT and Transactional Analysis to address issues such as: anxiety; trauma; depression/lack of motivation; disturbed sleep; performance/productivity, relationships/social interaction; existential angst/lack of meaning
Diverse life experiences from a background in design, teaching and education and a number of years as a Buddhist monk training in meditation/mindfulness and currently studying an Msc in Neuroscience, inform my practice.
Suffering with our mental health is very hard to find relief from, finding ourselves going around in circles and losing touch with our previous lifestyle, wondering 'am I ever going to find a way out?' I offer you face-to-face sessions in a nurturing, non-judgemental environment . I work as an Integrative therapist so that your sessions are tailored to your needs. I predominantly draw upon Person Centred Therapy, ACT, CBT and Transactional Analysis to address issues such as: anxiety; trauma; depression/lack of motivation; disturbed sleep; performance/productivity, relationships/social interaction; existential angst/lack of meaning
0161 524 4147 View 0161 524 4147
Photo of Andrew Meader, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrew Meader
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I’m a person-centred counsellor; integrating Jungian and Buddhist understanding into my approach.
We all experience difficulties at one time or another. It could be that our relationships aren’t all we'd like them to be. Or perhaps we feel anxious, depressed, lonely, or we’re grieving a loss. Perhaps we behave in ways that we'd rather not, or that we don't understand. Or maybe life has lost its meaning, we've lost our sense of direction, feel stuck, or just don't know who we are any more. Counselling offers a safe, confidential space in which to explore such issues in relationship with someone who is skilled, non-judgemental, and really there for you. A space in which to come to terms with things, and allow them to change.
I’m a person-centred counsellor; integrating Jungian and Buddhist understanding into my approach.
We all experience difficulties at one time or another. It could be that our relationships aren’t all we'd like them to be. Or perhaps we feel anxious, depressed, lonely, or we’re grieving a loss. Perhaps we behave in ways that we'd rather not, or that we don't understand. Or maybe life has lost its meaning, we've lost our sense of direction, feel stuck, or just don't know who we are any more. Counselling offers a safe, confidential space in which to explore such issues in relationship with someone who is skilled, non-judgemental, and really there for you. A space in which to come to terms with things, and allow them to change.
01275 402957 View 01275 402957
Photo of Dr Sophie Ann Bafunno-Clifton, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sophie Ann Bafunno-Clifton
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I also believe joy, fun and laughter to be fantastic remedies for distress, encouraging those I work with to inject this back into their lives! As a practising Buddhist, I also enjoys drawing on relaxation, meditation, imagery and mindfulness techniques in therapy, where appropriate.
I have worked alongside people of all ages, from a variety of backgrounds, experiencing a broad range of mental health difficulties. These include depression, anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, workplace stress, attachment and relationship difficulties. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing on multiple psychological theories (e.g. CBT, ACT, CFT, CAT, psycho-dynamic approaches) to build an individualised and holistic approach, empowering each individual to embark on recovery and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I also believe joy, fun and laughter to be fantastic remedies for distress, encouraging those I work with to inject this back into their lives! As a practising Buddhist, I also enjoys drawing on relaxation, meditation, imagery and mindfulness techniques in therapy, where appropriate.
I have worked alongside people of all ages, from a variety of backgrounds, experiencing a broad range of mental health difficulties. These include depression, anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, workplace stress, attachment and relationship difficulties. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing on multiple psychological theories (e.g. CBT, ACT, CFT, CAT, psycho-dynamic approaches) to build an individualised and holistic approach, empowering each individual to embark on recovery and achieve their therapeutic goals.
01273 092145 View 01273 092145
Photo of Joel Robinson - Joel Robinson Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Joel Robinson Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
As a practising Buddhist and mindfulness teacher, I look at the soul's journey through a lens of working with our mind and hearts in order to free up energy to achieve what we want in life.
I offer counselling to people who are in some sort of transition in their lives. Often people come to me when they're feeling stuck, isolated or low. I often work with people in their twenties, thirties and forties who are facing some sort of mid-life transition. You might be weighing up what is important to you, and how to take the next steps in your life. I work with people who are often from marginalised groups, for example, LGBTQ+ people and/or people from Black and ethnic minorities. You might want to find out a way to live your life that feels authentic and unblock energy to achieve your goals.
As a practising Buddhist and mindfulness teacher, I look at the soul's journey through a lens of working with our mind and hearts in order to free up energy to achieve what we want in life.
I offer counselling to people who are in some sort of transition in their lives. Often people come to me when they're feeling stuck, isolated or low. I often work with people in their twenties, thirties and forties who are facing some sort of mid-life transition. You might be weighing up what is important to you, and how to take the next steps in your life. I work with people who are often from marginalised groups, for example, LGBTQ+ people and/or people from Black and ethnic minorities. You might want to find out a way to live your life that feels authentic and unblock energy to achieve your goals.
020 4538 1685 View 020 4538 1685
Photo of Sophie Barnes, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Sophie Barnes
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London N4  (Online Only)
Working with couples and individuals, I am a trauma-informed, BACP accredited psychodynamic psychotherapist. Drawing from nearly a decade’s clinical experience, my approach weaves together psychoanalytic, attachment, Jungian, Buddhist mindfulness and somatic approaches. Sessions offer a unique opportunity for deep self-exploration and support around any areas of concern to you; a place in which to be truly seen, heard and responded to. Together, we attend to the underlying roots of present difficulties at a level of depth, towards fuller self-understanding and the discovery of new, more fulfilling ways of living, relating and being.
Working with couples and individuals, I am a trauma-informed, BACP accredited psychodynamic psychotherapist. Drawing from nearly a decade’s clinical experience, my approach weaves together psychoanalytic, attachment, Jungian, Buddhist mindfulness and somatic approaches. Sessions offer a unique opportunity for deep self-exploration and support around any areas of concern to you; a place in which to be truly seen, heard and responded to. Together, we attend to the underlying roots of present difficulties at a level of depth, towards fuller self-understanding and the discovery of new, more fulfilling ways of living, relating and being.
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Photo of Richard Barker, MBACP, Counsellor
Richard Barker
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I use contemporary counselling theory, but I’m also interested in less traditional viewpoints: I spent 7 years as a Buddhist monk, and this naturally has a bearing on my work.
I offer counselling and therapeutic coaching. Clients will come to me with a range of problems and often feel some confusion and simply need to talk. In our work we will clarify the problem and see what is most challenging for you at the present time. We will discover where this confusion arises in the body and mind and begin to understand where it began: Perhaps this has been triggered in the past: by an environment, people, a person, upbringing etc. The work we do is non-judgemental and kind. My purpose is to help you find your way out of the confusion and suffering, so you can find purpose, meaning and peace in your life.
I use contemporary counselling theory, but I’m also interested in less traditional viewpoints: I spent 7 years as a Buddhist monk, and this naturally has a bearing on my work.
I offer counselling and therapeutic coaching. Clients will come to me with a range of problems and often feel some confusion and simply need to talk. In our work we will clarify the problem and see what is most challenging for you at the present time. We will discover where this confusion arises in the body and mind and begin to understand where it began: Perhaps this has been triggered in the past: by an environment, people, a person, upbringing etc. The work we do is non-judgemental and kind. My purpose is to help you find your way out of the confusion and suffering, so you can find purpose, meaning and peace in your life.
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Photo of Zoe Shobbrook-Fisher, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Zoe Shobbrook-Fisher
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Richmond TW9  (Online Only)
Through the effective integration of mindfulness and Self-Compassion in Therapy (SCIP), Buddhist psychology and the Person-Centred Approach you will discover transformational inner resources and insights.
Perhaps a particular event, experience or relationship, whether recent or in childhood, has left you feeling wounded, overwhelmed and unable to live with the sense of freedom and open heartedness that you long for. You may feel an underlying sense of never belonging, of shame and unworthiness. You recognise it’s time that you gave yourself the chance to try for a more satisfying and fulfilled life. Perhaps simply you need to talk through your concerns confidentially with someone who isn’t a friend or family member. Whatever you are bringing you need to feel safe, understood and experience meaningful change.
Through the effective integration of mindfulness and Self-Compassion in Therapy (SCIP), Buddhist psychology and the Person-Centred Approach you will discover transformational inner resources and insights.
Perhaps a particular event, experience or relationship, whether recent or in childhood, has left you feeling wounded, overwhelmed and unable to live with the sense of freedom and open heartedness that you long for. You may feel an underlying sense of never belonging, of shame and unworthiness. You recognise it’s time that you gave yourself the chance to try for a more satisfying and fulfilled life. Perhaps simply you need to talk through your concerns confidentially with someone who isn’t a friend or family member. Whatever you are bringing you need to feel safe, understood and experience meaningful change.
020 3984 8350 View 020 3984 8350
Photo of Gavin Weir-Jones, MA, PNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Gavin Weir-Jones
Psychotherapist, MA, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I do however draw strongly from Buddhist psychology and as a qualified Mindfulness Teacher, integrate talking therapies with guided meditative practices.
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
I do however draw strongly from Buddhist psychology and as a qualified Mindfulness Teacher, integrate talking therapies with guided meditative practices.
My work deals universally with the reduction of suffering, your suffering. Specifically this may include Depression, Anxiety, Low Mood, Loss of purpose, Grief, Relationship issues, managing change and family problems. Often we can be lost in our thinking and we can swing, like a pendulum, between worries of the past and anxieties of the future, never really pausing to be present now. This is normal, we all have these times. However sometimes, some of us get stuck in these places and need some guidance to bring us into balance and offer us support,at difficult times in our lives.
01392 531589 View 01392 531589
Photo of Matthew Lawrence Gorner, MA, BACP, Counsellor
Matthew Lawrence Gorner
Counsellor, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
I help creatives and professionals struggling with career and self-esteem related issues. Low confidence, imposter syndrome or self-sabotage, for example, can manifest in behaviours such as workaholism and burnout or conversely procrastination and under-achievement. I’m familiar with these issues helping clients work through and overcome them.
I help creatives and professionals struggling with career and self-esteem related issues. Low confidence, imposter syndrome or self-sabotage, for example, can manifest in behaviours such as workaholism and burnout or conversely procrastination and under-achievement. I’m familiar with these issues helping clients work through and overcome them.
020 4538 8660 View 020 4538 8660
Photo of Ayten Sare, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Ayten Sare
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London E17  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a fully qualified, UKCP registered Senior Group Analyst, Psychotherapist & Supervisor with 20 years experience aiming to support individuals, couples, and families who are facing with difficulties and assist them in gaining a better understanding by offering an accepting and warm space. Whether you feel depressed, anxious or want to understand yourself better, you may want to seek help to explore your inner world, I can provide you professional help in a non-judgemental and open atmosphere where you can get better insight. I invite clients from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and identities.
Hello and welcome to my page. I am a fully qualified, UKCP registered Senior Group Analyst, Psychotherapist & Supervisor with 20 years experience aiming to support individuals, couples, and families who are facing with difficulties and assist them in gaining a better understanding by offering an accepting and warm space. Whether you feel depressed, anxious or want to understand yourself better, you may want to seek help to explore your inner world, I can provide you professional help in a non-judgemental and open atmosphere where you can get better insight. I invite clients from all backgrounds, ethnicities, cultures and identities.
020 3984 9180 View 020 3984 9180
Photo of Lina Elijose
Lina Elijose
Verified Verified
Hampton TW12
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or emotional struggles, you're not alone. You may feel trapped in negative thought patterns, burdened by painful memories, or unsure of your self-worth. An example in nature is the lovely lotus, which grows from a bed of mud and muddy water, yet blooms in purity and beauty. Like the lotus and the pearl, you too can transform from difficult circumstances into something beautiful. Just as an oyster turns a piece of dirt into a pearl, you have the power to grow, heal, and reclaim your inner strength, ultimately reconnecting with your authentic self.
If you feel overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, or emotional struggles, you're not alone. You may feel trapped in negative thought patterns, burdened by painful memories, or unsure of your self-worth. An example in nature is the lovely lotus, which grows from a bed of mud and muddy water, yet blooms in purity and beauty. Like the lotus and the pearl, you too can transform from difficult circumstances into something beautiful. Just as an oyster turns a piece of dirt into a pearl, you have the power to grow, heal, and reclaim your inner strength, ultimately reconnecting with your authentic self.
01372 677213 View 01372 677213
Photo of Sophie Jane Miller, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Sophie Jane Miller
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oxford OX44
Are you stuck, finding life hard to manage or struggling with neurodiversity? Work with me to reconnect with your authentic self, the things that bring you joy and not get stuck on automatic pilot, playing parts that don't work any longer. You don't need to be unwell to benefit from psychosynthesis or mindfulness, although most people come to therapy when something gets stuck or unworkable in their lives. Whatever your reason to seek help, I believe in reconnecting you with what makes your heart sing.
Are you stuck, finding life hard to manage or struggling with neurodiversity? Work with me to reconnect with your authentic self, the things that bring you joy and not get stuck on automatic pilot, playing parts that don't work any longer. You don't need to be unwell to benefit from psychosynthesis or mindfulness, although most people come to therapy when something gets stuck or unworkable in their lives. Whatever your reason to seek help, I believe in reconnecting you with what makes your heart sing.
01865 900904 View 01865 900904
Photo of Alan Bordeville, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Alan Bordeville
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
St Albans AL1  (Online Only)
Are your days filled by constant stress, endless pressures and never ending to-do lists? Do you worry about what other people think and how to make them happy? Are you running yourself ragged while trying to keep your head above water? Do you think about all the things you just ‘have’ to do tomorrow? Do you question whether all you’re doing is even enough? And even as you try to fall asleep at night… Do you replay everything you could have done differently? When things aren’t working, it’s easy to feel… Powerless. Overwhelmed. Stuck. Frustrated. Like you don’t have any control. And you start thinking your needs aren't important.
Are your days filled by constant stress, endless pressures and never ending to-do lists? Do you worry about what other people think and how to make them happy? Are you running yourself ragged while trying to keep your head above water? Do you think about all the things you just ‘have’ to do tomorrow? Do you question whether all you’re doing is even enough? And even as you try to fall asleep at night… Do you replay everything you could have done differently? When things aren’t working, it’s easy to feel… Powerless. Overwhelmed. Stuck. Frustrated. Like you don’t have any control. And you start thinking your needs aren't important.
020 3376 8107 View 020 3376 8107
Photo of Shaman Emrys, MA
Shaman Emrys
MA
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I have the best job in the world: it’s to help you find the peace you’re looking for. That’s what I’ve been doing, first as a shamanic counsellor then as a psychotherapist, for others just like you, for 46 years. Whether you have a phobia, or are in a dire, life-threatening situation, or anything in between, you’re just a call away from finding yourself warmly welcomed to a totally non-judgemental, safe, comfortable space where you can relax and unload whatever you want in total confidence: then we can get straight to work fixing it.
I have the best job in the world: it’s to help you find the peace you’re looking for. That’s what I’ve been doing, first as a shamanic counsellor then as a psychotherapist, for others just like you, for 46 years. Whether you have a phobia, or are in a dire, life-threatening situation, or anything in between, you’re just a call away from finding yourself warmly welcomed to a totally non-judgemental, safe, comfortable space where you can relax and unload whatever you want in total confidence: then we can get straight to work fixing it.
01359 302635 View 01359 302635
Photo of Stefania Panzeri - London Bridge Counselling Stefania , MBACP, Psychotherapist
London Bridge Counselling Stefania
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Having therapy can be a difficult decision, especially when you feel low, self-critical, lonely, anxious, not worthy of having this type of care for your own self. The power to feel better and release this pain is within you, and I can help you access it. Together we can learn the best way for you to reach and keep a good self-esteem and mental health. I offer a confidential space in which you can feel understood, cared for, free to talk about anything that you require. I also offer walking therapy sessions, in peaceful green areas in London. For some clients this has proven deeply beneficial, if interested please enquire.
Having therapy can be a difficult decision, especially when you feel low, self-critical, lonely, anxious, not worthy of having this type of care for your own self. The power to feel better and release this pain is within you, and I can help you access it. Together we can learn the best way for you to reach and keep a good self-esteem and mental health. I offer a confidential space in which you can feel understood, cared for, free to talk about anything that you require. I also offer walking therapy sessions, in peaceful green areas in London. For some clients this has proven deeply beneficial, if interested please enquire.
020 4538 2214 x0044 View 020 4538 2214 x0044
Photo of Rhodri Karim, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Rhodri Karim
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
I offer embodied, relational psychotherapy. My aim is to nourish a felt sense of wholeness, and support your growth in the here-and-now. I have expertise in recovery from abuse, gender and sexuality, transitions and crisis, and integration of psychedelic, spiritual and extraordinary experience. I am committed to anti-oppressive practice, affirming of trans experience, knowledgeable in issues of gender, sexual and relationship diversity (GSRD), and work with the difference that makes you who you are.
I offer embodied, relational psychotherapy. My aim is to nourish a felt sense of wholeness, and support your growth in the here-and-now. I have expertise in recovery from abuse, gender and sexuality, transitions and crisis, and integration of psychedelic, spiritual and extraordinary experience. I am committed to anti-oppressive practice, affirming of trans experience, knowledgeable in issues of gender, sexual and relationship diversity (GSRD), and work with the difference that makes you who you are.
020 3910 6822 View 020 3910 6822
Photo of Hyunho Khang, MA, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Hyunho Khang
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
I have wide experience counselling a diverse range of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loss, grief, anger issues, confidence issues, relationship difficulties, issues around sex, issues at work, ADHD, addiction, eating issues, abuse and trauma. I work in conjunction with NHS services and other health professionals to support adults in the South West. I have a particular interest in working with clients with relationship difficulties (including sex issues), clients affected by narcissism in their relationships, and clients with somatic problems including pain, chronic fatigue, ME, IBS and fibromyalgia.
0117 325 2122 View 0117 325 2122
1

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Buddhist Counsellors

Is buddhism beneficial for mental health?

While Buddhism itself is not a treatment for mental health conditions, its practices can greatly enhance mental well-being by introducing coping skills and ideas that promote overall wellness. Key Buddhist practices, such as mindfulness, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. Moreover, Buddhism's focus on self-compassion, non-judgment, and acceptance can benefit individuals with particularly negative or self-critical thought patterns.

What are the concepts and principles of buddhism as a therapeutic approach?

Core Buddhist principles are often used in therapy to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. Concepts such as suffering (dukkha) and impermanence (anicca) are applied to help clients recognise that common forms of suffering, like repetitive negative thought patterns, can be accepted and viewed as impermanent. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are additional core concepts utilised frequently in Buddhist therapy sessions. The Four Noble Truths highlight the existence of suffering as an inherent part of the human experience—an insight frequently used to move clients toward greater acceptance. The Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right concentration, and right mindfulness, offers practical skills to alleviate suffering.

What is the buddhist approach and practice during a therapy session?

Therapists informed by Buddhist principles often integrate mindfulness and meditation practices into therapy sessions to help clients cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and non-judgment toward themselves and others. Typically, Buddhist therapists guide clients through mindfulness exercises, such as breathing exercises or body scans, and encourage them to practice similar exercises outside of sessions. Additionally, many Buddhist therapists utilise elements of Positive Psychology or Compassion-Focused Therapy, which can help reduce symptoms of self-criticism and shame common among clients with various mental health conditions. In general, Buddhist therapists strive to embody the compassion and non-judgmental approach they promote, often incorporating exercises aimed at developing compassion in session, such as loving-kindness meditation (Metta).

Is mindfulness the same as buddhism in the context of therapy?

While Buddhist therapists frequently integrate mindfulness practices into therapy sessions, the terms mindfulness and Buddhism are not synonymous in the context of therapy. Therapists may use mindfulness techniques, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), without identifying as a Buddhist therapist. In contrast, those practicing within a Buddhist belief framework typically encourage mindfulness therapies, in addition to foundational Buddhist beliefs, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These therapists may also guide clients toward a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy, unlike those who use Buddhist mindfulness principles without the broader spiritual context.