Buddhist Psychiatrists in Alameda County, CA
![Photo of Dr. Ana Verzone, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c669170d-a3a7-4b65-b46f-913e804bb080/1/320x400.png)
Ana has been a dedicated meditator and Buddhist practitioner since 1992 and completed a 2-year mindfulness teacher training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, in-depth training in Mindful Self-Compassion at UCSD's Center for Mindfulness, is in the Dedicated Practitioner Program at Spirit Rock, and regularly participates in silent vipassana retreats.
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
Ana has been a dedicated meditator and Buddhist practitioner since 1992 and completed a 2-year mindfulness teacher training with Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach, in-depth training in Mindful Self-Compassion at UCSD's Center for Mindfulness, is in the Dedicated Practitioner Program at Spirit Rock, and regularly participates in silent vipassana retreats.
Ana is a doctorally-prepared PMHNP and FNP and mindfulness meditation teacher. She specializes in mindfulness-based and psychedelic-assisted therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), and nature-based wilderness retreats to help people discover their soul purpose and make the most of this one precious life. She is the founder of Insight AK and is the host of the top-rated Rebel Buddhist podcast. Ana is an undeniable multi-passionate and consummate learner, with a degree in Clinical Psychology and multiple graduate degrees from UCSC, UCSF and Johns Hopkins University. She is also a Master Certified Life Coach.
![Photo of Bradley Engwall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4af405e7-8358-409a-b815-62d8d913c6ea/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
I'm a board-certified, integrative pediatric and adult psychiatrist. I work with people interested in targetting root causes of suffering as much as possible. We know that for many, the roots can be psychological and in brain connections/wiring. New therapies allow us to target both of these more than ever.: Neurofeedback, TMS, Genetic and EEG markers that can personalize lifestyle, supplement and medication treatment. When properly used in the right setting, ketamine is known to dramatically speed up psychotherapy progress.
![Photo of Amy Leung, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbd43b61-a471-4d60-a2e1-c4628aaf63cc/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering diagnostic evaluation and treatment in psychotherapy, medication-assisted psychotherapy, and medication management. After completing training at Duke University Medical Center, I engaged in further studies at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis and at California Institute for Integral Studies. I have facility in multiple modalities and am engaged in discovering which one is most effective for you. I am especially interested in the experiences of first and second generation Americans, intergenerational trauma, and integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
I am a board certified psychiatrist offering diagnostic evaluation and treatment in psychotherapy, medication-assisted psychotherapy, and medication management. After completing training at Duke University Medical Center, I engaged in further studies at San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis and at California Institute for Integral Studies. I have facility in multiple modalities and am engaged in discovering which one is most effective for you. I am especially interested in the experiences of first and second generation Americans, intergenerational trauma, and integration of non-ordinary states of consciousness.
![Photo of Catherine Stayer, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7d69b2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
INTEGRATIVE PSYCHIATRY for CHILDREN, TEENS, ADULTS, and COUPLES.
I see my role as one who accompanies you on a journey towards optimal health, vitality, and personal growth. Depending on your unique needs, my approach combines conventional modalities (i.e., medications and therapy) with complementary (i.e., botanicals, nutriceuticals, nutrition, acupuncture, guided imagery, etc.). The goal is not merely to treat symptoms, but to address the matrix of underlying causes and the obstacles that keep you from living your best life.
![Photo of Stanley Arnold Terman - Living Wills for Dementia / Stanley Terman, PhD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2d06e5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Living Wills for Dementia / Stanley Terman
Psychiatrist, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94720
Stanley Terman's career focuses on empowering people to make informed decisions so they can successfully meet challenges in their lives with more pleasure, less suffering, and improved relationships. He helps couples and families in several ways. These include reducing the suffering of terminally ill patients and their loved ones, especially if they face huge challenges of Advanced Dementia and desire an "Ironclad Strategy" to compel others to honor their end-of-life wishes. In collaboration with clinicians, bioethicists, chaplains, and attorneys, he founded a non-profit organization, wrote three books, and created the patient decision aid, "My Way Cards."
Stanley Terman's career focuses on empowering people to make informed decisions so they can successfully meet challenges in their lives with more pleasure, less suffering, and improved relationships. He helps couples and families in several ways. These include reducing the suffering of terminally ill patients and their loved ones, especially if they face huge challenges of Advanced Dementia and desire an "Ironclad Strategy" to compel others to honor their end-of-life wishes. In collaboration with clinicians, bioethicists, chaplains, and attorneys, he founded a non-profit organization, wrote three books, and created the patient decision aid, "My Way Cards."
![Photo of Dr. James Eyerman - Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5b5af0b-8564-4529-8ce8-185cb2c2a5c1/1/320x400.png)
Integrative Psychiatry w Dr James Eyerman
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, ABIHM
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
Welcome. I treat patients facing a wide variety of physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. Depending on your specific needs, the treatment can involve medication as well as psychotherapy. We may work with depth and transpersonal psychology, dreams, non-drug psychedelic states of consciousness, and hypnosis. I also offer acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine, meditation techniques, EMDR, and holotropic breathwork.
Welcome. I treat patients facing a wide variety of physical, mental, and spiritual challenges. Depending on your specific needs, the treatment can involve medication as well as psychotherapy. We may work with depth and transpersonal psychology, dreams, non-drug psychedelic states of consciousness, and hypnosis. I also offer acupuncture, ayurvedic medicine, meditation techniques, EMDR, and holotropic breathwork.
![Photo of Rachel Vinkey, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c5a2979-4e29-4200-97ed-fd92c753132a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I completed my residency training at Harvard’s Cambridge Hospital and I am a former UCSF faculty member. I am Board Certified with over twenty-five years experience in psychotherapy and medication management. I see adults who are working their way through life stressors and transitions and may be experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I completed my residency training at Harvard’s Cambridge Hospital and I am a former UCSF faculty member. I am Board Certified with over twenty-five years experience in psychotherapy and medication management. I see adults who are working their way through life stressors and transitions and may be experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Jennifer Ruthenburg, MD, MA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d460bea-01b8-4960-ae2b-3ebe36f30bae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Prior to starting medical school, I completed a master’s degree in religious studies, focused on Buddhist studies.
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
Prior to starting medical school, I completed a master’s degree in religious studies, focused on Buddhist studies.
I take an integrative approach to treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma related disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, psycho-oncologic and end of life issues. I have special training and expertise in treating mental health symptoms and disorders relating to pregnancy/postpartum, perimenopause and PMDD. I also have training in a range of psychotherapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic, Jungian, mindfulness-based, and psychedelic assisted psychotherapy. My last name was previously Hagstrom.
![Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - Sheenie Ambardar, MD, Concierge Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81397c7d-48de-44fe-90b5-e7caa9d0a27a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
Are you seeking a culturally sensitive psychiatrist and therapist who understands and respects your unique cultural heritage and will genuinely honor your lived experiences, history, and personal journey? Have you been told that psychiatry and therapy are only for those lacking in inner strength and resolve? Are you in need of a supportive environment where you can freely express yourself and get the treatment you need for Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, OCD, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Insomnia?
![Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/215d7e40-31a2-46f3-b30f-f7af0bf5a196/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Have you ever found yourself zoning out during meetings, struggling to finish chores, or losing track of time? These could all be signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It's not about being lazy - it's actually related to your brain's executive functioning, which affects your ability to focus, plan, and organize. As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience successfully treating Adult ADHD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms. With the right diagnosis & treatment, you can expect improved focus, less distractibility, and a renewed sense of happiness & vitality.
Have you ever found yourself zoning out during meetings, struggling to finish chores, or losing track of time? These could all be signs of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It's not about being lazy - it's actually related to your brain's executive functioning, which affects your ability to focus, plan, and organize. As an award-winning psychiatrist with 16 years of experience successfully treating Adult ADHD, I offer a personalized approach that goes beyond managing symptoms. With the right diagnosis & treatment, you can expect improved focus, less distractibility, and a renewed sense of happiness & vitality.
![Photo of Elio Pedroso Conroy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6a55df7-ced3-4383-85cc-f3da4c009b13/1/320x400.png)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist. After graduating from medical school, I worked as a primary care physician in Brazil for few years gaining extra experience in general medicine. After that, I completed 4 years of Psychiatry residency training at Saint Elizabeth Hospital in Washington DC. Treating patients with severe mental illness during my formal training gave me vast experience in medication management.
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
I am committed the relief of distress in the mind emotions and difficulty functioning in youth, adults and those in advanced years. A comprehensive evaluation, a treatment plan developed collaboratively attends to the biologic psychic and interpersonal issues present. After training as a pediatrician, my fascination with the development of the brain and mind lead me to retrain as a psychiatrist. I enjoy making the process of therapy feel engaging and safe and attempt to be actively useful in guiding people develop a deeper understanding of the ways in which the mind works. There is a map to how we create our emotional states.
![Photo of Kerrie Humbatova - Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/449b6784-5070-4dbb-a7fd-715ba446f2c0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Remedy Psychiatric Services A Nursing Corporation
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
If you are tired of meeting with provider after provider and not finding the one that fits, then book with me. Appointments 7A - 7P daily, weekends & holidays! I extend my care to individuals with diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I respect and honor each individual’s preferences and values, including their desire to utilize alternative therapies alongside traditional interventions, such as Ketamine. Schedule Today! Text me on my 24 hour HIPAA compliant number 510-439-9985.
If you are tired of meeting with provider after provider and not finding the one that fits, then book with me. Appointments 7A - 7P daily, weekends & holidays! I extend my care to individuals with diverse backgrounds and addressing a range of mental health conditions. Specializing in trauma, serious mental health conditions, geriatrics, and MAT for recovery. I respect and honor each individual’s preferences and values, including their desire to utilize alternative therapies alongside traditional interventions, such as Ketamine. Schedule Today! Text me on my 24 hour HIPAA compliant number 510-439-9985.
![Photo of Shannon Jones, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91eac78f-8eb7-4a80-9288-9516725eaa6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95687 (Online Only)
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
My name is Shannon Jones and I am an Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a holistic focused, patient-centered provider who chooses to focus on the inner-healing ability of every person. My goal is to support clients on their journey to heal themselves utilizing both traditional and alternative methods. I am an Army veteran comfortable working with veterans, first responders, police, firefighters and other first-line trauma workers.
![Photo of Kevin Wesley Lu, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb7ab933-cef4-42cf-a36b-4ddec9edecfa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you facing challenges with anxiety, depression, or attention-related issues? Kevin is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP, ensuring you receive care from a qualified professional with a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing. With a focus on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more, Kevin brings a wealth of experience in addressing a wide range of mental health issues. His diverse specialization allows for a nuanced and tailored approach to your needs.
Are you facing challenges with anxiety, depression, or attention-related issues? Kevin is a board-certified Psychiatry PMHNP, ensuring you receive care from a qualified professional with a solid foundation in psychiatric nursing. With a focus on Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, and more, Kevin brings a wealth of experience in addressing a wide range of mental health issues. His diverse specialization allows for a nuanced and tailored approach to your needs.
![Photo of Gene Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76afeaf8-b7af-4c04-b334-7a16c99b9e3e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gene Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
![Photo of Tom Xia - Doctor Xia Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ac79858-922d-433e-9dc5-035c90137fb1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic mind and body treatment using psychiatric medication and intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP). I specialize in management of mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD. Visit www.drxia.org for more info.
Holistic mind and body treatment using psychiatric medication and intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP). I specialize in management of mood disorders, anxiety, and ADHD. Visit www.drxia.org for more info.
![Photo of Dr. Earth Hasassri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a0e140a-beae-4ca0-a778-7faad204a6b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
I'm a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist with training from Stanford, UCSF, and the Mayo Clinic. My goal is to help you or your loved one start feeling better. I take the time to listen closely to understand what you're experiencing and can provide support through both therapy and medication. I work with individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and specialize in treating ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other unique neuropsychiatric conditions. Together, we'll work towards your goals and enhance your quality of life.
![Photo of Moushumi Mukerji, PMHNP, CNM, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d46264b4-98cc-4f75-9c88-5278631da57f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Moushumi Mukerji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
You are of the nature to heal and grow! Integrative and thoughtful use of medications, ketamine, & therapy. I treat most diagnoses-depression, bipolar, PTSD, complex traumas, ADHD, and OCD-but I am primarily interested in who you are and how I can help you, not in your diagnosis. As a former nurse-midwife I specialize in depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, perinatal loss, sexual trauma, PMS/PMDD, and menopause. I offer help with the unique psychological issues affecting people identified as women, immigrants, and people of color. I work with teens and adults up to age 65. Telehealth and in-person
You are of the nature to heal and grow! Integrative and thoughtful use of medications, ketamine, & therapy. I treat most diagnoses-depression, bipolar, PTSD, complex traumas, ADHD, and OCD-but I am primarily interested in who you are and how I can help you, not in your diagnosis. As a former nurse-midwife I specialize in depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, perinatal loss, sexual trauma, PMS/PMDD, and menopause. I offer help with the unique psychological issues affecting people identified as women, immigrants, and people of color. I work with teens and adults up to age 65. Telehealth and in-person
![Photo of Gene Vasconez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b181a4b4-43e9-4f5d-bd73-4c309e74be1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gene Vasconez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
Hi, I'm Genesis (Gene) Vasconez and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 6 years of clinical experience in the field. I specialize in psychotic disorders, dual diagnosis, and substance use. My approach follows a trauma-informed model; placing safety, communication, and healing at every step of the way. At the core of my care is cultural humility, acceptance, safety, and compassion. I approach each session with an aim to foster trust by listening to clients and ensuring they have a choice and voice.
See more therapy options for Alameda County
Buddhist Psychiatrists
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 recognize 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 utilized 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 utilize 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.