Buddhist Therapists in Nashville, TN
My involvement with Buddhist meditation and philosophy for 48 years has led me to believe that we are all capable of developing peace of mind.
In my 46 years of practice as a psychologist, in Tennessee, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire, I have had the honor and privilege of working with so many patients on their paths of exploration, personal growth, and healing. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic, existential, and Buddhist theories, with a focus on integrating mindfulness and compassion with self and others. It is my belief that the quality of the psychotherapy relationship between therapist and patient is the principal healing force in treatment. Thus, I do my best to form a good and ethical therapeutic relationship with each of my patients.
My involvement with Buddhist meditation and philosophy for 48 years has led me to believe that we are all capable of developing peace of mind.
In my 46 years of practice as a psychologist, in Tennessee, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire, I have had the honor and privilege of working with so many patients on their paths of exploration, personal growth, and healing. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic, existential, and Buddhist theories, with a focus on integrating mindfulness and compassion with self and others. It is my belief that the quality of the psychotherapy relationship between therapist and patient is the principal healing force in treatment. Thus, I do my best to form a good and ethical therapeutic relationship with each of my patients.
Diana Partington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
If you struggle with overwhelming emotions, I can teach you skills in a supportive, engaging environment. You can join my Online DBT skills training groups from anywhere in the world. I also offer Individual DBT therapy for people in Tennessee, including Skills Coaching by phone, Individual Therapy and group. Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a highly effective, well researched therapy. The work demands a lot from Therapist and client. And it is worth it! Most clients report that my sense of humor and authenticity is one of the reasons they like working with me. I really value the use of "irreverence" in DBT.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
Katy (she/her) is a pre-licensed clinician with experience working with individuals in different stages of life with a wide variety of clinical concerns. She uses a person-centered approach to her work, combining holistic and mindfulness-based techniques.
Let me guess-you are stuck and frustrated. On the outside you look like you have it together but on the inside you’re a hot mess. Or maybe you’re a hot mess on the outside too because you just can’t keep going on like this anymore. You overthink everything because your brain mistakes thinking for doing. You have one foot on the gas and one on the brakes and you are going nowhere. You know your patterns, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships aren’t working, but you don’t know where to begin.
Let me guess-you are stuck and frustrated. On the outside you look like you have it together but on the inside you’re a hot mess. Or maybe you’re a hot mess on the outside too because you just can’t keep going on like this anymore. You overthink everything because your brain mistakes thinking for doing. You have one foot on the gas and one on the brakes and you are going nowhere. You know your patterns, thoughts, behaviors, or relationships aren’t working, but you don’t know where to begin.
Aaron M Petrie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215 (Online Only)
Athletes and professionals often face unique mental challenges, including performance anxiety, focus fluctuations, self-doubt, and the stress of constant high expectations. Engaging in therapy is a brave step toward mastering these issues. With guidance and working with Aaron, you'll develop tailored strategies to bolster your mental agility and confidence. This personalized support aims to improve not only your performance but also your overall well-being, enabling you to thrive under pressure and succeed in high-stakes environments.
Athletes and professionals often face unique mental challenges, including performance anxiety, focus fluctuations, self-doubt, and the stress of constant high expectations. Engaging in therapy is a brave step toward mastering these issues. With guidance and working with Aaron, you'll develop tailored strategies to bolster your mental agility and confidence. This personalized support aims to improve not only your performance but also your overall well-being, enabling you to thrive under pressure and succeed in high-stakes environments.
Nicki Sindle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, EMDR II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
Asking for help and deciding to begin therapy is a difficult decision, requiring courage and strength. I commend you on taking the first step toward feeling better, self-awareness, and personal growth. My goal is to empower clients to make positive changes in their emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical health. As clients learn to identify & reprocess their negative beliefs, they are able to make personal improvements in lifestyle choices & relationships. I aim to provide a physically and emotionally safe and caring environment for clients to engage in a interactive process to ultimately make the positive changes they wish for.
Elon Benjamin Slutsky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I work with clients on a wide variety of issues, always with the intention of increasing wellbeing and helping clients find meaning in their experience . Setting goals for therapy in collaboration with my clients is an essential part of my approach. In therapy, I try to integrate many aspects of human experience, and draw on my own wide range of life and professional experiences, including work as a teacher, living abroad, and my professional experience as a practicing attorney for more than a decade. I am supervised by Corinne Webster, PhD.
I work with clients on a wide variety of issues, always with the intention of increasing wellbeing and helping clients find meaning in their experience . Setting goals for therapy in collaboration with my clients is an essential part of my approach. In therapy, I try to integrate many aspects of human experience, and draw on my own wide range of life and professional experiences, including work as a teacher, living abroad, and my professional experience as a practicing attorney for more than a decade. I am supervised by Corinne Webster, PhD.
Roxanne Hallisey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
Throughout my life, I've formed connections with people from all walks of life, nurturing a deep appreciation for the tapestry of human connection and the beauty of our unique differences. In the moments when we experience empathy and awe within our connections, we discover the potential for growth, self-awareness, and healing, even when life presents its most challenging moments. My therapy approach is centered around you. It's about facilitating healing through relationship, making meaning through self-awareness, and finding your unique strengths to help you live authentically.
Throughout my life, I've formed connections with people from all walks of life, nurturing a deep appreciation for the tapestry of human connection and the beauty of our unique differences. In the moments when we experience empathy and awe within our connections, we discover the potential for growth, self-awareness, and healing, even when life presents its most challenging moments. My therapy approach is centered around you. It's about facilitating healing through relationship, making meaning through self-awareness, and finding your unique strengths to help you live authentically.
Sarah Broyles Ledbetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
In Rhythm Therapy - Jeremy Cox, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Have you done all the things you were supposed to and still find yourself feeling disconnected, anxious, and filled with self-doubt? Despite your accomplishments you don’t feel the sense of fulfillment you expected. A big life change—maybe a breakup, new job, new marriage, or move—has highlighted the fact that you’re still not as happy or content as you want to be. Something is telling you that you need to make a shift (even if you’re not quite sure what it is). You’re ready to enjoy relationships that give you a sense of belonging and understanding and to feel confident in the direction your life is headed.
Have you done all the things you were supposed to and still find yourself feeling disconnected, anxious, and filled with self-doubt? Despite your accomplishments you don’t feel the sense of fulfillment you expected. A big life change—maybe a breakup, new job, new marriage, or move—has highlighted the fact that you’re still not as happy or content as you want to be. Something is telling you that you need to make a shift (even if you’re not quite sure what it is). You’re ready to enjoy relationships that give you a sense of belonging and understanding and to feel confident in the direction your life is headed.
My approach to psychological healing is integrative, mixing psychodynamic, mind/body, transpersonal, mindfulness, and CBT approaches to psychotherapy. My philosophy of therapy stresses respect for the client and the client’s experience. Therapy often involves the exploration of family of origin issues and the impact of old conditioning on current functioning. I also emphasize the importance of developing existing personal strengths and resources. I often use a personality system called the Enneagram to clarify client strengths and issues. I have expertise in mindfulness. See my website, www.musiccitytherapy.com.
My approach to psychological healing is integrative, mixing psychodynamic, mind/body, transpersonal, mindfulness, and CBT approaches to psychotherapy. My philosophy of therapy stresses respect for the client and the client’s experience. Therapy often involves the exploration of family of origin issues and the impact of old conditioning on current functioning. I also emphasize the importance of developing existing personal strengths and resources. I often use a personality system called the Enneagram to clarify client strengths and issues. I have expertise in mindfulness. See my website, www.musiccitytherapy.com.
15 Second Videos
Diana Partington
Roxanne Hallisey
In Rhythm Therapy - Jeremy Cox, LMFT
Tom Rhodes
Chelsi Dawn Williamson
Laura McMaster
Christie Bates
Kim Ratcliffe
Bryan Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, MDiv, MBA
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37220
Feeling stuck, wanting to make improvements in your life? Addictions, affairs, unhappy relationships, loss, grief, shame, sudden or permanent life changes -- I can help you gain understanding and relief, in a safe, supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental setting. It takes courage to try new ways of thinking and behaving in the quest to identify and fulfill unmet needs. I can accompany you through the process of self-discovery, self-acceptance, forgiveness, healing, personal growth and freedom.
Feeling stuck, wanting to make improvements in your life? Addictions, affairs, unhappy relationships, loss, grief, shame, sudden or permanent life changes -- I can help you gain understanding and relief, in a safe, supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental setting. It takes courage to try new ways of thinking and behaving in the quest to identify and fulfill unmet needs. I can accompany you through the process of self-discovery, self-acceptance, forgiveness, healing, personal growth and freedom.
I know how hard it can be to look at endless profiles on here to find the "right" person. I also get just how exhausting it can be to be a human sometimes! Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and have made insights but still find yourself in the same patterns- numbing out, escaping, lashing out, etc. I offer something different. As a somatic and mindfulness based therapist, I help you tune into the nervous system, the body, and present moment as a doorway into helping you access deeper parts of yourself. In this process, I am beside you as you meet yourself and step into the growth and transformation waiting to take root.
I know how hard it can be to look at endless profiles on here to find the "right" person. I also get just how exhausting it can be to be a human sometimes! Perhaps you've tried talk therapy and have made insights but still find yourself in the same patterns- numbing out, escaping, lashing out, etc. I offer something different. As a somatic and mindfulness based therapist, I help you tune into the nervous system, the body, and present moment as a doorway into helping you access deeper parts of yourself. In this process, I am beside you as you meet yourself and step into the growth and transformation waiting to take root.
Ketamine Assisted Therapy with Musenge
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Welcome! No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you with embodying wellness in all areas of your life. I am a black, cisgendered, neurodistinct, 1st generation multicultural, nature loving queer biological and adoptive parent with over a decade of experience working with gender expansive adults, sexual minorities and multiracial intimate relationships. I prioritize promoting a safe, non-forceful, collaborative exploration, embracing pleasure-centered, kink affirming and non-monogamous relationship structures while practicing intersectional, anti-oppression and decolonizing work.
Welcome! No matter where you are in your journey, I am here to support you with embodying wellness in all areas of your life. I am a black, cisgendered, neurodistinct, 1st generation multicultural, nature loving queer biological and adoptive parent with over a decade of experience working with gender expansive adults, sexual minorities and multiracial intimate relationships. I prioritize promoting a safe, non-forceful, collaborative exploration, embracing pleasure-centered, kink affirming and non-monogamous relationship structures while practicing intersectional, anti-oppression and decolonizing work.
Sacred Lotus Journey, LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, Temp, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37219
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
As a therapist, I love to walk alongside you during your self discovery journey of becoming your true authentic self. And on this journey of well being, one will learn the importance of self love, self care, boundary setting, effective communication, problem solving, emotional regulation, and displaying your true authentic self. And first things first, you MUST start with your mind, body, and spirit and I will like to assist you in every goal you set for yourself in a holistic way.
Do you notice yourself being forgetful or having brain fog? Or those close to you point out that you seem “out of it?" Maybe you questioned if past events actually happened or if these hurtful experiences should affect you like they do today. You might also have a hard time expressing your emotions because of overwhelm, numbness, or fear of judgement. And there's a harsh inner critic that makes it hard to accept parts of yourself. If this resonates with you, know you're not alone.
Do you notice yourself being forgetful or having brain fog? Or those close to you point out that you seem “out of it?" Maybe you questioned if past events actually happened or if these hurtful experiences should affect you like they do today. You might also have a hard time expressing your emotions because of overwhelm, numbness, or fear of judgement. And there's a harsh inner critic that makes it hard to accept parts of yourself. If this resonates with you, know you're not alone.
Garrette DeBord
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients Are you always a little bit afraid to be yourself? Have you been hit with what feels like more than you can handle alone? I know those feelings exactly! I am honored to work with those in the LGBTQ+ community as well as individuals who struggle with substance use issues, trauma, anxiety/depression. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective to offer a safe space for those striving for a more fulfilling life.
Accepting New Clients Are you always a little bit afraid to be yourself? Have you been hit with what feels like more than you can handle alone? I know those feelings exactly! I am honored to work with those in the LGBTQ+ community as well as individuals who struggle with substance use issues, trauma, anxiety/depression. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective to offer a safe space for those striving for a more fulfilling life.
Many of us struggle with defenses and behaviors we have developed in order to escape the pain of our lives, whether it be in the form of substances, food, sex/relationships, work, perfectionism, dissociation, or something else, and in our understandable attempts to avoid this pain we become disconnected from our authentic self and body in the process. As a result, we can often wind up creating even more suffering for ourselves and begin to not only numb the pain, but the joys as well.
Many of us struggle with defenses and behaviors we have developed in order to escape the pain of our lives, whether it be in the form of substances, food, sex/relationships, work, perfectionism, dissociation, or something else, and in our understandable attempts to avoid this pain we become disconnected from our authentic self and body in the process. As a result, we can often wind up creating even more suffering for ourselves and begin to not only numb the pain, but the joys as well.
Welcome. Whether you are struggling in your relationship or are tired of feeling anxious and depressed, I can help you connect with yourself, and in turn with others, in a new way toward feeling better soon. I honor and respect everything within you, in the midst of your search and struggle, which has brought you here. I really get how lonely, desperate, hopeless feeling or even numbing, that struggle can be. I have an MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco — the first program in the world to blend Western schools of psychology with Eastern spiritual traditions.
Welcome. Whether you are struggling in your relationship or are tired of feeling anxious and depressed, I can help you connect with yourself, and in turn with others, in a new way toward feeling better soon. I honor and respect everything within you, in the midst of your search and struggle, which has brought you here. I really get how lonely, desperate, hopeless feeling or even numbing, that struggle can be. I have an MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco — the first program in the world to blend Western schools of psychology with Eastern spiritual traditions.
Chelsi Dawn Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CYT-200
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
My name is Chelsi Williamson and I specialize in children and families. I am trained in EMDR for trauma resolution. I love working with family systems: be it mothers, fathers, couples, children, teens, etc. I see things through a physiologically based trauma lens with a deep understanding of how trauma gets stored in the physical body. It is a passion of mine to help all impacted individuals release the burden of carried trauma, particularly inter-generational trauma. I love working with women trying to show up for family and change pervasive patterns.
See more therapy options for Nashville
Buddhist Therapists
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.