Buddhist Therapists in Aurora, CO
![Photo of Denise Tran-Miles, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2998434-63d5-49cf-9c88-aaea5f7ef4e9/1/320x400.png)
Denise Tran-Miles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013 (Online Only)
Transformation and healing can be an empowering and a beautiful process. I focus on educating, encouraging, and empowering clients to make positive decisions in their lives. The results of these positive decisions can help clients move closer to realizing their values and goals. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I accept and embrace differences among each person, and I am committed to helping others achieve their goals to the best of my ability. I provide cognitive and behavioral therapies as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in my sessions.
Transformation and healing can be an empowering and a beautiful process. I focus on educating, encouraging, and empowering clients to make positive decisions in their lives. The results of these positive decisions can help clients move closer to realizing their values and goals. I am compassionate, caring, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I accept and embrace differences among each person, and I am committed to helping others achieve their goals to the best of my ability. I provide cognitive and behavioral therapies as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in my sessions.
![Photo of Sallie Harper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520ec994-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sallie Harper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80012 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years counseling experience. I have a statewide, online practice. I help clients' focus on their personal and professional development goals, including relationships, parenting, and career shifts. I utilize research-based frameworks such as Gottman, Montessori, and Firestone in my work with couples and families. For individuals, I uses writers useful for opening up creativity, such as Richo, Cameron, Lamott.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years counseling experience. I have a statewide, online practice. I help clients' focus on their personal and professional development goals, including relationships, parenting, and career shifts. I utilize research-based frameworks such as Gottman, Montessori, and Firestone in my work with couples and families. For individuals, I uses writers useful for opening up creativity, such as Richo, Cameron, Lamott.
![Photo of Emily Kasper - Gentle Compass Counseling, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62558443-3f75-4301-bd64-f8a956b9b48e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gentle Compass Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
At Gentle Compass, we understand that finding the right therapist can make all the difference in your mental health journey. Our passionate team of therapists specializes in trauma, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, attachment-related trauma, children, and parenting. Many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, depressed, lost, disconnected, or anxious, often having had previous therapy experiences that didn't quite fit or meet their needs. At Gentle Compass, we strive to support you in becoming your most authentic self.
At Gentle Compass, we understand that finding the right therapist can make all the difference in your mental health journey. Our passionate team of therapists specializes in trauma, grief, LGBTQ+ issues, attachment-related trauma, children, and parenting. Many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed, depressed, lost, disconnected, or anxious, often having had previous therapy experiences that didn't quite fit or meet their needs. At Gentle Compass, we strive to support you in becoming your most authentic self.
![Photo of Carol A Williams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4608966d-b9cd-40ff-a0e5-9a8d2f0d32a7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Carol A Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014 (Online Only)
Over years of experience, I have discovered that people develop a way of thinking about themselves, others, the world. How we think determines how we experience life. This way of thinking includes negative beliefs that we develop about ourselves. There's really only a handful and they sound something like "I don't matter" or "I'm worthless," "It's never good enough" or maybe "something is wrong with me." These beliefs keep us stuck because they are not just in our heads. They are connected with emotional experiences, often very painful. So even though we know we're worthy, we don't feel worthy.
Over years of experience, I have discovered that people develop a way of thinking about themselves, others, the world. How we think determines how we experience life. This way of thinking includes negative beliefs that we develop about ourselves. There's really only a handful and they sound something like "I don't matter" or "I'm worthless," "It's never good enough" or maybe "something is wrong with me." These beliefs keep us stuck because they are not just in our heads. They are connected with emotional experiences, often very painful. So even though we know we're worthy, we don't feel worthy.
![Photo of Emily Kasper, MEd, LPC, LMHC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58c188de-c9d1-4dfe-8efc-c3a9be7e786f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Kasper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC, EdS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80014
My name is Emily Kasper, I am a graduate of the University of Florida and specialize in working with children, teens, adults and parents. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I am EMDR Trained, and I specialize in trauma and attachment disorders. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard and valued. I believe we are able to heal and shift dysfunctional relationships through the safe and secure relationship in therapy. I believe every person needs a safe place to share their feelings and be shown unconditional acceptance.
My name is Emily Kasper, I am a graduate of the University of Florida and specialize in working with children, teens, adults and parents. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. I am EMDR Trained, and I specialize in trauma and attachment disorders. I believe that everyone deserves to be seen, heard and valued. I believe we are able to heal and shift dysfunctional relationships through the safe and secure relationship in therapy. I believe every person needs a safe place to share their feelings and be shown unconditional acceptance.
![Photo of Dr. Jessica Waters, PhD, CRADC, CCTP, ADDC, CMHIMP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34e8dc46-f6d9-4d15-96f0-6e040a4f912d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jessica Waters
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, CRADC, CCTP, ADDC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80013
Embark on a soul-soothing odyssey with our immersive program, "Harmony Within." offering psychotherapy, holistic addiction counseling and restorative arts coaching. Specifically trained in multiple holistic and alternative health modalities, mental health (grief, palliative care, end of life, addiction and trauma) and indigenous folk medicine, I use the expressive arts as a tool for healing processes and self regulation. My targeted interventions also include: Guided Visualizations/Meditations, Hypnotherapy, Expressive Arts, Plant Medicines, Movement, Sound Therapy, HRV and Energywork.
Embark on a soul-soothing odyssey with our immersive program, "Harmony Within." offering psychotherapy, holistic addiction counseling and restorative arts coaching. Specifically trained in multiple holistic and alternative health modalities, mental health (grief, palliative care, end of life, addiction and trauma) and indigenous folk medicine, I use the expressive arts as a tool for healing processes and self regulation. My targeted interventions also include: Guided Visualizations/Meditations, Hypnotherapy, Expressive Arts, Plant Medicines, Movement, Sound Therapy, HRV and Energywork.
![Photo of Heath Philip Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe83d77c-5b06-43a7-a48f-7ba5bc963a2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great therapy results stem from a strong, trusting connection with an experienced therapist. I have been treating children, families, couples, and individual adults in my therapy practice for 25 years. I have developed a practice that focuses on a person's strengths, bringing awareness to life and family history, its influences, and the coping skills used then and now. If you want support finding answers in a confidential, constructive, and balanced approach, I am here for that.
Great therapy results stem from a strong, trusting connection with an experienced therapist. I have been treating children, families, couples, and individual adults in my therapy practice for 25 years. I have developed a practice that focuses on a person's strengths, bringing awareness to life and family history, its influences, and the coping skills used then and now. If you want support finding answers in a confidential, constructive, and balanced approach, I am here for that.
![Photo of Iris (Tun) Cartwright, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6149c09-bc05-4f2f-8bb4-e3da7777b73a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Iris (Tun) Cartwright
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80014 (Online Only)
Life is full of inevitable difficulties, and how you approach them matters. In sessions, I work to provide a supportive environment where you can feel safe to untangle your thoughts and feelings. As I work alongside you, I aim to use feedback, honesty, compassion, empathy, and humor to help you find healing and a better understanding of yourself. I apply my cultural background, education, and experiences with trauma-informed care to create my own unique philosophy in helping others; the main pillar of that philosophy being self-awareness.
Life is full of inevitable difficulties, and how you approach them matters. In sessions, I work to provide a supportive environment where you can feel safe to untangle your thoughts and feelings. As I work alongside you, I aim to use feedback, honesty, compassion, empathy, and humor to help you find healing and a better understanding of yourself. I apply my cultural background, education, and experiences with trauma-informed care to create my own unique philosophy in helping others; the main pillar of that philosophy being self-awareness.
![Photo of Jennifer Bugg Wright, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f082d1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
Let's focus on your strengths to create the life you want to be living! No matter what ails you: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma... even simpler things, such as relationships, work stress, or finding a more meaningful life... I can provide education, emotional skills, coping strategies, and a compassionate ear. As a CBT and ACT therapist, I use therapy and skill building, looking at the interplay between our beliefs and ideas, our experiences and environment, and our values and choices in life. I also address biopsychological concerns such as sleep, neuropsychological functioning, breathing, and fight or flight responses.
![Photo of Yolanda Mani Esatai, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c69385e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yolanda Mani Esatai
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80017 (Online Only)
I view psychotherapy as a process of exploration and affirmation of one's life path, including the experiences and wisdom gained along this journey. This is just the beginning point for the psychotherapeutic process of healing and identifying one's pathway to continue the journey of personal growth, transformation and achieving balance (mind, body & Spirit).
I see my role as a therapist as that of a witness and source of support and knowledge, joining with you to help facilitate the individual process of developing a deeper sense of self-awareness, achieving personal growth and transformation: to create the life you want.
I view psychotherapy as a process of exploration and affirmation of one's life path, including the experiences and wisdom gained along this journey. This is just the beginning point for the psychotherapeutic process of healing and identifying one's pathway to continue the journey of personal growth, transformation and achieving balance (mind, body & Spirit).
I see my role as a therapist as that of a witness and source of support and knowledge, joining with you to help facilitate the individual process of developing a deeper sense of self-awareness, achieving personal growth and transformation: to create the life you want.
![Photo of Kyungah Kim, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d21fcdb9-cd79-4cd5-b08b-48574a90748e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kyungah Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80015 (Online Only)
You struggle with the sense of not being good enough, the relentless anxiety and worries, low mood, feeling alone and lonely, and not belong. You suffer from the imposter syndrome, experience guilt when it wasn't your fault, and end up feeling resentment after constantly serving others' needs. You often make decisions based on fear and sometimes the voice of self-doubt blocks you from pursuing the life you want. You would like to feel happy and content in life, build self-confidence, stop worrying too much, enjoy relationships, and shake off the thought you should be doing more.
You struggle with the sense of not being good enough, the relentless anxiety and worries, low mood, feeling alone and lonely, and not belong. You suffer from the imposter syndrome, experience guilt when it wasn't your fault, and end up feeling resentment after constantly serving others' needs. You often make decisions based on fear and sometimes the voice of self-doubt blocks you from pursuing the life you want. You would like to feel happy and content in life, build self-confidence, stop worrying too much, enjoy relationships, and shake off the thought you should be doing more.
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Carol A Williams
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![Photo of Colin Foster, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/172f10c2-facb-4ba9-89a1-b1f887043ea7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
I primarily work with individuals struggling with addiction, intrusive thoughts, unwanted sexual behavior, and challenges with developing and maintaining intimacy. I also have expertise in dealing with childhood trauma, particularly male childhood sexual abuse. My work with clients centers around clarifying their connection with their intuition. In doing so, I focus on creating a compassionate and non-judgmental environment, where one can freely express their thoughts and feelings and begin to truly understand their internal experience.
![Photo of Andrew Bryson, LPCC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/619388ee-c440-486b-ac76-ca910ccf25e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Bryson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80012 (Online Only)
Trauma is inevitable, but it does not have to overshadow our entire lives. I work with folks who have experienced trauma of all kinds and are interested in leaving behind the habits, patterns, and feelings that no longer serve them. Whether your trauma was acute, such as accident or loss, or longstanding, such as abuse from parents or partners, my work is to help folks rediscover their inherent ability to feel safe, connected, and capable. My work is nestled in understanding of how our social, political, and economic conditions lead to passing on trauma and distress.
Trauma is inevitable, but it does not have to overshadow our entire lives. I work with folks who have experienced trauma of all kinds and are interested in leaving behind the habits, patterns, and feelings that no longer serve them. Whether your trauma was acute, such as accident or loss, or longstanding, such as abuse from parents or partners, my work is to help folks rediscover their inherent ability to feel safe, connected, and capable. My work is nestled in understanding of how our social, political, and economic conditions lead to passing on trauma and distress.
![Photo of Julia Schafer, MSW, SWC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf3fa7b-d865-443b-8d82-e67271eb0ea5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you tired of feeling like nobody truly understands what you’ve been through? Have you had past experiences with therapists who just don't seem to "get" you? It’s time for a fresh start. The weight of unresolved trauma can be suffocating, trapping you in a cycle of endless struggle. The anxiety that skyrockets even when you go to the grocery store, the lingering cloud of shame when you are reminded of your past, and the persistent doubt if you're worthy of love – these narratives don't define you!
Are you tired of feeling like nobody truly understands what you’ve been through? Have you had past experiences with therapists who just don't seem to "get" you? It’s time for a fresh start. The weight of unresolved trauma can be suffocating, trapping you in a cycle of endless struggle. The anxiety that skyrockets even when you go to the grocery store, the lingering cloud of shame when you are reminded of your past, and the persistent doubt if you're worthy of love – these narratives don't define you!
![Photo of Dana Cohen, MA, LPCC, RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/385d0844-fd2a-45a3-ab71-1f8438397281/1/320x400.png)
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
I'm a specialized therapist who works primarily with neurodivergence, specifically ADHD, OCD, autism & borderline spectrums, and chronic depression, anxiety, & bipolar disorders. I also have expertise in complex trauma issues, often stemming from narcissistic family systems or relationship abuse. Many of my clients possess an excellent or above-average capacity for self-reflection and introspection. However, they feel their heightened self-awareness can sometimes backfire, magnifying feelings of powerlessness and frustration when they find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns and unable to make desired changes in their behaviors.
![Photo of Lorenne Gavish, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a71af5e7-f02e-4e6a-bc96-e8ef6c8ae55b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I help adult individuals and couples reconnect with themselves and one another. We are built to be in connection, community and to constantly evolve. This means we must re-meet ourselves and our loved-ones many times throughout life, but growth and change is often a painful and scary journey to navigate, especially in a world where few of us are given the tools to do so. In my practice we work to create a space where you and your loved ones can feel safe enough to be vulnerable, build trust, and increase intimacy, because we all deserve the chance to heal, grow, and create nourishing connections with ourselves and one another.
I help adult individuals and couples reconnect with themselves and one another. We are built to be in connection, community and to constantly evolve. This means we must re-meet ourselves and our loved-ones many times throughout life, but growth and change is often a painful and scary journey to navigate, especially in a world where few of us are given the tools to do so. In my practice we work to create a space where you and your loved ones can feel safe enough to be vulnerable, build trust, and increase intimacy, because we all deserve the chance to heal, grow, and create nourishing connections with ourselves and one another.
![Photo of Joel Ricklefs, LPCC, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c37ac1dd-2c07-429d-a1f7-aac3e9d55b78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Joel Ricklefs
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Aurora, CO 80013
Accepting new clients: I focus primarily in three different areas; Helping people recover from Addiction/Alcoholism, Couples Counseling and Psychedelic Integration. Addiction: Recovery from addiction is not straight forward. Different people need different solutions. I believe in all pathways to recovery, and I have lived experience. I can offer you a trusting, healing, judgment free space where you can be completely honest. Together we can figure out how you can best heal from this devastating affliction.
Accepting new clients: I focus primarily in three different areas; Helping people recover from Addiction/Alcoholism, Couples Counseling and Psychedelic Integration. Addiction: Recovery from addiction is not straight forward. Different people need different solutions. I believe in all pathways to recovery, and I have lived experience. I can offer you a trusting, healing, judgment free space where you can be completely honest. Together we can figure out how you can best heal from this devastating affliction.
![Photo of Dr. Sebastian Harvey, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c1acfb8-6dfa-45df-82d0-0c69d54ef509/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sebastian Harvey, PsyD, specializes in working with athletes and members the sports community and is particularly interested in the exploration of athlete identity and the destigmatization of mental health within sports culture. Sebastian received his Doctor of Psychology in 2023 and his Master’s in Sports Coaching in 2018 from the University of Denver. Sebastian approaches therapy from an integrative, relational perspective to provide individualized psychotherapy treatment and enjoys working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, and major life changes such as loss, illness or injury.
Sebastian Harvey, PsyD, specializes in working with athletes and members the sports community and is particularly interested in the exploration of athlete identity and the destigmatization of mental health within sports culture. Sebastian received his Doctor of Psychology in 2023 and his Master’s in Sports Coaching in 2018 from the University of Denver. Sebastian approaches therapy from an integrative, relational perspective to provide individualized psychotherapy treatment and enjoys working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relational issues, and major life changes such as loss, illness or injury.
![Photo of Diana Calvo, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28586b66-e586-4983-a7ab-256bc805c06b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults (25 years and older) who are struggling to find purpose, meaning, and fulfillment in everyday life. I see clients who often experience an unexplainable emptiness inside or wonder why it is difficult to feel a sense of connection to the people in their lives. Difficulty accessing joy, loneliness, moments of hopelessness, depression, anxiety, and trauma can be a part of the story. Sometimes there is emotional pain associated with past and current relationships with family, and sometimes also with friends, colleagues, and romantic partners.
I work with adults (25 years and older) who are struggling to find purpose, meaning, and fulfillment in everyday life. I see clients who often experience an unexplainable emptiness inside or wonder why it is difficult to feel a sense of connection to the people in their lives. Difficulty accessing joy, loneliness, moments of hopelessness, depression, anxiety, and trauma can be a part of the story. Sometimes there is emotional pain associated with past and current relationships with family, and sometimes also with friends, colleagues, and romantic partners.
![Photo of Brianna Zambrana, MA, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8add9cd-62f7-482b-8b8f-ec83a682618f/2/320x400.png)
Brianna Zambrana
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Aurora, CO 80016 (Online Only)
Being human is hard! Luckily, we don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi, my name is Brianna and I am also a human being navigating a complex existence here on Earth. Taking a deeper look into ourselves and our life experiences can be scary. My approach to therapy involves slowing down to fully be with your experiences. By taking the time to be with ourselves and what we have gone through, we can access the space needed for the positive changes we desire. I have both therapeutic and lived experience navigating relationship challenges, grief, depression, anxiety, spiritual/ existential exploration, and multicultural identity work.
Being human is hard! Luckily, we don’t have to navigate it alone. Hi, my name is Brianna and I am also a human being navigating a complex existence here on Earth. Taking a deeper look into ourselves and our life experiences can be scary. My approach to therapy involves slowing down to fully be with your experiences. By taking the time to be with ourselves and what we have gone through, we can access the space needed for the positive changes we desire. I have both therapeutic and lived experience navigating relationship challenges, grief, depression, anxiety, spiritual/ existential exploration, and multicultural identity work.
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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.