Buddhist Therapists in Wallburg, NC
There are no results for therapists in Wallburg
Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Bernard J Newton Jr. - Bernard J Newton, Jr. - Sex Therapist, MSMFT, LCMHC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d12839b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bernard J Newton, Jr. - Sex Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LCMHC, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
If you’re here, you’re likely finding that something has been getting in the way of experiencing the sexual pleasure and/or relationship connection you want. Maybe it’s needing to integrate a new understanding of your sexual or gender orientation. Perhaps you’re not sure exactly what brings you pleasure or how to ask for what you want. Shame or past trauma has been preventing you from finding freedom. All of these dynamics can leave you feeling lonely and disconnected from yourself and your partner.
If you’re here, you’re likely finding that something has been getting in the way of experiencing the sexual pleasure and/or relationship connection you want. Maybe it’s needing to integrate a new understanding of your sexual or gender orientation. Perhaps you’re not sure exactly what brings you pleasure or how to ask for what you want. Shame or past trauma has been preventing you from finding freedom. All of these dynamics can leave you feeling lonely and disconnected from yourself and your partner.
![Photo of Lisa A. Rainwater, LCMHC, MA, PhD, CCTP, CT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/282bdf83-31bb-4796-a91f-784037d7f73f/1/320x400.png)
Lisa A. Rainwater
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA, PhD, CCTP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Hello and welcome. You may be an individual or a couple seeking to understand how past attachments, fulfillments, or traumas inform your present with the hope of repairing and improving your relationship to Self and others. Or, you may feel lost and want to explore how to live life with intention, meaning, and authenticity. I help clients explore their attachment styles, grief, losses, and traumas with curiosity, mindfulness, and loving-kindness. It is my privilege to walk alongside clients in NC, CO, and WI, witnessing them blossom within this confidential, safe space of existential reflection, forgiveness, acceptance, and rebirth.
Hello and welcome. You may be an individual or a couple seeking to understand how past attachments, fulfillments, or traumas inform your present with the hope of repairing and improving your relationship to Self and others. Or, you may feel lost and want to explore how to live life with intention, meaning, and authenticity. I help clients explore their attachment styles, grief, losses, and traumas with curiosity, mindfulness, and loving-kindness. It is my privilege to walk alongside clients in NC, CO, and WI, witnessing them blossom within this confidential, safe space of existential reflection, forgiveness, acceptance, and rebirth.
![Photo of Casey M Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/163e0fd9-fd17-4d7b-8901-5d0d4c22d47c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to reclaim your story and rediscover your zest for life? This is therapy for those who want to silence the voices that have held them back, embrace their unique journey, and become fierce advocates for themselves and the causes they believe in. Welcome to Therapy for Your Humanity. If you're tired of feeling unheard, unfulfilled, or disconnected from your purpose, therapy can help you reclaim your power, communicate confidently, set boundaries, and rediscover your joy. This journey is especially transformative if you're an advocate for social justice.
Are you ready to reclaim your story and rediscover your zest for life? This is therapy for those who want to silence the voices that have held them back, embrace their unique journey, and become fierce advocates for themselves and the causes they believe in. Welcome to Therapy for Your Humanity. If you're tired of feeling unheard, unfulfilled, or disconnected from your purpose, therapy can help you reclaim your power, communicate confidently, set boundaries, and rediscover your joy. This journey is especially transformative if you're an advocate for social justice.
![Photo of Kathleen J. McFadden, MS, MTS, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526bdca7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen J. McFadden
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MTS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Do you struggle with your relationships? Do you have trouble asking for what you want in relationships and at work? Is it difficult for you to set boundaries and feel okay about it? Are you living the life you desire? If so, you are struggling with relationship issues and possibly relationship trauma symptoms. Developmental trauma (CPTSD) can set deeply entrenched patterns of behavior and beliefs about yourself that are hard to shake. I practice using evidenced-based effective therapies, such as NARM, EMDR 2.0, Psychodrama and CBT.
Do you struggle with your relationships? Do you have trouble asking for what you want in relationships and at work? Is it difficult for you to set boundaries and feel okay about it? Are you living the life you desire? If so, you are struggling with relationship issues and possibly relationship trauma symptoms. Developmental trauma (CPTSD) can set deeply entrenched patterns of behavior and beliefs about yourself that are hard to shake. I practice using evidenced-based effective therapies, such as NARM, EMDR 2.0, Psychodrama and CBT.
![Photo of Audrey Williams, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19a5ecba-9fcb-4768-be8c-224f63ddde0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Audrey Williams
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27157
No matter where you are on your journey—starting, healing, growing—I’m here to support you. I work with adults of all ages and especially love working with helping professionals. I help those who are struggling with: addiction, trauma, issues in relationships, feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, boundaries, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can work towards a life where you feel more connected, empowered, and fulfilled.
No matter where you are on your journey—starting, healing, growing—I’m here to support you. I work with adults of all ages and especially love working with helping professionals. I help those who are struggling with: addiction, trauma, issues in relationships, feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, people-pleasing, boundaries, anxiety, depression, and major life transitions. You don’t have to face it alone. Together, we can work towards a life where you feel more connected, empowered, and fulfilled.
![Photo of Melissa D. Tuttle - Guilford Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, DBTC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1adc63f1-f13d-446f-a646-59267be359cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Guilford Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DBTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27262
Waitlist for new clients
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
NOTE: I am not current accepting new clients, but other Guilford Counseling therapists have openings! If past traumas are interfering with your life, if you struggle with managing your emotions, or if you have patterns of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, I'd love to meet with you. People I work with have usually tried therapy before, but found that their progress stalled out or bogged down. If that sounds familiar, reach out and give it another try.
![Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6642016-8fed-4d8a-a4df-431b5ef00fc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
![Photo of Alexa Henson, MS, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee668417-36c3-49cb-b00f-a03fc38a0d1e/6/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Henson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Not accepting new clients
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
As a therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs, and affirm LGBTQIA+. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
![Photo of Brittany Bodwell, MA, LCMHC, QS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e00acdce-9c90-49b0-8cbf-32789719e3a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Bodwell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Not accepting new clients
Have you found yourself experiencing big, overwhelming emotions one minute, then numb and shut down the next? Do you find yourself feeling so ashamed of what's going on in your head that it's hard to get out of bed and face the day? Are you questioning, "Why can't I just get it together?" You want to understand why you feel the way you do and why you keep ending up in the same unsatisfying relationships so you can start to build the life you want. I can help. I specialize in working with complex, relationship/attachment-based trauma and PTSD.
Have you found yourself experiencing big, overwhelming emotions one minute, then numb and shut down the next? Do you find yourself feeling so ashamed of what's going on in your head that it's hard to get out of bed and face the day? Are you questioning, "Why can't I just get it together?" You want to understand why you feel the way you do and why you keep ending up in the same unsatisfying relationships so you can start to build the life you want. I can help. I specialize in working with complex, relationship/attachment-based trauma and PTSD.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Nancy Le, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c064e26-353e-4bb0-a283-d5edb63a3e9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. I am glad you are here. As a person who was raised by POW survivors and refugees, I know intimately how trauma can be woven into the fabric of one’s history. I know first hand the hardship of coming face to face with the questions of “how do we live on in the wake of loss and/or betrayal?” and more importantly, “how can we begin to laugh again?”. The fact that you have found yourself here on this page tells me that you have already taken that first step beyond survival and towards deeper living.
Welcome. I am glad you are here. As a person who was raised by POW survivors and refugees, I know intimately how trauma can be woven into the fabric of one’s history. I know first hand the hardship of coming face to face with the questions of “how do we live on in the wake of loss and/or betrayal?” and more importantly, “how can we begin to laugh again?”. The fact that you have found yourself here on this page tells me that you have already taken that first step beyond survival and towards deeper living.
![Photo of Ada Savage, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80bff684-684a-4add-a9bc-55a1bf66fa87/1/320x400.jpeg)
Have you or your child experienced something difficult or painful that has changed how you view yourself or those around you? Or do the day-to-day pressures feel too much to bear? Is it difficult to feel joy or peace as you move through your day? Do you feel shame because you think you should be able to cope better? We all experience dark days or months or even years. Imagine feeling joy, peace, and a sense of purpose again. It can be scary, but people do find their inner strength and resilience. You can create a life of purpose.
Have you or your child experienced something difficult or painful that has changed how you view yourself or those around you? Or do the day-to-day pressures feel too much to bear? Is it difficult to feel joy or peace as you move through your day? Do you feel shame because you think you should be able to cope better? We all experience dark days or months or even years. Imagine feeling joy, peace, and a sense of purpose again. It can be scary, but people do find their inner strength and resilience. You can create a life of purpose.
![Photo of Patrick B McDade, LCMHCA, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/031a9ce8-f86f-448b-a534-af9fa65ec37c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Patrick B McDade
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and former School Counselor. I love working with former teachers or folks still in the education system, athletes, and folks that want to talk through spiritual issues as well. My approach blends evidence-based techniques like IFS, ACT and CBT with mindfulness practices to help you build resilience, manage stress, and find clarity. Together, we'll explore what works best for you to foster positive change and personal growth.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) and former School Counselor. I love working with former teachers or folks still in the education system, athletes, and folks that want to talk through spiritual issues as well. My approach blends evidence-based techniques like IFS, ACT and CBT with mindfulness practices to help you build resilience, manage stress, and find clarity. Together, we'll explore what works best for you to foster positive change and personal growth.
![Photo of Dr. Liz E. Slonena, PsyD, HSP, MSCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d1acdb7-76f1-4d1d-96e3-cce7bef4dfc4/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Liz E. Slonena
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP, MSCP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516 (Online Only)
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
Exhausted by your loud inner critic? Overwhelmed by your neverending to-do list? Despite looking like you have your sh!t together, internally you may feel like a scattered fraud cosplaying as a human. Trying to be the perfect friend, perfect professional, or perfect partner all at once is exhausting. Maybe there's a deeper wound that hasn't healed yet. Perhaps you dream of feeling fulfilled, calm, & confident. To say "no" and actually mean it. To stop playing small & launch that creative idea. If you want to stress less & live authentically without fear or guilt, I’d love to help you step into your power.
![Photo of Pamela Tourangeau, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fdb1121f-c6fb-45e4-bf5d-bf2cd09977be/1/320x400.png)
Pamela Tourangeau
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
Hello, my name is Pamela Tourangeau and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have been practicing for the last thirty years, and my primary area of focus is working with people who have symptoms of anxiety, depression, and Post Trauma disorders. Over my career, I have been fortunate to have acquired many skills and experiences which I refer to as my "toolbox". I believe that no single theory or approach has the "answers" to effectively treat and help you with the problems that you hope to address in counseling.
Hello, my name is Pamela Tourangeau and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have been practicing for the last thirty years, and my primary area of focus is working with people who have symptoms of anxiety, depression, and Post Trauma disorders. Over my career, I have been fortunate to have acquired many skills and experiences which I refer to as my "toolbox". I believe that no single theory or approach has the "answers" to effectively treat and help you with the problems that you hope to address in counseling.
![Photo of Mamata Gurung, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4572e588-7416-4a35-9ec1-44b371a935aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mamata Gurung
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210 (Online Only)
I know that making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, but choosing to do so shows incredible strength and a desire to invest in you. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. With 5 years of experience in mental health, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is CBT, ACT, mindfulness, somatic work and trauma-informed care. I believe that every individual’s journey is unique, and I tailor my methods to fit your specific needs and goals.
I know that making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult, but choosing to do so shows incredible strength and a desire to invest in you. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. With 5 years of experience in mental health, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is CBT, ACT, mindfulness, somatic work and trauma-informed care. I believe that every individual’s journey is unique, and I tailor my methods to fit your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Chantal Hayes - Winston Salem Couples & Family Counseling, LCMHC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b443e6-8053-46d5-a520-1937f17205cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Winston Salem Couples & Family Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Relationships are hard work, but you're in the right place. Whether you've been married for years or just dating and considering making a commitment, we can help. Couples who come to see us often have a strong desire to be closer to their partner but have found themselves locked in a pattern of stressful interaction, which leads to the problems they are hoping to address in counseling. Together we navigate the process of understanding the cycles couples get stuck in and identify what needs to change in order to build a safe, intimate, and loving connection.
Relationships are hard work, but you're in the right place. Whether you've been married for years or just dating and considering making a commitment, we can help. Couples who come to see us often have a strong desire to be closer to their partner but have found themselves locked in a pattern of stressful interaction, which leads to the problems they are hoping to address in counseling. Together we navigate the process of understanding the cycles couples get stuck in and identify what needs to change in order to build a safe, intimate, and loving connection.
![Photo of Jihan Foehner Amer - Jihan Amer Holistic Counseling & Coaching, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/411e8783-9077-4a18-b2f2-ac146dad8230/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jihan Amer Holistic Counseling & Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27455 (Online Only)
I integrate all my training in helping clients heal and transform their lives in the direction which honors living one's full potential/purpose. I work with individuals and offer women's expressive arts groups. The areas I have worked with include: mild - moderate anxiety, mild - moderate depression, stress reduction, communication skills, codependency, low self- esteem, relational issues, grief, social skill building, marital/divorce/relationship issues, women's issues, racial/ethnic/cultural concerns, meaning of life, life transitions, life purpose, identity questions, BIPOC issues, spiritual issues, and eco-related issues.
I integrate all my training in helping clients heal and transform their lives in the direction which honors living one's full potential/purpose. I work with individuals and offer women's expressive arts groups. The areas I have worked with include: mild - moderate anxiety, mild - moderate depression, stress reduction, communication skills, codependency, low self- esteem, relational issues, grief, social skill building, marital/divorce/relationship issues, women's issues, racial/ethnic/cultural concerns, meaning of life, life transitions, life purpose, identity questions, BIPOC issues, spiritual issues, and eco-related issues.
![Photo of Michael Burroughs - Michael Burroughs, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6dcfae0-091e-41a8-8e5f-b511c3250d3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Burroughs, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701 (Online Only)
I’ve found that the most effective counseling takes a team approach: I am knowledgeable about mental health treatment, but you are the expert on you. We’ll explore your concern together to find a solution you are comfortable with.
I’ve found that the most effective counseling takes a team approach: I am knowledgeable about mental health treatment, but you are the expert on you. We’ll explore your concern together to find a solution you are comfortable with.
![Photo of Alexandra (Alexa) Barth, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091095ff-0d4a-42cb-954d-b921e2018bc4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra (Alexa) Barth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are like many of my clients, you’ve been through a lot; you've fought to get to this point in life, are driven, and consider yourself a hard-earned-version of personal success in continuous process. Having already done a lot of personal work on yourself, you’ve begun to realize there are some things that you thought you dealt with and put to bed, but for some reason they have started popping up again. You may have an established meditation or self care practice and are noticing some new emotional static. Your established skills don’t seem to be doing the trick and you need help navigating how to move forward.
If you are like many of my clients, you’ve been through a lot; you've fought to get to this point in life, are driven, and consider yourself a hard-earned-version of personal success in continuous process. Having already done a lot of personal work on yourself, you’ve begun to realize there are some things that you thought you dealt with and put to bed, but for some reason they have started popping up again. You may have an established meditation or self care practice and are noticing some new emotional static. Your established skills don’t seem to be doing the trick and you need help navigating how to move forward.
![Photo of Brian Strahine, LCMHCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2bd3ca0-a88b-4b9b-ac8c-ef9eb04c0dc2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Strahine
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
I am passionate about working with men who have a desire to grow into the next greatest version of themselves. My life's purpose is to serve men who choose to walk the path of embodied presence. The walk on this path is not always easy. It can include suffering and heartache. These struggles have always been a part of the human experience. And, incredible transformation can occur when a man chooses to face these challenges in order to realize his full potential. I specialize in communication and relationship-building skills and bring more than 20 years of experience working with teens and adults in these areas.
I am passionate about working with men who have a desire to grow into the next greatest version of themselves. My life's purpose is to serve men who choose to walk the path of embodied presence. The walk on this path is not always easy. It can include suffering and heartache. These struggles have always been a part of the human experience. And, incredible transformation can occur when a man chooses to face these challenges in order to realize his full potential. I specialize in communication and relationship-building skills and bring more than 20 years of experience working with teens and adults in these areas.
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.