Therapists in Suffolk County, NY
![Photo of Cynthia Giocomarra - Gotham Wellness ONLINE, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/475f7689-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gotham Wellness ONLINE
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
East Hampton, NY 11937 (Online Only)
Anxiety can be overwhelming, ruining important events. If you suffer from anxiety, panic attacks, obsessions, compulsions, phobias - there IS help. You can learn ways to stress less and enjoy more. Gotham Wellness specializes in Solutions. Focusing on Anxiety/Stress Management, Adult ADHD, Navigating Difficult Relationships, & Couples Counseling. The ideal client is one willing to get to know themselves in a fresh way. Our clinicians are Pierre Desir, MA, LMFT, and Cynthia Giocomarra, PsyD., LMFT.
Anxiety can be overwhelming, ruining important events. If you suffer from anxiety, panic attacks, obsessions, compulsions, phobias - there IS help. You can learn ways to stress less and enjoy more. Gotham Wellness specializes in Solutions. Focusing on Anxiety/Stress Management, Adult ADHD, Navigating Difficult Relationships, & Couples Counseling. The ideal client is one willing to get to know themselves in a fresh way. Our clinicians are Pierre Desir, MA, LMFT, and Cynthia Giocomarra, PsyD., LMFT.
![Photo of Emily Martin, LMHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dc88c00-6a7b-45ef-8a6a-4557256bf345/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Martin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgehampton, NY 11932
I am passionate about helping adults navigate their complex inner worlds. I enjoy working with those who project confidence and self-assurance in various areas of life yet privately battle anxiety, depression, or grief. I especially enjoy working with women to better understand how their mental health and reproductive health journeys are intertwined. If you are struggling with peripartum depression and anxiety, PMDD, infertility, perinatal loss (including abortion and miscarriage) I may be a good fit for you.
I am passionate about helping adults navigate their complex inner worlds. I enjoy working with those who project confidence and self-assurance in various areas of life yet privately battle anxiety, depression, or grief. I especially enjoy working with women to better understand how their mental health and reproductive health journeys are intertwined. If you are struggling with peripartum depression and anxiety, PMDD, infertility, perinatal loss (including abortion and miscarriage) I may be a good fit for you.
![Photo of Jennifer Atlas, MA, MFA, LCAT, CLAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e3f0f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Atlas
Art Therapist, MA, MFA, LCAT, CLAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Slowing down is hard when our lives are busy, and we feel out of balance—it can feel like there is very little time to work on ourselves. Therapy is about creating space for positive change. When we do manage to slow down and make room for ourselves, we can grow and create lasting adjustments that make our lives more balanced. Entering therapy provides that space and opportunity. I work collaboratively with my clients, providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore issues, gain perspective, develop new and creative coping skills, and strengthen one’s relationship with themselves and with others.
Slowing down is hard when our lives are busy, and we feel out of balance—it can feel like there is very little time to work on ourselves. Therapy is about creating space for positive change. When we do manage to slow down and make room for ourselves, we can grow and create lasting adjustments that make our lives more balanced. Entering therapy provides that space and opportunity. I work collaboratively with my clients, providing a safe and non-judgmental space to explore issues, gain perspective, develop new and creative coping skills, and strengthen one’s relationship with themselves and with others.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Alice Pencavel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4097edf8-06f8-4999-80e8-c43f64019c85/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am grounded in the belief that we have the intrinsic capacity to heal. I am committed to supporting the development of compassion, wakefulness, and ease, in response to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and unresolved trauma. As a trained yoga teacher and practicing Zen Buddhist, I view physical/spiritual health, mindfulness practice, and engagement with philosophical inquiry to be the pillars for emotional well-being. With a robust background as a playwright, I draw on my writing practice and the innate creativity of my clients as guides along the healing journey.
I am grounded in the belief that we have the intrinsic capacity to heal. I am committed to supporting the development of compassion, wakefulness, and ease, in response to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and unresolved trauma. As a trained yoga teacher and practicing Zen Buddhist, I view physical/spiritual health, mindfulness practice, and engagement with philosophical inquiry to be the pillars for emotional well-being. With a robust background as a playwright, I draw on my writing practice and the innate creativity of my clients as guides along the healing journey.
![Photo of Ekaterina Baksheeva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02a00924-cd85-4093-b26b-3845c5620e6d/5/320x400.png)
Ekaterina Baksheeva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space for adults seeking to navigate life's challenges. Drawing from Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness techniques, I help individuals cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and inner peace. My approach combines evidence-based therapies with mindfulness practices to address depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and collaborative environment. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and welcome all spiritual and cultural perspectives.
Welcome to my practice! I offer a compassionate and non-judgmental space for adults seeking to navigate life's challenges. Drawing from Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness techniques, I help individuals cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and inner peace. My approach combines evidence-based therapies with mindfulness practices to address depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, empathetic, and collaborative environment. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds and welcome all spiritual and cultural perspectives.
![Photo of Deborah Cher, MA, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/172b5ecb-010a-4b6c-9b5b-8601bd9e37de/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis can be instrumental in enhancing your self esteem, quieting depressive thoughts, unlocking your creativity, improving your relationships and helping you lead a happier, more fulfilling life. I lean toward a self-psychological approach that centers on mutuality, self inquiry and empathic encounter. I work with clients from all walks of life, including academics, artists, writers, executives, couples, people going through important life transitions, and people of different faiths, be it buddhist, christian or secular-spiritual. I also work with children. One of my specialties is giftedness, at any age.
Psychotherapy and psychoanalysis can be instrumental in enhancing your self esteem, quieting depressive thoughts, unlocking your creativity, improving your relationships and helping you lead a happier, more fulfilling life. I lean toward a self-psychological approach that centers on mutuality, self inquiry and empathic encounter. I work with clients from all walks of life, including academics, artists, writers, executives, couples, people going through important life transitions, and people of different faiths, be it buddhist, christian or secular-spiritual. I also work with children. One of my specialties is giftedness, at any age.
![Photo of Ali Power, LCSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc58f844-175a-4ace-96ff-16bfb626a85f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Using a psychodynamic framework and relational lens, my work is informed by both psychoanalytic theories and Buddhist psychology.
Often in therapy we work to bring what's unconscious into consciousness, which can create more agency, freedom, and choice. As both a psychotherapist and writer, I believe in the power of finding connections between that which is seemingly disconnected in order to uncover a deeper understanding of oneself and the way one relates to others and the world.
Using a psychodynamic framework and relational lens, my work is informed by both psychoanalytic theories and Buddhist psychology.
Often in therapy we work to bring what's unconscious into consciousness, which can create more agency, freedom, and choice. As both a psychotherapist and writer, I believe in the power of finding connections between that which is seemingly disconnected in order to uncover a deeper understanding of oneself and the way one relates to others and the world.
![Photo of Cyndi Stusvick, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da6375e-08d5-416a-a582-181825fbcbf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
As we walk through life, our experiences can often leave us feeling disconnected or even shattered; however, life also offers opportunities to heal in the deepest sense of the word. In our work together, it is my intention to walk alongside you as you find your way to your highest, most centered self. In my work, I have found that everyone collects trauma along the way and that within the context of a therapeutic relationship, meaning can be created and transformation occurs.
As we walk through life, our experiences can often leave us feeling disconnected or even shattered; however, life also offers opportunities to heal in the deepest sense of the word. In our work together, it is my intention to walk alongside you as you find your way to your highest, most centered self. In my work, I have found that everyone collects trauma along the way and that within the context of a therapeutic relationship, meaning can be created and transformation occurs.
![Photo of Sydney Rose, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c9c7c5-e01c-4c31-b0b5-2832ddf0161f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Grief can impact every aspect of life: relationships, behaviors, thoughts and emotions. If you've experienced something that broke your spirit, you can't keep going the way you were before. But major losses and transitions in life can also open up possibilities for big transformations. They can point you towards more meaning, connection and vitality than you've experienced before. If you're stuck in shame, loneliness, fear or doubt that seems immovable, a trauma focused approach to therapy might just be what you need help make a shift.
Grief can impact every aspect of life: relationships, behaviors, thoughts and emotions. If you've experienced something that broke your spirit, you can't keep going the way you were before. But major losses and transitions in life can also open up possibilities for big transformations. They can point you towards more meaning, connection and vitality than you've experienced before. If you're stuck in shame, loneliness, fear or doubt that seems immovable, a trauma focused approach to therapy might just be what you need help make a shift.
![Photo of Elissaveta Iordanova - Inspired Creative Arts Therapy, LCAT, BC-DMT, MS, MFA, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5429bc62-46e3-46e8-9b42-8722f8a6f9d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
We're born to be happy! If you are willing to creatively and empathically embrace your life experiences, actively re-center your physical, mental, and emotional self - we are on board together! I will collaboratively engage you in a balanced and inspiring body-mind interventions to re-install your hope and self-esteem. In the process of creating a meaningful , client-centered therapy, relationship to self and others, stress, fear, anxiety, life transitions challenges, loss/grief, academic or creative/artist's difficulties, among many others will be addressed, so you can and lead a thriving life. I invite you to make some changes!
We're born to be happy! If you are willing to creatively and empathically embrace your life experiences, actively re-center your physical, mental, and emotional self - we are on board together! I will collaboratively engage you in a balanced and inspiring body-mind interventions to re-install your hope and self-esteem. In the process of creating a meaningful , client-centered therapy, relationship to self and others, stress, fear, anxiety, life transitions challenges, loss/grief, academic or creative/artist's difficulties, among many others will be addressed, so you can and lead a thriving life. I invite you to make some changes!
![Photo of Isabella Scapini-Burrell, LCSW(R), LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aad1a67c-f717-4a4d-9cf7-7dd8dcc5157c/4/320x400.jpeg)
Isabella Scapini-Burrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW(R), LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
The first step you take, that moment when you pause to reflect on, “how am I doing? Why am I feeling this way?” is so very important. Life comes in the way of dreams and of loving relationships. And reflecting on where you are in this whole process often gets neglected. When things go well, one can feel that one’s choices are the right ones, but when conflicts arise, when anxiety mounts, and depression sets in, then you know something is amiss. When we first meet I will ask you questions about your concerns, your worries; together we will think about what’s getting neglected, prioritized, what you value, what you wish for yourself.
The first step you take, that moment when you pause to reflect on, “how am I doing? Why am I feeling this way?” is so very important. Life comes in the way of dreams and of loving relationships. And reflecting on where you are in this whole process often gets neglected. When things go well, one can feel that one’s choices are the right ones, but when conflicts arise, when anxiety mounts, and depression sets in, then you know something is amiss. When we first meet I will ask you questions about your concerns, your worries; together we will think about what’s getting neglected, prioritized, what you value, what you wish for yourself.
![Photo of Phyllis Taliaferro, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c47f548f-854f-447a-b3ad-8341d012bb72/5/320x400.jpeg)
Phyllis Taliaferro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Floral Park, NY 11001 (Online Only)
Sometimes life throws curves that seem to be insurmountable. Talking with a therapist can help you pay attention to and resolve the conflict that has gotten in the way of you having a more fulfilling life. Problems at work or school, inability to get a good night's rest, overeating are among the issues that you can't see as having you stuck. Depression or anxiety are real issues that must be worked through to get you back on track. Separation and loss are areas that can cause trauma. Trauma can be leaving home to go to college, the loss of a relationship, grief of loosing someone to death. Talking can get you through.
Sometimes life throws curves that seem to be insurmountable. Talking with a therapist can help you pay attention to and resolve the conflict that has gotten in the way of you having a more fulfilling life. Problems at work or school, inability to get a good night's rest, overeating are among the issues that you can't see as having you stuck. Depression or anxiety are real issues that must be worked through to get you back on track. Separation and loss are areas that can cause trauma. Trauma can be leaving home to go to college, the loss of a relationship, grief of loosing someone to death. Talking can get you through.
![Photo of Amy Lowery Allison, PhD, MS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d08dae37-778f-4f9a-94ab-1716e8d8277d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Lowery Allison
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065 (Online Only)
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a clinical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns (high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
You are more than a body. So when your body is struggling, it makes sense that you would also struggle mentally, emotionally, socially or even spiritually. I can help you through this. I am a clinical psychologist with leading expertise in providing psychotherapy to individuals dealing with health concerns (high stress/tension, coping with illness, disease or disability, fear of progression/recurrence, reducing physical symptoms, body image/changes, impact on relationships, communicating with loved ones, coping with depression, anxiety, or isolation, spiritual distress, enriching meaning, or even support facing end of life).
![Photo of Silvia Christina Juarez, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47479c4d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Bilingual Psychotherapist (English-Spanish) graduated as a Clinical Psychologist I obtained my License as a Mental Health Counselor in New York where I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. I have wide experience working with the Hispanic population. I help clients with anxiety, depression, low self esteem and family issues. I am truly dedicated to providing and empathetic and non judgmental environment where your concerns are heard.
I am a Bilingual Psychotherapist (English-Spanish) graduated as a Clinical Psychologist I obtained my License as a Mental Health Counselor in New York where I have been practicing as a psychotherapist for over 20 years. I have wide experience working with the Hispanic population. I help clients with anxiety, depression, low self esteem and family issues. I am truly dedicated to providing and empathetic and non judgmental environment where your concerns are heard.
![Photo of Mj Merkley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffd672f1-abd5-40a7-a9d1-88981fb0f1ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
The world right now can feel like a chaotic mess- more than anyone is able to handle alone. I'm here to help. With trust, honesty, and humor, we can manage anxiety, clarify your needs and begin to shape your new psychological reality. Through a collaborative person-centered approach, I treat adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. Together we build awareness, process feelings, and make meaning by exploring the changes you seek. As an EMDR therapist, I can you help process your upsetting memories, thoughts, and feelings related to trauma. My approach is efficient, well researched and direct.
The world right now can feel like a chaotic mess- more than anyone is able to handle alone. I'm here to help. With trust, honesty, and humor, we can manage anxiety, clarify your needs and begin to shape your new psychological reality. Through a collaborative person-centered approach, I treat adult individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships. Together we build awareness, process feelings, and make meaning by exploring the changes you seek. As an EMDR therapist, I can you help process your upsetting memories, thoughts, and feelings related to trauma. My approach is efficient, well researched and direct.
![Photo of Yoon Im Kane, LCSW, CGP, CIFSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b0f17d-12fc-4afc-8b46-a37e206b48e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yoon Im Kane is a psychotherapist, author, keynote speaker and the founder and CEO of Mindful Psychotherapy Services, a Manhattan-based Psychotherapy Company with offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Trained at Yale University, Yoon has been providing treatment as a psychotherapist for more than two decades. She is also the founder of a Maui-based tech company, mndlink, inc., a remote therapy platform that securely connects therapist with patients. Yoon is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Depression: Effective Mindfulness Strategies to Cultivate Positivity from the Inside Out.
Yoon Im Kane is a psychotherapist, author, keynote speaker and the founder and CEO of Mindful Psychotherapy Services, a Manhattan-based Psychotherapy Company with offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Trained at Yale University, Yoon has been providing treatment as a psychotherapist for more than two decades. She is also the founder of a Maui-based tech company, mndlink, inc., a remote therapy platform that securely connects therapist with patients. Yoon is the author of Mindfulness Workbook for Depression: Effective Mindfulness Strategies to Cultivate Positivity from the Inside Out.
![Photo of Alexa Wolkoff, Alexa Wolkoff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f37ed129-db9c-48b5-b849-759e54cfa345/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexa Wolkoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Alexa Wolkoff, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peekskill, NY 10566
Waitlist for new clients
Our thoughts, beliefs and bodies reflect our emotional struggles. We often come to therapy when old ways of coping aren't working anymore- when we long for comfort, relief, or more authentic and deeper connections in our relationships. The whole person needs to be addressed in times of crisis, transition and loss. Healing is a word derived from the German hailjan- “to make whole.” I work with a holistic, acceptance-based and contemplative approach to psychotherapy. Practicing self-compassion and self- acceptance lead to less reactivity and more peaceful, integrated and intentional lives.
Our thoughts, beliefs and bodies reflect our emotional struggles. We often come to therapy when old ways of coping aren't working anymore- when we long for comfort, relief, or more authentic and deeper connections in our relationships. The whole person needs to be addressed in times of crisis, transition and loss. Healing is a word derived from the German hailjan- “to make whole.” I work with a holistic, acceptance-based and contemplative approach to psychotherapy. Practicing self-compassion and self- acceptance lead to less reactivity and more peaceful, integrated and intentional lives.
![Photo of Kristy Zadrozny, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e27974a-7b50-492c-a95c-2383363552d1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! The process of finding a therapist is not always easy. I prioritize the collaborative relationship between therapist and client, creating an open and non-judgmental space for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely.
Hello! The process of finding a therapist is not always easy. I prioritize the collaborative relationship between therapist and client, creating an open and non-judgmental space for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely.
![Photo of Suzie Shihshin Wu, LCSW, AF-EMDR, EFT, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aa86d5f-ca1f-4fe3-a996-d2871854227f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Suzie Shihshin Wu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AF-EMDR, EFT, IFS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10002
I am an Asian Mandarin Chinese bilingual therapist providing therapy to individuals, couple, and family. I am trauma-informed & attachment based trained. I specialized in PTSD, mood disorders, emotional regulation, parenting, life transitions, relationship issues, self esteem and immigration/identity.Therapeutic relationship is a key to set for the success of treatment. We discover various aspects of your parts, discover relationship and behavior patterns, look into issues from new perspectives to promote a better quality of life. I am respectful to everyone I treat and can easily connect with your needs and best result.
I am an Asian Mandarin Chinese bilingual therapist providing therapy to individuals, couple, and family. I am trauma-informed & attachment based trained. I specialized in PTSD, mood disorders, emotional regulation, parenting, life transitions, relationship issues, self esteem and immigration/identity.Therapeutic relationship is a key to set for the success of treatment. We discover various aspects of your parts, discover relationship and behavior patterns, look into issues from new perspectives to promote a better quality of life. I am respectful to everyone I treat and can easily connect with your needs and best result.
![Photo of Catherine A Farrell, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, CDP, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cacdcc77-a089-42c8-a7a6-9bc661022613/1/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine A Farrell
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeburg, NY 10962
I provide a dynamic, integrative, person-centered approach to therapy and utilize the power of the creative process to help clients achieve emotional balance, develop personal insight, increase coping strategies for life stressors, and improve overall quality of life. I work with clients of all ages, from toddlers through older adults, struggling with depression, anxiety, adhd, divorce, and other life transitions. The body / mind connection is extremely important in the healing process and as a certified yoga instructor, I also incorporate meditation, breathwork, and gentle physical movement into the therapeutic experience.
I provide a dynamic, integrative, person-centered approach to therapy and utilize the power of the creative process to help clients achieve emotional balance, develop personal insight, increase coping strategies for life stressors, and improve overall quality of life. I work with clients of all ages, from toddlers through older adults, struggling with depression, anxiety, adhd, divorce, and other life transitions. The body / mind connection is extremely important in the healing process and as a certified yoga instructor, I also incorporate meditation, breathwork, and gentle physical movement into the therapeutic experience.
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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.