Buddhist Therapists in Atascosa, TX
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![Photo of Hong Elaine Dove, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9eca5989-7440-498f-a891-eb6c5751a162/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hong Elaine Dove
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78212 (Online Only)
I take a holistic approach to healing that includes talk therapy, EMDR, shamanic work, and Buddhist principles.
Hi there. I’m a Vietnamese-American trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I specialize in treating trauma and helping people flourish. My clients come from many different backgrounds, genders, and orientations. I work with people from 35 different cultural backgrounds, with a special interest in mixed-culture folks. I also specialize in helping people realize their full potential and personal best in relationships, careers, and spiritual growth. My typical client is strong-minded, motivated by learning and growth, and interested in removing all obstacles to the realization of their best self.
I take a holistic approach to healing that includes talk therapy, EMDR, shamanic work, and Buddhist principles.
Hi there. I’m a Vietnamese-American trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I specialize in treating trauma and helping people flourish. My clients come from many different backgrounds, genders, and orientations. I work with people from 35 different cultural backgrounds, with a special interest in mixed-culture folks. I also specialize in helping people realize their full potential and personal best in relationships, careers, and spiritual growth. My typical client is strong-minded, motivated by learning and growth, and interested in removing all obstacles to the realization of their best self.
![Photo of Jesse Cardin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53487df5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jesse Cardin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78213 (Online Only)
Using my background in depth psychotherapy and Zen Buddhist meditation practice, I'll teach you how to listen more deeply to your thoughts and emotions.
Acknowledging that you might be in over your head isn't weak, it's wise. Have you tried calming techniques, but your anxiety still attacks you? Or relationships always seem to go sour or you never quite feel at ease even when everything's OK? Maybe it's time to look a little deeper. It's not that cutting off toxic people or upping your cardio won't help, because they probably will! But sometimes the wound goes deeper than that or the situation you're in is just too overwhelming to sort through on your own. When things like that go unaddressed, they sabotage even our best efforts at creating the life we want.
Using my background in depth psychotherapy and Zen Buddhist meditation practice, I'll teach you how to listen more deeply to your thoughts and emotions.
Acknowledging that you might be in over your head isn't weak, it's wise. Have you tried calming techniques, but your anxiety still attacks you? Or relationships always seem to go sour or you never quite feel at ease even when everything's OK? Maybe it's time to look a little deeper. It's not that cutting off toxic people or upping your cardio won't help, because they probably will! But sometimes the wound goes deeper than that or the situation you're in is just too overwhelming to sort through on your own. When things like that go unaddressed, they sabotage even our best efforts at creating the life we want.
![Photo of Kasey Williams, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4513786-b275-417c-b2bb-c87929ab68af/1/320x400.jpeg)
I ground our work together in Internal Family Systems (IFS) or parts work, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), somatic techniques, and Buddhist Psychology.
I am a trauma-sensitive, creative, and compassionate therapist who is passionate about working with teens, young adults, and couples. My personal practices of photography, Zazen meditation, and yoga have informed my clinical social work practice by enabling me to integrate art, mindfulness, and ancient wisdom traditions into my work. I have experience working with individuals as they navigate anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, bullying and social isolation, family of origin issues, communication skills, and boundary-setting. I welcome and accept all identities in my practice.
I ground our work together in Internal Family Systems (IFS) or parts work, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), somatic techniques, and Buddhist Psychology.
I am a trauma-sensitive, creative, and compassionate therapist who is passionate about working with teens, young adults, and couples. My personal practices of photography, Zazen meditation, and yoga have informed my clinical social work practice by enabling me to integrate art, mindfulness, and ancient wisdom traditions into my work. I have experience working with individuals as they navigate anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, bullying and social isolation, family of origin issues, communication skills, and boundary-setting. I welcome and accept all identities in my practice.
![Photo of Allison Ray Benavides, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4d00d38-6806-4c8c-9ccf-ab38eba441a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Ray Benavides
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209 (Online Only)
I study IFS, Buddhist, Psychedelic & Jungian psychologies.
If you’re in chronic pain (emotional or physical), feel left out of life or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit :) Some bodies & minds have a nervous system that continuously sends danger signals. These intrusive, distressing “internal misunderstandings” show up as chronic symptoms - preventing us from experiencing what is good, right & true about ourselves, our relationships & life. I'm here to help desensitize & reprogram the internal vibes & thoughts decreasing your quality of life - to pass along eclectic, simple & warm yet evidenced-based strategies to nurture & restore your mind, body & heart.
I study IFS, Buddhist, Psychedelic & Jungian psychologies.
If you’re in chronic pain (emotional or physical), feel left out of life or find yourself doubting your value or ability, I could be a good fit :) Some bodies & minds have a nervous system that continuously sends danger signals. These intrusive, distressing “internal misunderstandings” show up as chronic symptoms - preventing us from experiencing what is good, right & true about ourselves, our relationships & life. I'm here to help desensitize & reprogram the internal vibes & thoughts decreasing your quality of life - to pass along eclectic, simple & warm yet evidenced-based strategies to nurture & restore your mind, body & heart.
![Photo of Dr. Jon Kent Reid, PhD, MBC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feaca996-1c7d-41f8-916f-fde159d8a37c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jon Kent Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MBC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Jon Reid. If you're ready to make some changes in your life, or figure out what is holding you back, I'm happy to accompany you on the journey. I’m a native Texan and received my license as a Professional Counselor in 1988; as well as the National Certified Counselor credential. My career has been a mix of teaching Psychology and Counseling and providing counseling in various settings. My PhD is from Texas Woman’s University; and yes, they do allow men as students. I received a Master's degree in Religious Education and a Master's degree in Buddhist Counseling. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
Hi, my name is Jon Reid. If you're ready to make some changes in your life, or figure out what is holding you back, I'm happy to accompany you on the journey. I’m a native Texan and received my license as a Professional Counselor in 1988; as well as the National Certified Counselor credential. My career has been a mix of teaching Psychology and Counseling and providing counseling in various settings. My PhD is from Texas Woman’s University; and yes, they do allow men as students. I received a Master's degree in Religious Education and a Master's degree in Buddhist Counseling. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
![Photo of Mel Walsh, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9e37df0-8525-4f47-b6f6-536533d0662f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I help people struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions and stress to heal from the past and experience peace and fulfillment in the present. I enjoy working with folks who feel ready for a change and want to transform their problems at the root level. I have experience working with children, teens and adults from diverse backgrounds, and I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ folks, immigrants, parents, and creatives.
I help people struggling with anxiety, trauma, life transitions and stress to heal from the past and experience peace and fulfillment in the present. I enjoy working with folks who feel ready for a change and want to transform their problems at the root level. I have experience working with children, teens and adults from diverse backgrounds, and I enjoy working with LGBTQ+ folks, immigrants, parents, and creatives.
![Photo of Devra Anne Canter Morton, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41a68ec7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Devra Anne Canter Morton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Dripping Springs, TX 78620 (Online Only)
My work seems to be primarily with grad students, young professionals, and humans going through life changes. I enjoy the creative process of growth growing out of discomfort.
My work seems to be primarily with grad students, young professionals, and humans going through life changes. I enjoy the creative process of growth growing out of discomfort.
![Photo of Latosha Kessell Thomas, MS, LPC, RYT, USAF, Veteran, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77c3da9b-9373-4ca1-91f2-db222cd20c9c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Latosha Kessell Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT, USAF, Veteran
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702 (Online Only)
Life transitions can cause great strain in our lives and can lead to even greater pain if not addressed. Signs that you may be struggling with a life transition are depression, anxiety, feeling unsettled and lost, emptiness, fatigue, chronic pain, unexplained ailments, and illnesses. Life is full of painful transitions. Transitions can disconnect you from your true self, what’s important to you, and ultimately disconnect you from a life with meaning. Greater clarity, self-confidence, and balance will help you reconnect with your true self and your values to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Life transitions can cause great strain in our lives and can lead to even greater pain if not addressed. Signs that you may be struggling with a life transition are depression, anxiety, feeling unsettled and lost, emptiness, fatigue, chronic pain, unexplained ailments, and illnesses. Life is full of painful transitions. Transitions can disconnect you from your true self, what’s important to you, and ultimately disconnect you from a life with meaning. Greater clarity, self-confidence, and balance will help you reconnect with your true self and your values to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Chelsea DeKruyff, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c2f2989-6fb2-4f97-b919-0dc70e32b13c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea DeKruyff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
My name is Chelsea DeKruyff, MA, LPC. I am a compassion-centered, neuroscience-informed psychotherapist in Austin, Texas. I specialize in working with PTSD and trauma-related disorders, ADHD, relationships and codependency, and identity issues. You may feel like your experience is too big, that it would overwhelm a listener. You may also think that your experiences are inconsequential and don't warrant the attention of a therapist. If you hold either view, I encourage you to open yourself to new possibilities.
My name is Chelsea DeKruyff, MA, LPC. I am a compassion-centered, neuroscience-informed psychotherapist in Austin, Texas. I specialize in working with PTSD and trauma-related disorders, ADHD, relationships and codependency, and identity issues. You may feel like your experience is too big, that it would overwhelm a listener. You may also think that your experiences are inconsequential and don't warrant the attention of a therapist. If you hold either view, I encourage you to open yourself to new possibilities.
![Photo of Delora Evans, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/568e1af3-5b00-4640-a06b-28ba2aab1e96/1/320x400.png)
Delora Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78251 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Delora Evans LPC-S, LCDC. I have been in the therapy/counseling field for over 20 years. I believe that people may sometimes need help in many areas of their lives, therefore I treat them with a person-centered, wholistic approach, with a person-centered approach, the therapist treats the whole person and is instrumental to the changes of the client but is not directly responsible for any change. One of my biggest strengths is that I have an enthusiastic and motivating personality. I am empathetic, compassionate, and humanistic in my approach to helping.
Hello, my name is Delora Evans LPC-S, LCDC. I have been in the therapy/counseling field for over 20 years. I believe that people may sometimes need help in many areas of their lives, therefore I treat them with a person-centered, wholistic approach, with a person-centered approach, the therapist treats the whole person and is instrumental to the changes of the client but is not directly responsible for any change. One of my biggest strengths is that I have an enthusiastic and motivating personality. I am empathetic, compassionate, and humanistic in my approach to helping.
![Photo of Kirsten Bonaventura, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a95e9611-4849-43db-a812-38b89b433f6e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you prioritize everyone else in your life? Do you have difficulty comfortably expressing your feelings? Have you noticed negative patterns in your relationships? As a clinical psychologist, I assist clients with making desired changes in their relationships and behaviors. Therapy is utilized to improve self esteem, communication, and build coping skills. I frequently treat clients struggling with issues of codependency, depression and anxiety. I also assist clients who are navigating through a particularly challenging time in their lives, so that they are able to move forward with an improved sense of self and direction.
Do you prioritize everyone else in your life? Do you have difficulty comfortably expressing your feelings? Have you noticed negative patterns in your relationships? As a clinical psychologist, I assist clients with making desired changes in their relationships and behaviors. Therapy is utilized to improve self esteem, communication, and build coping skills. I frequently treat clients struggling with issues of codependency, depression and anxiety. I also assist clients who are navigating through a particularly challenging time in their lives, so that they are able to move forward with an improved sense of self and direction.
![Photo of Natasha Villalobos, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23d80b83-9dc2-429c-b5dc-71ad68caff04/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natasha Villalobos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Waitlist for new clients
I am proud to work with clients whose brains are different, whose ways of looking at and interacting with the world are unique, and who are looking to untangle their authentic selves from the mask society pushed them to wear, learn to love/accept themselves as they are, and use this radical self-love to make the changes they want to see. Creative, brave, bold, spicy, innovative, intelligent, justice-oriented - these are the traits that were already there inside those wonderful human beings I serve, and one way or another the world tried to bury them. But the world didn't know they were seeds.
I am proud to work with clients whose brains are different, whose ways of looking at and interacting with the world are unique, and who are looking to untangle their authentic selves from the mask society pushed them to wear, learn to love/accept themselves as they are, and use this radical self-love to make the changes they want to see. Creative, brave, bold, spicy, innovative, intelligent, justice-oriented - these are the traits that were already there inside those wonderful human beings I serve, and one way or another the world tried to bury them. But the world didn't know they were seeds.
![Photo of Nicole T Patrick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a55722b7-2886-4ebe-908f-2963dfccb288/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole T Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78259 (Online Only)
All emotions (and pain) are valid. All thoughts are valid. There are reasons behind them. Let's explore them together to help you meet your goals and find a helpful perspective. I believe that everyone can improve themselves, find healing, and live a more fulfilling life with the right tools, honesty and openness, the willingness to change, and a non-judgmental, compassionate environment. I work hard to create this. I have Master's degrees in Counseling and Religious Studies; I can incorporate spiritual guidance into sessions if you would like. However, I have formed wonderful relationships with clients who are spiritual and non.
All emotions (and pain) are valid. All thoughts are valid. There are reasons behind them. Let's explore them together to help you meet your goals and find a helpful perspective. I believe that everyone can improve themselves, find healing, and live a more fulfilling life with the right tools, honesty and openness, the willingness to change, and a non-judgmental, compassionate environment. I work hard to create this. I have Master's degrees in Counseling and Religious Studies; I can incorporate spiritual guidance into sessions if you would like. However, I have formed wonderful relationships with clients who are spiritual and non.
![Photo of Tracey Ungar, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d377fd5f-8fd0-4b07-8684-86177568ddac/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychologist with thirty-years of experience as a therapist, educator, and group facilitator. I work via tele-health. I am licensed in Texas and New York. I received my degrees from New York University and Long Island University and then moved to Texas years ago to work with active duty servicemembers. Currently, I work in private practice and I specialize in ADHD coaching, Depression, PTSD, Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, Psychedelic Plant Medicine Integration, Interior Design Consultation, and Racial/Cultural Identity.
I am a psychologist with thirty-years of experience as a therapist, educator, and group facilitator. I work via tele-health. I am licensed in Texas and New York. I received my degrees from New York University and Long Island University and then moved to Texas years ago to work with active duty servicemembers. Currently, I work in private practice and I specialize in ADHD coaching, Depression, PTSD, Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, Psychedelic Plant Medicine Integration, Interior Design Consultation, and Racial/Cultural Identity.
![Photo of Amber Lundell, M Ed, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e3badb5-7a4c-4dd9-95e9-ba814b3c810a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling completely drained? Overwhelmed by anxiety/life/depression/grief/all the things? Or maybe you just need someone to talk to? The painful situations that have hurt your heart and the expectations of modern life are heavy to carry alone. Imagine the relief you’ll feel when the pace of your life slows down, those negative self-critical thoughts quiet, and your joy begins to grow with every day. You deserve to live your best life, freed from the chains of suffering and worry.
Are you feeling completely drained? Overwhelmed by anxiety/life/depression/grief/all the things? Or maybe you just need someone to talk to? The painful situations that have hurt your heart and the expectations of modern life are heavy to carry alone. Imagine the relief you’ll feel when the pace of your life slows down, those negative self-critical thoughts quiet, and your joy begins to grow with every day. You deserve to live your best life, freed from the chains of suffering and worry.
![Photo of Shanna Dominguez - Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2077ca-7c68-4f5e-8281-a9692025d637/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dominguez Psychotherapy and Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78248
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
My name is Shanna Dominguez and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. You may be experiencing worry, fear, anxiety, depression, or a variety of other emotions. Good news, those emotions can be managed, I believe there are two experts in the room: You are the expert of your life and I am the clinical expert. I have had the privilege of working with adults, couples, and adolescents. I use a variety of techniques and theories to guide my work with you depending on what fits your needs. I specialize in CBT and DBT methods. As humans, we not only want to feel understood, but we want to understand ourselves & why we do the things we do.
![Photo of Christina Renee Spinler, MS, NBC-HWC, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/284bfd1b-bcfa-46aa-9b66-32dc7ed77b9b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Renee Spinler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, NBC-HWC, RYT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're seeking a deeper understanding and improvement in your relationship with yourself and others, my practice offers a supportive setting for personal growth and exploration. We can tackle a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, & trauma, employing the Internal Family Systems model alongside mind-body techniques. These approaches allow us to delve into your emotional world, aiming for a greater understanding of the different aspects of yourself. This process is about transforming the way you relate to yourself and others, emphasizing the critical importance of your relationship with yourself.
If you're seeking a deeper understanding and improvement in your relationship with yourself and others, my practice offers a supportive setting for personal growth and exploration. We can tackle a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, & trauma, employing the Internal Family Systems model alongside mind-body techniques. These approaches allow us to delve into your emotional world, aiming for a greater understanding of the different aspects of yourself. This process is about transforming the way you relate to yourself and others, emphasizing the critical importance of your relationship with yourself.
![Photo of Sandra Olarte-Hayes - Trauma Anxiety And Depression Therapist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33cc349c-455c-413d-bd65-73d985fd7e8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Olarte-Hayes - Trauma Anxiety And Depression Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701
You seem to have it all—a successful career, lasting relationships, and a commitment to making a difference. Yet, internally you're plagued by a sense of emptiness, loneliness, and a longing for true meaning and fulfillment. Many of my clients are dedicated high achievers who pour their hearts and souls into everything they do, yet they feel overworked, overwhelmed, and disconnected from their own needs and desires. They yearn for genuine understanding, connection, and the freedom to be their authentic selves. They seek to shed old narratives and limitations, embracing vulnerability to rediscover purpose and vitality.
You seem to have it all—a successful career, lasting relationships, and a commitment to making a difference. Yet, internally you're plagued by a sense of emptiness, loneliness, and a longing for true meaning and fulfillment. Many of my clients are dedicated high achievers who pour their hearts and souls into everything they do, yet they feel overworked, overwhelmed, and disconnected from their own needs and desires. They yearn for genuine understanding, connection, and the freedom to be their authentic selves. They seek to shed old narratives and limitations, embracing vulnerability to rediscover purpose and vitality.
![Photo of Lisa Dreher, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ccfd44b-df5e-46e6-b520-5e5947e6ba5b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you looking to feel more joy, connection and authenticity in your life? Have you struggled to connect with your sense of agency, power and efficacy? Serving individuals and couples who seek to establish healthier relationship dynamics with themselves and others is a true gift. My passion for this work is rooted in my genuine appreciation and respect for anyone who embarks on the journey of self discovery. In addition to my work with individuals and couples, I offer consultations with parents & caregivers looking to increase harmony and decrease difficult behaviors in their homes with their children.
Are you looking to feel more joy, connection and authenticity in your life? Have you struggled to connect with your sense of agency, power and efficacy? Serving individuals and couples who seek to establish healthier relationship dynamics with themselves and others is a true gift. My passion for this work is rooted in my genuine appreciation and respect for anyone who embarks on the journey of self discovery. In addition to my work with individuals and couples, I offer consultations with parents & caregivers looking to increase harmony and decrease difficult behaviors in their homes with their children.
![Photo of Linda M Mockeridge, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cff026d6-983c-445f-89c2-47e467c38fea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda M Mockeridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230 (Online Only)
Many times, we have stressors and issues that impact our lives. When sleep or appetite is affected, functioning at work or home is compromised it may help to explore these concerns with a professional to find solutions and relief.
Many times, we have stressors and issues that impact our lives. When sleep or appetite is affected, functioning at work or home is compromised it may help to explore these concerns with a professional to find solutions and relief.
See more therapy options for Atascosa
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.