Mindfulness Training and  Buddhist Psychology

In recent decades mindfulness meditation has become widely recognized in scientific research and the mainstream media for its benefits with helping people to calm their agitated mental and emotional states. This practice has its roots in ancient contemplative traditions such as Buddhism. As more people have discovered mindfulness meditation, many have also begun exploring how Buddhist concepts and practices can help them to find peace, clarity, and understanding.

As a psychologist, meditator, and Buddhist practitioner, I have long been curious about the similarities between psychotherapy and Buddhist principles. Buddhism practice is often described as mind training, and the overcoming of afflictive emotions is a mutual aim of both Buddhism and psychology.

One does not have to become a Buddhist to benefit from Buddhist principles and practices, such as mindfulness meditation and compassion training. Many people find that receiving instruction in how to meditate and being able to incorporate their meditation practice into their psychotherapy or coaching work enhances their treatment and learning outcomes. To this end, I provide instruction to help one successfully incorporate a meditation practice into their busy life. In addition, I help clients to understand how Buddhist principles can help them to relate to their lived experience with more compassion, clarity, and intentionality.