The Buddha's influence in the therapy room

With the growing acceptance of Buddhist practices and ideas in psychology, therapists are addressing the question of how the Buddha’s teachings such as meditation and mindfulness, “letting go” and “the concept of dependent origination” can be applied in the therapy room. The practice of concentration and mindfulness meditation enhances the therapist’s own ability to bracket and setting aside theoretical explanations and preconceptions, and improves the therapist’s capacity to listen quietly, and to remain open to the client. Mindfulness practices afford clients a way to self-explore, and to make space for their feelings and thoughts and to respond appropriately. The influence of the Buddha in the therapy room is illustrated with case studies and anecdotes.