Presence, Clarity and the Space of Receptivity in Counselling

Dialogues between Buddhism and Psychotherapy link§philosophical concepts from each tradition as both§systems offer insights into the psychology of the§mind and promote emotional well-being through§self-awareness; in Buddhism this is fostered through§meditation practice. Recent advances in neuroscience§research have led to greater understanding of the§beneficial impact of meditation on mental function.§How this is embodied in counseling remains a§challenge for many counselors. This book offers§practical insights from the actual experiences of§counselors who are Shambhala Buddhist practitioners.§Using the logic of Buddhism thought, Dr. Jennifer§Rodrigues presents the findings of her research on§how the practice of Shambhala Buddhism is distilled§in interaction. Enhanced counselor awareness,§profound empathic connection, attentiveness to self§and other, and openness without agenda give rise to§the conceptual clarity that informs skillful action.§It results in an openhearted presence, clarity and§receptivity. This study enlarges the conversation on§empathy and counselor competency. It offers§substantive practical implications for counseling§practice and for the education of counselors.