Contemplative Therapy

Contemplative therapy borrows principles and philosophies from Buddhism and integrates them with more traditional clinical approaches. Contemplative therapy is founded on the belief that each individual has the power within themselves to heal their own pain. Contemplative therapy is often a good match for individuals seeking to increase self-awareness and improve well-being in a holistic way. Mindfulness techniques to root oneself in the present moment and achieve clarity are the hallmarks of this approach. Think this approach might be right for you? Reach out to one of TherapyDen’s contemplative therapy experts today.

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I completed my master's degree in contemplative psychotherapy (now titled Buddhist Psychology) at Naropa University. This included a great deal of study beyond traditional therapy programs to learn Buddhist philosophy and practice meditation and mindfulness techniques. We embodied these practices beyond just intellectual understanding by undertaking two-week-long meditation retreats every semester, during which we would implement what we were learning to better understand it within ourselves.

— Grace Ballard, Sex Therapist in New York, NY

I have a one-of-kind training from Naropa University with a masters degree in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology. Contemplative Therapy is an approach that combines Buddhist wisdom teachings with that of traditional western therapeutic approaches. It is rooted in the belief that we all possess innate wisdom. Through approaches grounded in openness, compassion and curiosity, I help clients uncover their innate wisdom and trust in it.

— Matthew Beals, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Fort Collins, CO
 

Buddhism + psychology is an incredibly powerful combination for personal growth. Buddhism provides the analogy and wisdoms for living a life free from suffering — we are lotuses that transform the murky mud of our world and its challenges into nutrients for growth — psychology provides insight and guidance into the process of human development and offer tools for change. Up for the challenge? I will dive deep with you to tackle the most fundamental questions about life and who we are.

— I-Ching Grace Hung, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA

I integrate the Contemplative Theory seamlessly into my approach. By recognizing and embracing our strengths, often overlooked or dismissed, we gain the confidence needed to explore painful experiences. As humans, we thrive in a constant state of change, and the Contemplative Theory aligns perfectly with this perspective. It fosters ongoing self-exploration, guiding us towards our truest selves in this ever-evolving journey of life.

— MICHAEL ROSE, Licensed Professional Counselor in ,
 

I graduated from Naropa University in the Contemplative Psychology program. Currently work as a professor at Naropa in the Mindfulness-based Transpersonal Program. My approach is rooted in the contemplative tradition. This approach is acceptance based, present moment centered, and works by recognizing the wholeness of my client. Who you want to become is already within you, let's uncover who you are together.

— Jenna Noah, Counselor in Denver, CO

Overcoming our very human tendency to grasp at pleasure and avoid what's unpleasant is at the core of our work together in therapy. Fortunately, contemplative therapy also allows us to access tools available in your very own heart/mind to make that work less tedious and more meaningful.

— Christine Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oxford, MS
 

Masters of Clinical Mental Health - focus on Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology

— Electra Byers, Psychotherapist in arvada, CO

As I am animated by the contemplative traditions, my intention for you is no less than that you learn to live in an abiding awareness of your own preciousness.

— Megan Gibbard Kline, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Burien, WA
 

Jodi is a graduate of Naropa's Contemplative Psychotherapy Graduate Program. Naropa University’s concentration in Contemplative Psychotherapy & Buddhist Psychology master's degree is a counseling program that grounds itself in the Buddhist contemplative wisdom tradition and includes current humanistic psychological approaches to give insight and skills to show up fully for one's self and others.

— Jodi Alieksaites, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boulder, CO

Frequent use of contemplative therapy techniques.

— Shana Moorefield, Clinical Social Worker in North East, MD
 

My practice is grounded in Buddhist and Contemplative psychology, informed by my study in the Contemplative Psychotherapy Program at Nalanda Institute.

— Talia Kalter, Mental Health Counselor in New York, NY

Just as the breath calms the body, meditation calms the mind. Meditation has physical, emotional, mental and spiritual benefits. Elizabeth guides her clients in different styles of meditating to determine which form is most effective in giving them the deepest sense of wellbeing, maintain equanimity and handle difficult situations. Meditation has been proven to change the brain in ways that correlate with less stress and depression, less pain and anxiety, and a stronger immune system.

— Elizabeth Pankey-Warren, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Boca Raton, FL
 

Contemplative psychotherapy operates on the belief that all people have natural wisdom within them, and this wisdom can be used to achieve healing and self-awareness. I believe that all people are gifted and creative beings, but sometimes those gifts get buried under years of trauma or other pain. It is my great privilege to help you heal your pain and tap into that inner wisdom for optimal living.

— dawn altman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bryn Mawr, PA

Extensive study and training in buddhist psychology and other compassion-based practices.

— stephanie manes, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, NY
 

Contemplative therapy addresses our need for mindfulness and spirituality. Acknowledging and creating a place of safety, trust, and a place where you can be free to share whatever is on your mind with no judgement. I help you go deep into your psyche to find answers - your truth that may be buried so far down with layers of confusion, second guessing, filled with anxiety wondering what you really want and who you really are.

— Erica Randolph, Counselor in Tucson, AZ

"Contemplative psychotherapy, a branch of therapy integrating Eastern Buddhist philosophy and practice with the clinical traditions of modern Western psychology, is rooted in the belief that all people are granted the internal wisdom necessary to heal from pain." For more information follow the below url: https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/types/contemplative-psychotherapy

— Zina Krivoruk, Therapist