A fundamental principle of Buddhist psychology, on which Contemplative Psychotherapy is based, is that in order to work skillfully with others, we need to begin with ourselves.  Through practices of mindfulness-awareness meditation, we “make friends with ourselves,” and develop the confidence that we can accommodate the experiences which arise within us. This, in turn, allows us to be fully present with our clients.  Without such confidence, we might inadvertently steer our clients away from feelings and topics which we ourselves are reluctant to experience.

In this workshop, participants will have the opportunity to practice mindfulness-awareness practices including sitting meditation and “mindful wandering.”  In addition, practices which cultivate “maitri” and self-compassion in oneself and in one’s clients are introduced.

Learning Objectives

1. Practice mindfulness-awareness sitting meditation as the foundation of their clinical work.
2. Practice and instruct clients in the “mindful wandering” exercise.
3. Define and practice “maitri” so as to assist clients in developing it.