Buddhist Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy (originally "psycho-therapeia") was first coined in 1853 by English psychiatrist Walter Cooper. In essence, psychotherapy improves an individual's mental health through deep conversations, focusing on connecting our thoughts and emotions (Jeon, 2021). Sigmund Freud is famously the first profound contributor to the field, with his explanations of the unconscious, dreams, and models of the human mind. Despite popular belief, the beginning of scientific psychotherapy did not originate in the 19th century, but over 2,600 years ago with Buddhism (Haggerty, 2021).

The practice of Buddhism covers philosophy, psychology, and ethics. It provides theories of the human mind and condition (psychology), beliefs about reality (philosophy) and recommendations for appropriate human behaviour (ethics). The cumulative goal of these different facets of Buddhism is to achieve Nibbāna or the ending of suffering. Having Buddhist practice centred around the achievement of fulfilment and end of suffering makes it intrinsically therapeutic. Buddhism is increasingly influencing modern psychotherapeutic techniques because its intrinsic nature provides a deep and holistic approach; one which deals with the mind, emotions, and body (Kelly, 2008).

Buddhist psychotherapy is a growing counselling discipline integrating Buddhism, psychotherapy training, and clinical mindfulness (Strong, 2021). The treatment aims to deconstruct the habitual negative patterns that bring suffering and restore positive habits, awakening wellness and happiness through compassionate and loving openness. It centres on the phenomenology that our problems (dukkha) originate from self-clinging (upādāna) (Baehr, 2009). Our recent experiences do not have an independent basis; they are influenced by our sense of self, rooted in our past and conditioning (Fink, 2015). For example, an individual failing to achieve a particular goal within their childhood leads them to develop a mindset that they are not ‘good enough’ or worthy. Their thoughts then project into their future, becoming an expectation for their tomorrow, next week, next month - perpetuating themselves into feelings of unworthiness throughout their lifetime, if left unresolved (Amir, 2011). Experiencing through a filter of the past and repeated experience creates a world of ignorance, experiencing "what seems to be" rather than "what really is" (Baehr, 2009, p.109).

Buddhist Psychotherapy helps us break free from self-clinging, the habits of thoughts and behaviour which have formed a cage around us. It frees us from automatic patterns of thoughtless compliance while opening our minds to responding with spontaneous presence and wisdom (Baehr, 2009). One of the central techniques used by Buddhist Psychotherapy is transcendental meditation, created by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in India during the 1950s (Hjelle, 1974). Transcendental means to extend beyond the surface. While some forms of meditation focus on the surface of the mind to clear intrusive thoughts, transcendental meditation recognizes a vertical dimension to the mind; a level that is constantly calm, peaceful, and alert (Roth, 2018). Through a mantra (repeated words or sounds), the mind may transcend into a deeper level of calmness, anchoring it to the present moment. This may enable the meditator to experience the world as "what really is" opposed to "what it seems to be" (Baehr, 2009, p.109; Hjelle, 1974; Roth, 2018).

Transcendental meditation should be practiced twice a day for about 20 minutes. It involves sitting with closed eyes while chanting/listening to a mantra. Randomized control trials conducted by Elder (2014) found significant reductions in transcendental meditation groups compared to control groups for variables identified as perceived stress and burnout.

It is important to note that although spiritual practices within Buddhism influence Buddhist Psychotherapy, the therapy does not assume the client or therapist identifies with any religion, and its effectiveness is not dependent on faith. It is a non-religious method for stress reduction, relaxation, and self-development. The practice's success depends on the willingness and authenticity of the client and therapist engaged in the session (Baehr, 2009). In the wise words of the Dalai Lama, Buddhism is a "science of the mind", with teachings to contribute, not convert (Baehr, 2009, p. 107).