What is Buddhist Psychology?

Any brief introduction to Buddhist psychology will be limited, subjective. What is described below is informed by my own experience, practice, and learning.

Buddhism initially developed in what is now known as northern India about 2600 years ago. It migrated across Asia, eventually making its way to “the West”, weaving and modifying with the cultures it moved through. At the core of the teaching, traditions, and practices is an understanding of the nature, causes, and ultimately the ending of suffering.

The integration of a Buddhist worldview into Western psychology has informed multiple contemporary evidence-based therapeutic modalities. Approaches that incorporate mindfulness, acceptance, and compassion (ACT, MBSR, MBCT, DBT for example) are all influenced by Buddhist psychology.

Buddhist psychology is steadfastly optimistic, pragmatic, and reality based. It is a perspective that believes in opening up to innate inner wisdom and taking action and responsibility in one’s life. It is a strength-based approach, fundamentally supported by a profound trust that we all have the capacity within us right now to grow, heal, and develop.

Do I need to be Buddhist to benefit from Buddhist psychology?

You do not need to “be Buddhist”, religious, or spiritual at all to receive the benefits and utilize the tools found in this approach. There is space for all beliefs and non-beliefs within the framework. In fact, many Buddhist practitioners incorporate different faiths, beliefs, and traditions. They can also can be non-religious, agnostic, and atheist.

Psychotherapy that is informed by Buddhist psychology is not an explicitly “religious” approach and does not require any adherence to specific beliefs. It is a viewpoint and a framework that emphasizes developing compassion, connection, acceptance, mindfulness, and awareness.

You can read more about the influence of Buddhist psychology on my approach in other essays. I am also informed by, trained in, and incorporate contemporary Western psychology (including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories) and creative arts in my therapeutic work. I welcome any questions or feedback.