Jennifer Rodrigues

Presence, Clarity and the Space of Receptivity in Counselling Jennifer Rodrigues

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.