Buddhism-Based Therapy
Gabriel Ellis, PhD
Therapy that brings together the best of contemporary psychology with Buddhist practice and self-development for long lasting solutions
I developed Buddhism-based Therapy combining my experiences in more than a decade of psychotherapy, twenty years of meditation, and my PhD research in original Buddhism. Buddhism as spiritual practice and science of the mind develops self-love, self-examination, ownership, curiosity, energetic peace, conditionality, and individuality. I use these aspects when I conduct sessions – whether in individual work or in couple counselling.
I also look at life holistically, knowing that in the end it is necessary to integrate self-development, relationship, family, work, and friendship. This individually adapted approach counters the by now normal fragmentation of life and encompasses contemplation, meditation, action, and communication.
The seven principles of Buddhism-based Therapy
self-love
Self-love is a key attitude of caring for and forgiving ourselves. We embrace our inner critic with kindness, look for the needs behind it and satisfy them gradually.
self-examination
We look at our thoughts, feelings, and acts clearly, without shame, fear, or blaming others. Thus we release our unconscious from protecting us from the pain of feeling insufficient or helpless.
ownership
We take responsibility for our life situation and the fulfillment of our needs. Together with self-love and self-examination we rebuild a healthy intuition and integrate our experience.
curiosity
A playful attitude of openness and curiosity provides the necessary mental space and lightness to make true discoveries in self-development.
energetic peace
We welcome change in a calm and wholesome way, with self-love and compassion. We engage in meditation and contemplations to develop a peaceful and energetic mind.
conditionality
Mental states are maintained by a flow of energy. With ownership, meditation and therapeutic dialogue we carefully allow the unconscious to redirect our mental energies to wholesome states.
individuality
In our personal journey we question the values and attitudes of society. This freedom is challenging but allows us to stand on our own and have deep interactions with others beyond the social persona.
