The Courage to Be Present Buddhism, Psychotherapy, and the Awakening of Natural Wisdom

The quality of presence a therapist or counselor brings to the therapeutic relationship can make all the difference in the world in how effective treatment is. But an open, compassionate presence doesnrs"t just happen. Here, a seasoned psychotherapist shows how therapists-and anyone-can cultivate the presence of healing by using as their model the Buddhist figure of the bodhisattva, the archetype of compassionate service. For the growing number of professional counselors interested in meditation and Buddhist concepts, this book provides ways for integrating those principles and practices into their work with clients. Dr. Wegela brings together her years of teaching psychology at the graduate level and practicing psychotherapy with clients, along with thirty years of meditation experience, to show just how useful Buddhist principles can be for enhancing the therapeutic process.

Dr. Karen Kissel Wegela has been a professor at Naropa University for twenty-seven years. She teaches classes in Buddhism and psychology at the master’s level. Dr. Wegela also has a private psychotherapy practice. She holds a PhD in Counseling, Psychology, and Experiential Learning.In addition to her book How to Be a Help Instead of a Nuisance, Dr. Wegela has written articles for professional journals and she is a columnist for the Shambhala Sun magazine.