Prescribing the Dharma: Psychotherapists, Buddhist Traditions, and Defining Religion

The popular imagination has shown interest in the psychotherapeutic capacity of Buddhist teachings and practices, with neuropsychological studies and applications in various settings. Ira Helderman's book explores how psychotherapists have related to Buddhist traditions, focusing on their understanding of religion and science and how these concepts shape their approaches.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2019
Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press

The popular imagination is captivated by the psychotherapeutic potential of Buddhist teachings and practices, as evidenced by the frequent coverage of neuropsychological studies on Buddhist meditation and the widespread implementation of mindfulness practices in various settings, including corporate offices, the U.S. military, and university health centers. However, the exploration of the psychological dimensions of Buddhist doctrine has a long and rich history, dating back to the pioneering work of figures such as William James and Carl Jung. This scholarly endeavor has not only influenced the field of mental health but also shaped Buddhist practice across the United States.

In his groundbreaking book, "The Psychotherapists of Buddhism: A Comprehensive Study," Ira Helderman delves into the diverse ways in which psychotherapists have engaged with Buddhist traditions. Through extensive fieldwork and in-depth interviews with clinicians who have played a significant role in the therapeutic application of Buddhist practices, Helderman offers a unique perspective on the psychotherapists themselves. He explores how these professionals understand key concepts such as religion and science, shedding light on their approaches to integrating Buddhist teachings into their work.

One notable theme that emerges from Helderman's study is the varying perspectives among psychotherapists regarding the boundaries between religion and psychotherapy. Some psychotherapists maintain a strict separation between the two, viewing psychotherapy as a biomedical discipline that should remain secular. They argue that incorporating religious beliefs into psychotherapy can be harmful and may lead to conflicts of interest. On the other hand, there are psychotherapists who embrace a more inclusive approach, recognizing the potential benefits of integrating spiritual and religious aspects into therapy. They view religion as a rich source of wisdom and guidance that can complement and enhance the therapeutic process.

Helderman's findings demonstrate how psychotherapists' approaches to Buddhist traditions are shaped by their definitions of what is and is not religious. He highlights how central these concepts are in contemporary American culture, where religion plays a significant role in shaping individuals' beliefs, values, and behaviors. Psychotherapists' interpretations of Buddhist teachings and practices are influenced by their understanding of the interplay between religion, science, and psychotherapy, reflecting the broader cultural context in which they operate.

This book is a valuable resource for psychotherapists, mental health professionals, and anyone interested in the intersection of religion, psychology, and mental health. It provides a comprehensive exploration of the diverse ways in which psychotherapists have related to Buddhist traditions, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities that arise in this interdisciplinary field. By offering a voice to the psychotherapists themselves, Helderman enables readers to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and nuances of integrating Buddhist teachings into psychotherapy.

In conclusion, the interest in the psychotherapeutic capacity of Buddhist teachings and practices is widely recognized, and this book contributes significantly to our understanding of the relationship between religion, psychology, and mental health. Through extensive fieldwork and in-depth interviews, Helderman provides a valuable perspective on the psychotherapists themselves, highlighting the diverse ways in which they have engaged with Buddhist traditions and the impact that this integration has had on both the mental health field and Buddhist practice. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of spirituality and psychotherapy and the potential for healing and transformation that can arise from this interdisciplinary approach.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 158 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781469648521