On How Psychotherapy Can Be Helpfully Integrated Into Mindfulness Practice

Abstract

This commentary presents a discussion of some of the theoretical and technical aspects of Buddhist thought that Samlin used in his therapy with clients. The Buddhist roots of his "Attachment/Aversion Model of Client Suffering" are explored, and their origins in the Buddhist psychology known as Abhidharma are noted.  The Abhidharma is placed within the context of modern theories of conditioning.  I then outline how ideas and practices from the Buddhist tradition fit very well into the major contemporary psychotherapies, as Samlin shows using the TLDP model.   Some reasons are presented for the advantages of integrating Buddhist thought and practices into psychotherapy.  Finally, some practical suggestions are proposed for how to use this approach in psychotherapy with clients.