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Psychotherapy and Counselling
Offering help with life's challenges
Navigating the Buddhist Path: Overcoming Obstacles and Deepening Practice
Are you struggling on the Buddhist path?
If you have come to this page, I welcome you as a fellow or potential Dharma practitioner. Or perhaps someone who is just curious!
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On the path
Being a so-called buddhist, or nangpa as I prefer, is very dear
to my heart. I've spent a lot of time figuring out what this
means for me over the years, through experience, contemplation,
practice and study. Like riding the waves in the ocean, there are times when I have doubts and questions, and other times when I feel some hints of stability in my practice. This is ongoing for me, as I am nowhere near enlightenment, as far as I can tell!
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There were many times when it would have been helpful to talk to someone about my questions, challenges and doubts. For me, finding the teachings of Tsoknyi Rinpoche and the therapeutic work of Internal Family Systems Therapy has helped me greatly with these issues. This has given me a way to help others so they can continue on this wonderful path. For me, this is based on the meaning of the word nangpa, which is to 'look into the nature of mind, and so free us from the fear of death and help us realize the truth of life.' *
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Obstacles
I now see doubts and faith-related questions as healthy steps in spiritual growth. As we develop and change, our spiritual practice also may need to evolve. This may feel like a shaky time, and we may try to work it out on our own to avoid judgement or misunderstanding from others. As a therapist with 30 years of Buddhist practice and specialization in Internal Family Systems Therapy, I offer support for practitioners facing times of challenges and obstacles:
*Cultivating compassion for all aspects of yourself
*Rekindling inspiration and connection to Buddhist teachings
*Overcoming feelings of isolation from sangha or teacher
*Navigating relationships with non-Buddhist family and friends
*Addressing "imposter syndrome" in your spiritual path
*Recognizing and avoiding spiritual bypassing
*Exploring authenticity in Buddhist practice
*Bridging the gap between spiritual aspirations and daily reality
*Releasing Christian-rooted guilt and judgment about your practice
*Looking deeply at the meaning and presence of faith in your life
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If you can relate to any of the above, feel free to get in touch and we can have a chat. I look forward to it!​
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*The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying, p. 52-53
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