63rd Annual Conference

Saturday, February 25

Afternoon Workshops

2:15-5:30 P.M.

Workshop 89

The Sound of One Therapist Not Talking: The Buddhist View of No Self and Its Implication on Group Dynamic Interventions

Chair:     

William Sell, M.A., Executive Director, Living Well Transitions, Boulder, Colorado

Buddhism describes the self as, beginningless and endless, empty of any inherent nature and yet luminous in its display in relation to other. In group work this view of the self illumes both in the individual and in the group process. Understanding and applying this view to group treatment allows the facilitator more tools to work with group dynamics.

experiential-didactic–demonstration-sharing of work experiences

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will be able to:

1. Describe qualities and characteristics of the Buddhist view of "no self".

2. Explain how the practice of mindfulness/awareness meditation supports applying the view of "no self" to group practice.

3. Define specific Buddhist terms related to the description of "no self".

4. Identify group interventions based on the view of "no self".

Course References:

1. Chodron, P. (1994). Start Where You Are: A Guide to Compassionate Living. Boston: Shambhala Press.

2. Trungpa, C. (1983). Becoming a Full Human Being. In J. Welwood (Ed.). Awakening the Heart: East/West approaches to psychotherapy and the healing relationship. Boston: Shambhala Press. 126-131.

3. Neruda, P. (1987). Keeping Quiet. In S. Walker (Ed.). Speaking of Silence: Christians and Buddhists on the contemplative way Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press. 298-299.