Leila McKay, MA, LPC
Mindfulness Psychotherapy
Leila McKay, Psychotherapy
1211 Baylor Street, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78703
ph: 512-906-9296
leilamck
Contemplative, mindfulness psychotherapy is a gentle, life-affirming way to work with painful life experiences; and a means of cultivating clarity, compassion, and skillful action in your life.
Mindfulness psychotherapy is a form of contemplative psychology blending Western therapeutic techniques with Buddhist philosophy and awareness practices. Since Buddhist philosophy views everyone as intrinsically healthy, the contemplative approach focuses on helping us connect with the wisdom we each have within.
Often, when we have been wounded by life circumstances, our conditioned minds make decisions based on 'stories' we create about our painful moments and we create more pain for ourselves. Viewing our lives with clarity, presence, and compassion offers us a way to break free of conditioning to meet life fully.
Mindfulness means being present with whatever arises in the moment and just allowing it to be there. Practicing mindfulness can bring a deep sense of inner peace and a calm mind to difficult and confusing life situations. Once learned, the techniques of mindfulness can be applied to all issues and states of mind that may arise in one's life.
Eckhart Tolle
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy pairs Buddhist mindfulness practice with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques (CBT).
Learning MBCT can bring freedom from disturbing thoughts, change moods and negative emotions, and reduce stress. A famous Buddhist saying is "Pain is unavoidable, suffering is optional."
Mindfulness psychotherapy offers couples and families a way to view their relationships from a perspective of starting a new chapter rather than trying to correct all the 'wrongs' of the past. Learning to communicate mindfully can help build the bridge to authentic relationship. Practicing Maitri, unconditional kindness toward self and others, unites family members and restores love.
Note: Contemplative, mindfulness psychotherapy is a secular approach to psychotherapy. It is not necessary to meditate or follow Buddhist teachings to benefit from it. The practice and philosophy of mindfulness works well with most spiritual and religious traditions.
Leila McKay, Psychotherapy
1211 Baylor Street, Suite 200
Austin, TX 78703
ph: 512-906-9296
leilamck