Integrating Judaic and Buddhist Insights into Psychotherapy and Counseling

Though Judaism and Buddhism emerge from widely divergent metaphysical and theological backgrounds, they share eight core principles that serve important functions in counseling and psychotherapy. Both traditions value clarity of thinking; awareness of the link between rational thought and emotional well-being; appreciation of the common bond that unites mankind; the obligation to act ethically as part of a fulfilled life; the need to limit desires and attachments; the awareness of human mortality; the essential role of gratitude; and the need for self-mastery in the face of anger and other passions. These core principles can inform psychotherapy with patients who resonate with the Judaic and Buddhist traditions. However, they are broadly applicable to psychotherapy with people of any religious or non-religious background and share important features with modern-day cognitive-behavioral therapies.