Wisdom and Compassion in Psychotherapy (eBook)

Seamlessly edited, the book features numerous practical exercises and rich case examples. It illuminates the nature of wisdom and compassion for both therapists new to this area and those already familiar with mindfulness- and acceptance-based practices. Chapters examine whether these qualities can be measured objectively, what they look like in the therapy relationship, and how to integrate them into treatment planning and goal setting. Emphasis is given to how wisdom and compassion allow us to overcome experiential avoidance/m-/to tolerate, accept, and even grow from suffering. Effective strategies are provided for addressing specific clinical challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, suicidal behavior, couple conflict, and parenting stress. Innovative clinical techniques are described and the theory and research that support them are summarized. The book also probes the neurobiological foundations of wisdom and compassion, including compelling findings on the effects of mindfulness meditation on the brain.