Integration of the Buddhist Concept of Mindfulness into Counselling; Experiences of Counsellors

Abstract:

Mindfulness has become an exponentially increasing concept worldwide as a means of self-actualization and for therapeutic purposes with special attention on mindfulness-based interventions. The Buddhist Concept of Mindfulness (BCM) is also used extensively in counselling and psychotherapy. The study aims at exploring the essence of lived experiences of counsellors who integrate BCM into counselling within the Sri Lankan context. The study followed phenomenological approach in qualitative research framework. The sample included fifteen (15) Buddhist counsellors, who integrate BCM into counselling.  Purposive and snowball methods were used as means of sampling. Data was collected through open-ended face-to-face interviews followed by thematic analysis. Findings suggested cognitive change for Right Vision was a prerequisite for Right Mindfulness through realizing trilaksana. Thus, integration of BCM into counselling showed to be more effective with long lasting results. Potential implications and directions for further studies on mindfulness were addressed.