Embodied Relational Presence in Buddhist Psychology Informed Gestalt Therapy

Abstract

Buddhist psychology views and meditative practices can support and enhance therapist embodied relational presence. In this chapter, the Buddhist Psychology informed Gestalt Therapy (BPGT) approach developed by the authors is looked at through this lens. The chapter includes a brief summary of BPGT, then describes how it supports Gestalt therapy's foundational field phenomenological and dialogical work in ways that contribute to embodied relational presence. The chapter also posits possibilities for new directions to explore pointing to an expanded theoretical understanding that opens the door to innovative clinical practice.