Buddhist Philosophy & Psychology for Existential Therapists – Workshop 2 – Dr. Chris Goto-Jones – Thursday 26th of January @ 7 pm – 9 pm

Buddhist Philosophy & Psychology for Existential Therapists

Presented by Dr. Chris Goto-Jones

What will the talk/presentation be about? and why is this topic particularly
meaningful/interesting to you?

Most therapists today are aware of the so-called ‘mindfulness movement,’ yet some are left
dissatisfied by the instrumental and protocol-driven nature of the therapies associated with it.
Existential therapists in particular ask different questions and demand different answers from
Buddhist Psychology than these simple protocols provide. In this series of three workshops,
we will explore some of the ways in which Buddhist Philosophy & Psychology can be brought
into conversation with Existential therapy in particular. Beginning with a relatively high-level
overview of the existential aspects of Buddhist philosophy, the sessions will move on to
consider how this particular approach to existentialism might be valuable and helpful in
framing/reframing therapeutic interactions and in alleviating suffering. The sessions will draw
on a mixture of texts from the Buddhist tradition as well as some case histories that illustrate
some of the principles in action.

Why is this topic important for those who are practicing or interested in existential
analysis? and how can these ideas change existential analysis for the better?

While we often think of Continental Europe as the locus of existentialism, many of the
concerns associated with that philosophical movement are also present in other traditions
around the world. In fact, twentieth century Buddhist philosophers have often looked to the
existentialists as natural conversation partners, seeing some form of kinship. At the same
time, many philosophers and therapists recognise in the 2,500-year tradition of Buddhist
theory and practice an astonishingly rich and deep reservoir of insight into the truth of human
suffering and its amelioration. Bringing these traditions into conversation can only enrich the
practice of existential analysis, as well as contribute to eroding the Euro-centricity of some
therapeutic assumptions and approaches.

Who is the talk for and what do you hope attendees will come away with?

The workshops are designed for anyone with an interest in existential analysis and therapy, t
whatever level or form of engagement. By the end of the series, participants might expect to
have a basic understanding of the contours of Buddhist philosophy & psychology, and
especially those areas that most closely touch into existential themes. In addition,
participants should gain a basic understanding of some practices that Buddhist traditions
advocate as ways to identify suffering and cause it to cease. Participants can and should
expect these workshops to be secular in content and practical in intent.

Educated in Cambridge, Keiō (Tokyo), and Oxford universities, Chris is Professor in Philosophy at the University of Victoria, where he teaches topics in Continental and Asian philosophy (especially Buddhism and Daoism). He is also honorary Professor in Asian Studies at the University of British Columbia. Outside the university, Chris is a therapist in private practice, working largely in existential and narrative modes, often integrating ideas and practices from Buddhist philosophy into his work. Holding advanced certifications in MBSR and MBCT, he has also received Buddhist training in a number of traditions, including Zen and Vipassana. For the last few years he has been teaching the award-winning MOOC, ‘De-Mystifying Mindfulness,’ for Leiden University on Coursera and Furturelearn, which has served approx. 250,000 people.

This event will take place on Zoom. A link will be sent prior to the date.

SEA members enjoy a 25% discount at checkout.

A Certificate of Attendance will be emailed to participants.

If you think you have a new and interesting topic to share with us and would like to be our next speaker please don’t hesitate to contact our events organiser on events@existentialanalysis.org.uk.