MA in Psychology:
Contemplative Psychotherapy

“Buddhist psychology is based on the notion that human beings are fundamentally good. Their most basic qualities are positive ones: openness, intelligence and warmth.”
—Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche

The MA in Psychology: Contemplative Psychotherapy is a three-year clinical training program founded on the view that health is intrinsic and unconditional. The program is designed for students who are inspired to work in a clinical setting and who are ready for the challenging personal work that can prepare them to be fully present and available to their clients.

Many students recognize in the program the opportunity to join their personal values with their livelihood. This program combines a commitment to intensive individual self-study, an exploration of therapeutic relationships and an active engagement in community.

This intensive training is based on the study of the principles of Buddhist psychology and the individual practice of mindfulness/awareness meditation and self-study; and the interpersonal practice of small and large group process. The development and maturation of each student is a primary concern of this training experience. Clinical study and working with others naturally evolve out of this personal development and are facilitated by the training components of the program.

Upon completion of this program, graduates have a strong foundation in the principles and practices of promoting health in themselves and in therapeutic relationships and in healing environments. They are qualified to work as counselors and psychotherapists in a wide variety of settings such as community mental health centers, residential treatment facilities and social service agencies.