Thoughts Without A Thinker: Psychotherapy From A Buddhist Perspective - Softcover

Mark Epstein

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0465085857 ISBN 13: 9780465085859

Publisher: Basic Books, 1995

Synopsis

Traditional distinctions between matters of the mind and matters of the spirit are increasingly being questioned, and people are searching for alternate perspectives on these issues. Thoughts Without a Thinker is a major contribution to today's exploding discussion of how Eastern spirituality can enhance Western psychology. In it, Mark Epstein argues that the contemplative traditions of the East can be extremely beneficial to patients, not just in helping them recognize their problems, but by giving them the strength to heal. Clearly written and very accessible, this enlightening guide explains the unique psychological contributions of the teachings of Buddhism, describes the path of meditation in contemporary psychological language, and lays out the possibility of a meditation-inspired psychotherapy.

About this title

Review:

Drawing upon his own experience as therapist, meditator and patient, Mark Epstein, a New York-based psychiatrist trained in classical Freudian methods, attempts to integrate Western psychotherapy and the teachings of Buddhism. Repressed memories, painful emotions, narcissism and destructive energies can all be uprooted through Buddha's teaching on suffering, delusion, wisdom and non-attachment. Epstein argues that in recognizing his or her self-created mental suffering, a patient can overcome neurotic behaviors and even overcome a deeply ingrained negative sense of self.

About the Author:

Mark Epstein, M.D., a graduate of Harvard College and the Harvard Medical School, has a private practice in New York City.

About this edition

• Publisher: Basic Books
• Publication date: 1995
• ISBN 10: 0465085857
• ISBN 13: 9780465085859
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 256