Cultivating Attention: The Heart of Therapeutic Transformation

Attention is one of our most potent resources, yet it is often under-appreciated.

As psychologists know, attention can be the difference between success and stagnation, both in our personal growth and in facilitating the development of our clients. Harnessing the power of attention, especially through mindfulness, is essential for enhancing professional performance and personal well-being. It is a tool that can make us feel more competent and capable in our roles.

In recent years, mindfulness and acceptance-based therapies have emerged as crucial tools in our therapeutic toolkit, especially for addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Techniques like acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) underscore the importance of being present and accepting one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment.

At its core, mindfulness is paying attention to the present moment without getting caught up in distractions. This practice aligns seamlessly with our therapeutic goals, encouraging clients to observe their emotions and thoughts without becoming overwhelmed.

As Joseph Goldstein, a leading figure in contemporary Buddhism, wisely states, “Freedom means letting go of suffering.” Mindfulness can empower clients to manage negative emotions by shifting their relationship with those feelings rather than attempting to eliminate them.

For example, when working with a client struggling with anxiety, we might encourage them to simply notice their anxious thoughts without judgment, allowing that anxiety to pass naturally instead of escalating into panic. This acceptance fosters greater emotional regulation and resilience.

ACT and Psychological Flexibility

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a widely utilized approach that beautifully integrates mindfulness. ACT teaches clients to accept their inner experiences instead of avoiding them, encouraging them to commit to actions that align with their core values.

The central aim is cultivating psychological flexibility—being present, open, and engaged in life, even amidst difficult thoughts and feelings. Rollo May, a key figure in existential psychology, captures this essence succinctly: “Human freedom involves our ability to pause between stimulus and response and, in that pause, to choose the response we wish to make.” In our work, this pause—this mindfulness—gives clients the power to act deliberately rather than react impulsively to their emotions.

For us as therapists, practicing mindfulness can significantly enhance our therapeutic relationships. By cultivating mindfulness, we become more centered and less reactive during sessions, allowing us to create a grounded presence that clients find supportive. Incorporating mindfulness exercises into therapy can also help clients develop emotional resilience. By teaching them to notice their thoughts without getting swept away by them, we empower our clients to take control of their emotional well-being.

Philosophy and Psychology

Philosophy and psychology are often intertwined, particularly when navigating the ethical dimensions of life. As psychologists, we frequently help clients explore meaning, purpose, and ethics questions. One profound contribution from philosophy to our field is the concept of ethical attention, explored by thinkers like Gilles Deleuze and Iris Murdoch.

Gilles Deleuze famously wrote, “To be worthy of what happens to us.” This idea challenges both therapists and clients to embrace their experiences—even the painful ones—as opportunities for growth and transformation. This means guiding clients to shift their focus from victimhood or passivity to empowerment and agency.

Attention plays a crucial role in this ethical stance. By paying close attention to their experiences, clients can uncover the deeper meanings behind what happens to them and respond in ways that resonate with their values. This process of ethical attention empowers clients to break free from habitual patterns, approaching their lives with curiosity and intention.

Attention Essential Reads

Why We Should Experience "Soft Fascination"

When We Talk, This Is Where We Look

Philosopher Iris Murdoch’s concept of “unselfing” is also incredibly relevant to our work. She argued that by giving full attention to others, we transcend our ego-driven concerns and connect with the deeper realities of others’ experiences. This is especially vital in therapy, where our ability to be present for clients—free from personal biases or agendas—can lead to profound healing.

Murdoch writes: “In the moral life, the enemy is the fat relentless ego.” This is equally true in therapy for both us and our clients. Our capacity to “unself” and focus entirely on our clients fosters greater trust and openness, creating a secure space for healing. Meanwhile, our clients can learn to shift their focus away from self-absorbed worries and toward a more expansive, compassionate view of their lives.

Practical Application for Psychologists

Incorporating ethical attention into our therapy means helping clients cultivate mindfulness—not only of their thoughts and emotions but also of the broader context of their lives. We can guide them toward a deeper understanding of their values, helping them lead meaningful and authentic lives. Additionally, we can model ethical attention by remaining fully present during sessions, listening deeply, and responding with empathy. This creates a safe environment for clients to explore complex topics and reflect on how they wish to live their lives