Buddhist Therapists in Baltimore, MD
At Psychodynamic Perspectives we have a Buddhist philosophy toward treatment.
We specialize in trauma, healthy boundary setting and attachment disorders. There are over 200 different modalities or ways of doing therapy. Part of our role as a therapist is to help you find the modality that works best for you.
At Psychodynamic Perspectives we have a Buddhist philosophy toward treatment.
We specialize in trauma, healthy boundary setting and attachment disorders. There are over 200 different modalities or ways of doing therapy. Part of our role as a therapist is to help you find the modality that works best for you.
Many of my clients have been looking specifically for a therapist who is Buddhist-informed and practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
There is meaning in the muck of life. That is the only place you will find it. Once you realize that looking for the "escape hatch" isn't going to work, you are ready to work with your life, not against it. These days, it seems like many of the things that we have taken for granted are proving to be unstable. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, and frustrated, you aren't alone. You aren't "doing it wrong". We all need help. No one gets "extra points" for getting through life with the least amount of support. I would love to chat with you about your hopes and fears and to begin finding a better way through the muck.
Many of my clients have been looking specifically for a therapist who is Buddhist-informed and practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
There is meaning in the muck of life. That is the only place you will find it. Once you realize that looking for the "escape hatch" isn't going to work, you are ready to work with your life, not against it. These days, it seems like many of the things that we have taken for granted are proving to be unstable. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, and frustrated, you aren't alone. You aren't "doing it wrong". We all need help. No one gets "extra points" for getting through life with the least amount of support. I would love to chat with you about your hopes and fears and to begin finding a better way through the muck.
My approach joins the wisdom and skillful means of Buddhist and Western Psychology.
We all suffer, but most suffering is not necessary. We develop habits to cope with suffering, but then find we are stuck repeating patterns that no longer serve us. Creating a safe, stable, and trusting environment, we can non-judgementally perceive where we are stuck and have the courage to let go of unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We are then able to grow in new ways that allow for gentleness, peace, and joy.
My approach joins the wisdom and skillful means of Buddhist and Western Psychology.
We all suffer, but most suffering is not necessary. We develop habits to cope with suffering, but then find we are stuck repeating patterns that no longer serve us. Creating a safe, stable, and trusting environment, we can non-judgementally perceive where we are stuck and have the courage to let go of unhealthy thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We are then able to grow in new ways that allow for gentleness, peace, and joy.
James Cole Abrams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, CMIT
9 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
I combine Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices with motivational interviewing and existential therapeutic techniques to help my clients tap into their inner strengths.
Substance abuse is not a problem, it's a symptom. Many of us carry a deep pain within, and work to hide it behind substance and behavioral addictions. Often what looks like selfish or harmful behavior is really just a person's best effort at dealing with the pain, frustration, and disconnection they feel every day. As a therapist, my aim is to provide the warmth, stability, and emotional space for you to safely and effectively explore what you need in order to grow into who you know you can be.
I combine Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices with motivational interviewing and existential therapeutic techniques to help my clients tap into their inner strengths.
Substance abuse is not a problem, it's a symptom. Many of us carry a deep pain within, and work to hide it behind substance and behavioral addictions. Often what looks like selfish or harmful behavior is really just a person's best effort at dealing with the pain, frustration, and disconnection they feel every day. As a therapist, my aim is to provide the warmth, stability, and emotional space for you to safely and effectively explore what you need in order to grow into who you know you can be.
In my work, I primarily integrate research-informed cognitive behavioral therapy and Buddhist Psychology, which includes Mindfulness practices.
You’re tired of wondering what you should do in your life or relationships. You’re tired of dismissing your own feelings and needs; but you feel anxious and guilty if you do what you want. If you have a history of being told you shouldn't feel what you feel, it can automatically trigger anxiety when you don't want to do what others expect of you.
Important life decisions can feel next to impossible, and you may put up with relationship challenges far too long. You start to feel resentful or trapped; or you may spend so much time in your head because you’re not sure what you want for yourself.
In my work, I primarily integrate research-informed cognitive behavioral therapy and Buddhist Psychology, which includes Mindfulness practices.
You’re tired of wondering what you should do in your life or relationships. You’re tired of dismissing your own feelings and needs; but you feel anxious and guilty if you do what you want. If you have a history of being told you shouldn't feel what you feel, it can automatically trigger anxiety when you don't want to do what others expect of you.
Important life decisions can feel next to impossible, and you may put up with relationship challenges far too long. You start to feel resentful or trapped; or you may spend so much time in your head because you’re not sure what you want for yourself.
In my own mindfulness practice, I draw from Buddhist and Quaker traditions.
Are you struggling with rumination, obsessive thinking, or overwhelming anxiety? Are your intense emotions and impulsive behaviors in the driver's seat? Not sure how to describe what's going on, but feel you're ready to change? I'm passionate about getting evidence-based psychotherapy to my clients in a way that's timely, identity-affirming, and culturally sensitive. I provide comprehensive support to individuals struggling with self-harm, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and emotion dysregulation. I also work with those struggling with depression, health anxiety, climate anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
In my own mindfulness practice, I draw from Buddhist and Quaker traditions.
Are you struggling with rumination, obsessive thinking, or overwhelming anxiety? Are your intense emotions and impulsive behaviors in the driver's seat? Not sure how to describe what's going on, but feel you're ready to change? I'm passionate about getting evidence-based psychotherapy to my clients in a way that's timely, identity-affirming, and culturally sensitive. I provide comprehensive support to individuals struggling with self-harm, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and emotion dysregulation. I also work with those struggling with depression, health anxiety, climate anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I utilize Western, more traditional modalities to address anxiety and depression, as well as Buddhist concepts and approaches to dive into topics such as lack of direction, struggling with overwhelming emotions, and creating an internal sense of calm and peace, regardless of what is happening in your family, at work, or in romantic relationships.
I believe in your knowledge, insight and wisdom. I'm here to ask the right questions--to help you to hone in on your core values, priorities, tender spots and dreams for the future. I provide structure, feedback, and help to hold you accountable for creating the change you want to see in your life.
I utilize Western, more traditional modalities to address anxiety and depression, as well as Buddhist concepts and approaches to dive into topics such as lack of direction, struggling with overwhelming emotions, and creating an internal sense of calm and peace, regardless of what is happening in your family, at work, or in romantic relationships.
I believe in your knowledge, insight and wisdom. I'm here to ask the right questions--to help you to hone in on your core values, priorities, tender spots and dreams for the future. I provide structure, feedback, and help to hold you accountable for creating the change you want to see in your life.
Clients who benefit from working with me are navigating complex intersections of identity, trauma, and societal pressures. They seek a therapist who understands marginalization and offers holistic healing. They aim to cultivate radical self-love while dismantling internalized oppression. They desire practical tools for nervous system regulation, strategies for navigating systemic barriers, and a safe space to explore their full identity. They're ready to embrace their power, viewing healing as both personal and political.
Clients who benefit from working with me are navigating complex intersections of identity, trauma, and societal pressures. They seek a therapist who understands marginalization and offers holistic healing. They aim to cultivate radical self-love while dismantling internalized oppression. They desire practical tools for nervous system regulation, strategies for navigating systemic barriers, and a safe space to explore their full identity. They're ready to embrace their power, viewing healing as both personal and political.
Many of us struggle with responding in over-learned, automatic ways to the challenges we face, even when the ways we automatically respond are ultimately self-defeating, if not downright self-destructive. Are you feeling stuck? Do you keep doing the same thing, even though you “know” better? Do you keep finding yourself in similarly disappointing relationships? I believe in every person’s capacity to achieve wellness and meaning, no matter how dark things seem in this moment. If you're seeking a deeply caring, sensitive, and validating relationship with a therapist who is willing to challenge you to be your best self, let's chat!
Many of us struggle with responding in over-learned, automatic ways to the challenges we face, even when the ways we automatically respond are ultimately self-defeating, if not downright self-destructive. Are you feeling stuck? Do you keep doing the same thing, even though you “know” better? Do you keep finding yourself in similarly disappointing relationships? I believe in every person’s capacity to achieve wellness and meaning, no matter how dark things seem in this moment. If you're seeking a deeply caring, sensitive, and validating relationship with a therapist who is willing to challenge you to be your best self, let's chat!
Currently accepting patients for Telehealth sessions and remote EMDR. I've been blessed to be able to work in this field for over the last 27 years, 18 as a psychotherapist. Over that time I've been able to work with a myriad amount of problems, ranging from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD in both adults and children, as well as work with families in distress. I personally take great enjoyment in working with people with anxiety based difficulties and trauma, having had the greatest success with this population.
Currently accepting patients for Telehealth sessions and remote EMDR. I've been blessed to be able to work in this field for over the last 27 years, 18 as a psychotherapist. Over that time I've been able to work with a myriad amount of problems, ranging from anxiety, depression, substance abuse, ADHD in both adults and children, as well as work with families in distress. I personally take great enjoyment in working with people with anxiety based difficulties and trauma, having had the greatest success with this population.
Beneath all of our disappointments, losses, and heartbreaks, we all want to be valued for who we are, accepted for how we feel, and respected for what we think. I will encourage you to cultivate present moment awareness and self-compassion for the painful difficulties, challenging life circumstances, and to the inner narrative that keeps you stuck in habitual patterns of reacting. While fear and doubt may obscure your perspective, we will work together to help you develop strength-based skills and capacities for moving through challenges. I will help you access your inner wisdom for cultivating trust, balance, clarity, & connection.
Beneath all of our disappointments, losses, and heartbreaks, we all want to be valued for who we are, accepted for how we feel, and respected for what we think. I will encourage you to cultivate present moment awareness and self-compassion for the painful difficulties, challenging life circumstances, and to the inner narrative that keeps you stuck in habitual patterns of reacting. While fear and doubt may obscure your perspective, we will work together to help you develop strength-based skills and capacities for moving through challenges. I will help you access your inner wisdom for cultivating trust, balance, clarity, & connection.
Current Virtual Openings. Whether you're trying to resolve life-long trauma or just need support getting through a difficult time, I have almost 25 years of experience helping people make positive and lasting changes in their lives. I also know from experience how difficult it can be to make this step. So I'm happy to do a 15-20 minute virtual meeting to help you see if we feel like a good fit. I'm especially effective in helping clients overcome trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions and relationship challenges.
Current Virtual Openings. Whether you're trying to resolve life-long trauma or just need support getting through a difficult time, I have almost 25 years of experience helping people make positive and lasting changes in their lives. I also know from experience how difficult it can be to make this step. So I'm happy to do a 15-20 minute virtual meeting to help you see if we feel like a good fit. I'm especially effective in helping clients overcome trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions and relationship challenges.
Hello, I’m John Gingrich MCPAT, LGPC. My practice is devoted to helping people transform their state of mind and create beautiful lives for themselves. Therapy with me is tailored specifically for each one of my clients based on their unique needs. As a counselor and art therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. I have experience working with children and youth, individuals in government, neurodiverse people and working professionals. Currently, I'm offering remote sessions for clients who are based out of Maryland.
Hello, I’m John Gingrich MCPAT, LGPC. My practice is devoted to helping people transform their state of mind and create beautiful lives for themselves. Therapy with me is tailored specifically for each one of my clients based on their unique needs. As a counselor and art therapist, I bring a unique approach to the therapy process. I have experience working with children and youth, individuals in government, neurodiverse people and working professionals. Currently, I'm offering remote sessions for clients who are based out of Maryland.
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and starts with person-centered seeking and listening: to learn about you fully and get a sense of your strengths, struggles, beliefs, and ways of being that no longer support you so you can move forward, grow and heal. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you make contact with your truest Self and allow you to bring acceptance towards troubling thoughts and emotions rather than struggling against them. We will also use Internal Family Systems (IFS) in tandem to help you bring compassion, healing and understanding to the parts of you that need attention and care.
My approach to therapy is trauma-informed and starts with person-centered seeking and listening: to learn about you fully and get a sense of your strengths, struggles, beliefs, and ways of being that no longer support you so you can move forward, grow and heal. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you make contact with your truest Self and allow you to bring acceptance towards troubling thoughts and emotions rather than struggling against them. We will also use Internal Family Systems (IFS) in tandem to help you bring compassion, healing and understanding to the parts of you that need attention and care.
Therapy intensives, online, with a licensed psychologist. Feeling overwhelmed? Is weekly treatment moving to slowly? Are you ready to take a deep dive into a core issue or traumatic event? Try a 1, 2, or 3-day intensive. Somatic-focused IFS and EMDR: 3, 6, or 9 hours of condensed treatment time designed just for you. Your intensive can focus on: the overwhelm-avoid cycle, people pleasing, boundary setting. Shame & self-blame, perfectionism, finding your authentic self. And more! Reach out today
Therapy intensives, online, with a licensed psychologist. Feeling overwhelmed? Is weekly treatment moving to slowly? Are you ready to take a deep dive into a core issue or traumatic event? Try a 1, 2, or 3-day intensive. Somatic-focused IFS and EMDR: 3, 6, or 9 hours of condensed treatment time designed just for you. Your intensive can focus on: the overwhelm-avoid cycle, people pleasing, boundary setting. Shame & self-blame, perfectionism, finding your authentic self. And more! Reach out today
It takes community and connection to promote healing. With choice comes power and self-empowerment. Especially for trans, gender nonconforming folx, anyone who identifies under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, and neurodivergent folx, the system doesn't feel made for us and choice feels limited. If you are looking for support exploring your issues in a compassionate and warm space, I truly believe even under systems of oppression, you can contact ways of thriving, finding and maintaining meaningful relationships with loved ones, and most importantly, with yourself. Let's talk, cook, write, dance, breathe/cry about it! It's all meaningful!
It takes community and connection to promote healing. With choice comes power and self-empowerment. Especially for trans, gender nonconforming folx, anyone who identifies under the LGBTQIA+ umbrella, and neurodivergent folx, the system doesn't feel made for us and choice feels limited. If you are looking for support exploring your issues in a compassionate and warm space, I truly believe even under systems of oppression, you can contact ways of thriving, finding and maintaining meaningful relationships with loved ones, and most importantly, with yourself. Let's talk, cook, write, dance, breathe/cry about it! It's all meaningful!
I have often likened trauma to a thief, and trauma therapy to a Robin-Hood like act of stealing back, a reclaiming of what should have never been taken. In my decade plus as a trauma therapist, I have been privileged to accompany my clients as a partner and sometimes guide in these acts of reclaiming, and have had the joy of witnessing the profound healing that can arise from courageous confrontations with the truth. My aim is to help clients to hold themselves with more self-compassion, to stop being caught in cycles of reliving past memories and adaptation patterns, and to shift out of survival mode into present moment aliveness.
I have often likened trauma to a thief, and trauma therapy to a Robin-Hood like act of stealing back, a reclaiming of what should have never been taken. In my decade plus as a trauma therapist, I have been privileged to accompany my clients as a partner and sometimes guide in these acts of reclaiming, and have had the joy of witnessing the profound healing that can arise from courageous confrontations with the truth. My aim is to help clients to hold themselves with more self-compassion, to stop being caught in cycles of reliving past memories and adaptation patterns, and to shift out of survival mode into present moment aliveness.
Tired of the overthink-overwhelm-avoid cycle? Leave behind those exhausting old patterns as we go beyond talk therapy and skills training. We'll work to gently release you from the early pain beneath your symptoms, using modalities that include somatic therapy, IFS, DBR, and EMDR.
If you're Out-of-Network (OON) and curious about reimbursement, use the link on my website home page to estimate your session cost after reimbursement.
Tired of the overthink-overwhelm-avoid cycle? Leave behind those exhausting old patterns as we go beyond talk therapy and skills training. We'll work to gently release you from the early pain beneath your symptoms, using modalities that include somatic therapy, IFS, DBR, and EMDR.
If you're Out-of-Network (OON) and curious about reimbursement, use the link on my website home page to estimate your session cost after reimbursement.
You're living in survival mode - and you're over it. Work, bills, family, relationships, systemic oppression, and trying to live with authenticity amidst it all - it's too much! You feel overwhelmed, burned out, numb, and totally alone. If this sounds like you - I assure you, you are not alone. In our chaotic and unjust world, many of us live on high alert, disconnected from our bodies, our true selves, and each other. I can help you with powerful techniques to reduce the impacts of chronic stress on the mind, body, and relationships, so you can tap into joy, connection, and balance. In short, the happy and authentic life you want!
You're living in survival mode - and you're over it. Work, bills, family, relationships, systemic oppression, and trying to live with authenticity amidst it all - it's too much! You feel overwhelmed, burned out, numb, and totally alone. If this sounds like you - I assure you, you are not alone. In our chaotic and unjust world, many of us live on high alert, disconnected from our bodies, our true selves, and each other. I can help you with powerful techniques to reduce the impacts of chronic stress on the mind, body, and relationships, so you can tap into joy, connection, and balance. In short, the happy and authentic life you want!
Do you often feel stuck in repetitive thought patterns or behaviors? Are you often anxious, nervous, reactive or frozen/unable to make changes that allow you to be more present to yourself and your life? I offer a safe and nurturing space for those seeking to understand and integrate the symptoms of heightened stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery. I strive to help my clients understand the effects trauma and stress can have on the mind and body. We work together to help you recover from past and present difficult experiences to find more meaning, sense of contentment, and ability to create the life that you are seeking.
Do you often feel stuck in repetitive thought patterns or behaviors? Are you often anxious, nervous, reactive or frozen/unable to make changes that allow you to be more present to yourself and your life? I offer a safe and nurturing space for those seeking to understand and integrate the symptoms of heightened stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma recovery. I strive to help my clients understand the effects trauma and stress can have on the mind and body. We work together to help you recover from past and present difficult experiences to find more meaning, sense of contentment, and ability to create the life that you are seeking.
See more therapy options for Baltimore
Nearby Buddhist Therapists Searches for Baltimore
See More Buddhist TherapistsNearby Searches for Baltimore
- Arbutus
- Catonsville
- Clifton
- Eudowood
- Govans
- Gwynn Oak
- Halethorpe
- Mount Washington
- Roland Park
- Ruxton
- Towson
- Woodlawn
Buddhist Therapists
Is buddhism beneficial for mental health?
While Buddhism itself is not a treatment for mental health conditions, its practices can greatly enhance mental well-being by introducing coping skills and ideas that promote overall wellness. Key Buddhist practices, such as mindfulness, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma. Moreover, Buddhism's focus on self-compassion, non-judgment, and acceptance can benefit individuals with particularly negative or self-critical thought patterns.
What are the concepts and principles of buddhism as a therapeutic approach?
Core Buddhist principles are often used in therapy to help clients gain insight into their thoughts and emotions. Concepts such as suffering (dukkha) and impermanence (anicca) are applied to help clients recognize that common forms of suffering, like repetitive negative thought patterns, can be accepted and viewed as impermanent. The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are additional core concepts utilized frequently in Buddhist therapy sessions. The Four Noble Truths highlight the existence of suffering as an inherent part of the human experience—an insight frequently used to move clients toward greater acceptance. The Eightfold Path, which includes right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right concentration, and right mindfulness, offers practical skills to alleviate suffering.
What is the buddhist approach and practice during a therapy session?
Therapists informed by Buddhist principles often integrate mindfulness and meditation practices into therapy sessions to help clients cultivate greater acceptance, compassion, and non-judgment toward themselves and others. Typically, Buddhist therapists guide clients through mindfulness exercises, such as breathing exercises or body scans, and encourage them to practice similar exercises outside of sessions. Additionally, many Buddhist therapists utilize elements of Positive Psychology or Compassion-Focused Therapy, which can help reduce symptoms of self-criticism and shame common among clients with various mental health conditions. In general, Buddhist therapists strive to embody the compassion and non-judgmental approach they promote, often incorporating exercises aimed at developing compassion in session, such as loving-kindness meditation (Metta).
Is mindfulness the same as buddhism in the context of therapy?
While Buddhist therapists frequently integrate mindfulness practices into therapy sessions, the terms mindfulness and Buddhism are not synonymous in the context of therapy. Therapists may use mindfulness techniques, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) or Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), without identifying as a Buddhist therapist. In contrast, those practicing within a Buddhist belief framework typically encourage mindfulness therapies, in addition to foundational Buddhist beliefs, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These therapists may also guide clients toward a deeper understanding of Buddhist philosophy, unlike those who use Buddhist mindfulness principles without the broader spiritual context.