Gal Szekely, Radical Acceptance: Between Buddhism and Psychotherapy

(This presentation was a part of CIIS Multiversity February 2008.)

“We have to face the pain we have been running from. In fact, we need to learn to rest in it and let its searing power transform us." -Charlotte Joko Beck.

Buddhism teaches us that our suffering is caused by not being present with whatever is. Psychotherapy claims that it is mainly the result of childhood wounding. Is there a contradiction? Through presentation, discussion, and exercise, we'll explore the place of psychotherapy in the path for spiritual liberation. We'll discuss the use of mindfulness in the therapy room as well as on the cushion.

Gal Szekely was introduced to Buddhism and meditation over eight years ago while traveling in South-East Asia. Since then, he has been passionate about exploring the intersection of spirituality and psychotherapy. He holds an MA in Social Psychology and has professional experience in coaching and consulting. He is currently a second year student in the ICP program.

Nandi Hetenyi, Rethinking Self Esteem: Deconstruction of Self-Esteem Using Buddhist Psychology and Teachings of No Self

(This presentation was a part of CIIS Mutiversity February 2008)

Aligned with the CIIS mission to integrate disciplines and also affirm spirituality, this study will focus on integrating both Western and Buddhist Psychology to shed light on self-esteem, a pervasive psychological issue in the West. Through exploring current theories of self-esteem as well as deconstructing these theories using Buddhist teachings, this presentation hopes to find a way to use self-esteem to alleviate suffering rather than contribute to it.

Nandi presented this work at the World Congress on Psychology and Spirituality in India in January of 2008.

Nandi Hetenyi is a doctoral student in Clinical Psychology at CIIS and is currently taking a year away from school. She holds an MA in Multicultural Counseling from San Diego State University. Her primary interests include Buddhist Psychology, self-esteem, trauma, multicultural issues in psychotherapy, and the self as therapist. She is a practitioner of Vajrayana Buddhism, teaches meditation and yoga, enjoys photography, traveling, and coordinates several non-profit volunteer projects.