Integration of the Buddhist Concept of Non-Self (Anatta) in Counselling and Psychotherapy Addressing Distress, Anxiety, and Depression: A Review
Pravacana December 31, 2025 DOI: 10.4038/p.v16i2.66 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Qualitative study Case report Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Anxiety Buddhism Depression |
| Key findings | Argues that the Buddhist non-self (anatta) concept is psychologically vital and can usefully be integrated into psychotherapy for mood, stress, and anxiety-related problems, particularly to reduce ego-centred thoughts and self-criticism and to support emotional regulation and compassion. The thematic analysis of Buddhist texts and scholarly sources yielded five themes, but reports no quantitative outcomes. |
Abstract
The non-self (anatta) concept is a distinctive and psychologically vital teaching in Buddhist philosophy. Scholars and psychotherapists working in mindfulness interventions draw on various Buddhist teachings and practices in clinical settings, and many empirical studies demonstrate their effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate the significance of integrating the non-self concept into therapeutic interventions addressing mood, stressors, and anxiety-related mental health problems. The study was conducted as a descriptive textual analysis and case study review using qualitative methods. Data collected from primary sources of Buddhist literature, secondary sources, and scholarly databases were analysed thematically, generating five major themes: The Self and the Non-self in Buddhist thought, Non-self for reduction of ego-centred thoughts and self-criticism, Emotional regulation and Strengthening of Compassion and Loving kindness, Non-self concept integrating in Psychotherapy, and Case studies from the Buddhist literature. The non-self (anatta) concept is a distinctive and psychologically vital teaching in Buddhist philosophy. Scholars and psychotherapists working in mindfulness interventions draw on various Buddhist teachings and practices in clinical settings, and many empirical studies demonstrate their effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate the significance of integrating the non-self concept into therapeutic interventions addressing mood, stressors, and anxiety-related mental health problems. The study was conducted as a descriptive textual analysis and case study review using qualitative methods. Data collected from primary sources of Buddhist literature, secondary sources, and scholarly databases were analysed thematically, generating five major themes: The Self and the Non-self in Buddhist thought, Non-self for reduction of ego-centred thoughts and self-criticism, Emotional regulation and Strengthening of Compassion and Loving kindness, Non-self concept integrating in Psychotherapy, and Case studies from the Buddhist literature.