About

About Anatta

Anatta, a fundamental concept in Buddhist philosophy, holds significant utility in psychology, offering profound insights into the nature of the self and its implications for mental health and well-being.

Understanding Anatta

Anatta, often translated as "non-self" or "egolessness," challenges the conventional notion of a fixed, inherent self. Instead, it posits that the self is impermanent, interdependent, and devoid of an enduring essence. This concept suggests that our sense of identity is fluid and contingent upon various factors, including thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and experiences.

Utility in Psychology

• Ego Dissolution: Anatta provides a framework for understanding and experiencing ego dissolution, wherein individuals transcend the illusion of a separate self. This process, often facilitated through meditation, can lead to profound states of unity, interconnectedness, and psychological well-being.

• Reduced Attachment and Suffering: By recognizing the transient nature of the self, individuals may cultivate greater resilience and reduce attachment to self-centered desires and aversions. This shift in perspective can alleviate psychological suffering associated with egoic concerns, such as comparison, fear of failure, and existential angst.

• Mindfulness Practice: Anatta informs mindfulness practices, which encourage non-judgmental awareness of present-moment experiences. By observing thoughts, emotions, and sensations without identification or attachment, individuals can develop greater clarity, equanimity, and psychological flexibility.

• Interpersonal Relationships: Anatta fosters empathy, compassion, and authentic connection in interpersonal relationships. By acknowledging the inherent impermanence and interconnectedness of all beings, individuals may cultivate deeper empathy and understanding, leading to more harmonious and fulfilling relationships.

• Integration with Western Psychology: Anatta complements Western psychological approaches, such as existential psychology, humanistic psychology, and transpersonal psychology. It offers a unique perspective on self-transcendence, meaning-making, and existential fulfillment, enriching therapeutic interventions and promoting holistic well-being.

Incorporating the concept of Anatta into psychology enhances our understanding of the self, consciousness, and human flourishing. By embracing egolessness, individuals can transcend suffering, cultivate inner peace, and awaken to the interconnectedness of all life. Anatta thus offers invaluable insights and practices for promoting psychological resilience, authenticity, and well-being in today's complex world.

About Me,

I sought out a career in psychology after working closely with severe forms of suffering in my experience working as case manager in the Skid Row area of Downtown Los Angeles. It was there I learned the value of a compassionate presence in the reduction of suffering. My experience from those days inspired value informed career where I hope do my part in the reduction of suffering in our world. My path lead to me enroll in a Psychology Program at University of the West, a Buddhist oriented private school in Rosemead, California. 

The course of my career so far has been quite dynamic, I've worked as a substance abuse counselor, and therapist for at risk teens, and I've also worked in a psychiatric hospital. I have worked with people from all walks of life, all of which have taught me important lessons a long the way.

Currently, in addition to private practice, I also teach "Buddhist inspired evidenced practice" and "Eastern and Western Perspectives on Addiction" at  University of the West. 

When I'm not fully immersed in the field of psychology in one capacity or another, I can be found playing music. I absolutely love playing piano, and am constantly challenging myself to learn other instruments, and new genres.