Applied Buddhist Psychology 1: Entering the Stream
Applied Buddhist Psychology 1: Entering the Stream
Buddhism offers a profound path of self-reflection and transformation, inviting us to explore the nature of reality and the inner workings of the mind. Far more than a religion, Buddhism is also a science and philosophy—providing timeless frameworks for understanding the psyche and offering practical tools for navigating the complexities of human experience. In this workshop, we explore essential Buddhist teachings and meditation practices that foster inner peace, self-acceptance, and the ability to embody these principles in everyday life.
Drawing from classical texts and contemporary perspectives, we examine foundational principles such as the Four Noble Truths, karma, dharma, interdependence, emptiness, and Buddha Nature. These teachings are not approached as abstract ideas, but as living practices that can transform unconscious patterns and open the door to a more integrated and whole way of being. Particular attention is given to the Three Jewels and the act of taking refuge—not only as a spiritual commitment, but as a powerful psychological orientation that redefines how we relate to ourselves and to life.
Through guided meditation and inquiry, students will learn to apply these teachings in practical and personal ways. The course also offers a Buddhist lens through which to view the Western psyche, illuminating how deeply rooted patterns of suffering can shift through insight and compassion. Counseling professionals will find the material especially valuable for supporting clients in accessing inner resources and cultivating lasting transformation. This course is open to all—whether you are new to Buddhist practice or seeking to deepen an existing path.
What You’ll Experience:
• A practical introduction to core Buddhist teachings—including the Four Noble Truths, the Three Jewels, karma, interdependence, impermanence, refuge, and Buddha Nature—with a focus on their application in healing psychological imbalances.
• Guided instruction in samatha (calm-abiding) meditation and support in establishing a consistent personal practice
• Opportunities to engage in inquiry and receive guidance around challenges and insights that arise in meditation
• A deeper understanding of how Buddhist perspectives can illuminate the Western psyche and offer tools for transforming unconscious patterns
• Insight into how the act of taking refuge functions as a powerful psychological orientation
• Integration of Buddhist frameworks into personal development and therapeutic work, especially for counseling professionals supporting others on a healing path
This course consists of:
• 5 recorded video lectures (approx. 3.5 hours)
• 2 two-hour live class meetings with Q&A
• Several meditations
• Peer sharing and reflection exercises
• Recommended reading and handout materials
What People Are Saying:
“Applied Buddhist Psychology 1: Entering the Stream is a revelatory and immersive experience that offers participants direct encounter with traditional Buddhist wisdom and insight. As a long-time student of Buddhist teachings and Buddhist Psychology, I have studied with many teachers over the years, and I am deeply impressed by how accessible, down-to-earth, and yet profoundly transformative this presentation of the teachings is. This class is not only for beginners but also deeply enriching for those with years of meditation practice, study, or academic backgrounds in Buddhist or contemplative traditions. Isa Gucciardi’s teaching style is unique and generous and grounded with compassionate intelligence.” – Susannah C.
“This class has been life changing for me. The tools I have been given allow me to navigate the world with more stability and presence. I have been given a gift that I will be eternally grateful for.” – Ellin W.
“It is spectacular how Isa’s weave so many beautiful practices together in the Applied Buddhist Psychology classes. I feel fortunate to have her as a teacher and am grateful for the depth of her heart, insights, and teachings” – Michelle N.
“This class was very helpful for me in understanding how to meet troubling situations in an effective and non-reactive manner. The perspectives illuminated truly help bring Buddhist understandings into a workable everyday context for Buddhist practitioners and non-practitioners alike. This kind of teaching is very hard to come by. Thank you, Isa!” – Joanna A., PsyD
“I stumbled upon your Applied Buddhist Psychology workshops through an article in Tricycle magazine. They are wonderful. I’ve been struggling within my own Buddhist education and this course really put things in perspective for me. Thanks for being there with your knowledge.” – Michael M.
The Sacred Stream has provided high quality education for over twenty years. Each course we offer provides easy to use portal pages, support staff, and support materials. Classes are offered with both online and in person options that are expertly managed to offer the best experience possible for students.
Instructor:
Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D. is a renowned teacher and practitioner whose work bridges ancient wisdom traditions and modern therapeutic practices. She is the creator of Depth Hypnosis™, a groundbreaking model that combines elements of shamanism, Buddhism, energy medicine, hypnosis, and transpersonal psychology. Widely respected by clinicians and spiritual counselors alike, Depth Hypnosis offers a powerful path to healing and self-discovery and has helped thousands of people live happier, more fulfilling lives.
Holding advanced degrees in cultural and linguistic anthropology, comparative religion, and transpersonal psychology, Isa has spent over thirty years studying and practicing spiritual, meditative, and healing traditions from around the world. A pioneer in bringing shamanic and Buddhist principles into clinical contexts, she also developed Coming to Peace™, an innovative conflict resolution process inspired in part by indigenous peacemaking practices from Hawaii, Africa, and North America.
A longtime Buddhist practitioner, Isa developed the Sacred Stream’s Applied Buddhist Psychology program to help students integrate core principles of Buddhist philosophy into their personal lives and professional practice. She has co-taught with renowned Buddhist teachers, including Robert Thurman, Thupten Jinpa, and Khensur Rinpoche Thupten Tenzin, the Abbot of Gyuto Monastery in Dharamsala.
An accomplished author of three books, Isa speaks six languages and teaches and lectures worldwide.
Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D.
