Thoughts Without a Thinker : Psychotherapy from a Buddhist Perspective

by Epstein, Mark | Buddhist life & practice
Published 24/09/2026 by Duckworth Books (September Publishing) in the United Kingdom
Paperback | 272 pages
129 x 197 x 25mm | 246g

A revolutionary and enduring road map to a healthy emotional life.

he benefits of meditation practices like mindfulness and deep breathing are widely recognised by mainstream therapists. But what does Buddhist insight actually look like, how does it intersect with classic Western psychotherapy and what can a synthesis of both traditions offer us?In this landmark book, updated with a new preface, acclaimed psychotherapist Dr Mark Epstein lays out the path to meditation inspired healing. At the heart of Epstein’s exploration is the concept of the ‘self ’, which Buddhism exposes as an illusory construct that breeds emotional suffering. With great clarity and insight, Epstein demonstrates how Buddhism and psychotherapy can be used in powerful tandem to loosen our attachment to the self and so free ourselves to experience real joy.

‘A groundbreaking work… The book will take its place among the classics of the literature of meditation’ Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Full Catastrophe Living'One of the most sophisticated integrations of the therapeutic and spiritual disciplines' Daniel Goleman, New York Times