Bugental believes that each of us has a great deal more potential than we utilize, and he aims to help his clients live out their potential more fully, focusing almost exclusively on the client’s experience in the present moment. In this video, Bugental helps an African-American client let down the walls that keep her in constant survival mode. He gently and persistently brings attention to her implicit emotional cues, including snide laughs and hidden self insults, ultimately bringing to light her impulsive self-judgment, which covers up the “hurt under the mountain.” Through Bugental’s guidance she is able to stay with her feelings in the moment—a feat she admits she never allows herself on her own. Discussions before and after the session elucidate his approach.

See why Bugental is considered by many to be one of the most talented therapists of all time. Decades before mindfulness became a buzzword in our field, he was passionately advocating for the importance of client and therapist presence. He is a master at engaging clients, helping them to explore their utmost concerns in a way that feels truly alive, and challenging their resistance in a tactful but forceful way. Any serious student or practitioner of the art of psychotherapy be enriched by watching his work.