In the bustling urban environment of Hong Kong, the significance of mental wellbeing has become increasingly prominent amid the pressures of daily life. Two innovative programs, led by the Centre of Buddhist Studies (CBS) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Awareness Spiritual Growth Centre (ASGC), with support from The D. H. Chen Foundation, aptly address the gaps in mental health services, aiming to transform mental health care through the lens of Buddhist counselling.

On a mission to elevate the standards of Buddhist teaching-based counselling in Hong Kong, the Foundation has supported CBS to launch the Master of Buddhist Counselling Program (MBC).  Since 2018, this pioneering program is the first of its kind in Asia, designed to ensure high-quality Buddhist counselling services, and to train compassion and competent practitioners across various caregiving professions. The MBC curriculum is comprehensive, catering to healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement personnel, and anyone interested in the principles of Buddhist counselling for personal growth.

In 2023, ASGC, with support from the Foundation, introduced the Buddhist Counselling Services Program, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at addressing the increasing mental health challenges faced by Hong Kong residents. This program seeks to provide accessible and professional mental health support to the community, with a goal of benefiting at least 150 individuals through 1,500 sessions in its inaugural year.

Beyond immediate assistance, the ASGC program also looks to establish a sustainable framework for the development of professional Buddhist counselling services. By laying this strong foundation for mental health support, ASGC seeks to meet a range of community needs, fostering resilience, wellbeing, and innovative solutions to mental health issues.

The integration of the MBC program and ASGC’s Buddhist Counselling Services Program creates a comprehensive pathway for aspiring Buddhist counsellors in Hong Kong. Graduates of the MBC program can further their skills through the Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice of Buddhist Counselling (PGDBC), and eventually register as Enrolled Counsellors under The Hong Kong Buddhist Association. This structured progression empowers individuals to deliver professional counselling services, bridging gaps in mental health support and providing spiritual support across various community sectors.

Through the collaborative efforts of CBS, ASGC, and the Foundation, a transformative journey is underway, characterized by a shared vision of promoting mental wellness, resilience, and compassionate care through the integration of Buddhist principles into counselling practices. The collaboration between academia and community initiatives promises to foster holistic wellbeing, empowerment, and a culture of wellness and compassion that resonates with individuals across the territory.