Karen Kissel Wegela, PhD, is a distinguished professor at Naropa University, where she has profoundly influenced the field of contemplative psychotherapy for over four decades. As a core faculty member in the MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, with a concentration in Buddhism-Informed Contemplative Counseling, Wegela has shaped the academic and professional journeys of countless students, imparting her expertise in Buddhist psychology, counseling theories, and the integration of mindfulness and compassion into therapeutic practice. Her courses, including foundational teachings in Buddhist Psychology and advanced explorations in contemplative counseling, reflect her deep commitment to blending traditional Buddhist principles with modern psychotherapeutic techniques.
Beyond her teaching, Wegela is a licensed psychologist in Colorado and a prolific author, having written three influential books on the intersection of Buddhism and psychotherapy. Her works, including What Really Helps and Contemplative Psychotherapy Essentials, have become essential reading for those seeking to enrich their therapeutic practice with Buddhist wisdom. Dr. Wegela’s contributions to Naropa extend beyond the classroom; as a former department chair and a sought-after speaker at national and international conferences, she has been instrumental in advancing the university’s mission of integrating contemplative education with professional training. Through her teaching, writing, and leadership, Karen Kissel Wegela has left an enduring legacy at Naropa and within the broader field of contemplative psychotherapy.
