Matteo Preabianca

I am delighted to have the opportunity to share a glimpse of my journey as a Buddhist counselor, working abroad, while also navigating the unique experience of being a foreigner. My name is Matteo, and I hail from the enchanting land of Italy. Currently, I reside in the United Kingdom, where I have been able to not only immerse myself in a new culture but also enrich my practice and teaching of meditation.

1. A Path of Mindfulness and Compassion: My journey in the field of Buddhist counseling has been deeply rooted in the principles of mindfulness and compassion. Drawing from the teachings of Buddhism, I approach counseling as a means to help individuals find inner peace, resilience, and understanding amidst life's challenges. The core concepts of impermanence, suffering, and interconnectedness have greatly influenced my counseling approach, enabling me to provide holistic guidance to those seeking solace and personal growth.

2. Navigating the Foreign Landscape: Having moved from the picturesque landscapes of Italy to the vibrant tapestry of the UK, I have intimately experienced the challenges and joys of being a foreigner. The journey of adaptation, learning, and integration has given me a unique perspective into the lives of those who also find themselves in unfamiliar territories. This empathy allows me to better connect with my clients who are dealing with the complexities of cultural adjustment, identity shifts, and homesickness.

3. Meditation as a Path to Inner Harmony: A significant aspect of my journey involves the practice and teaching of meditation. Meditation is a transformative tool that I incorporate into both counseling sessions and meditation classes. Through the power of mindfulness and guided introspection, I guide individuals toward a deeper understanding of themselves and their emotions. It's a journey inward that fosters self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of interconnectedness with the world around us.

4. Cultivating a Cross-Cultural Approach: Working as a Buddhist counselor in the UK, while bringing my Italian heritage and insights to the table, has allowed me to create a cross-cultural approach to counseling. This approach recognizes the universal nature of human emotions while acknowledging the unique ways in which different cultures express and process them. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, I aim to create a safe and open space for clients from various backgrounds.

In conclusion, my journey as a Buddhist counselor working abroad has been a fulfilling and enlightening experience. It has provided me with the tools to assist individuals in their pursuit of inner harmony, personal growth, and emotional well-being. Through my understanding of the foreigner's perspective, I am able to offer empathetic support to those navigating the challenges of living in a new culture. My commitment to meditation as a transformative practice further complements my counseling approach, enhancing the journey of self-discovery and emotional healing.

Thank you for your time, and I am open to any questions you may have.

Yoga and Meditation Teacher Zhengjiang University, Hangzhou, China 2018 - 2020

• Led meditation and yoga classes for students, faculty, and staff.
• Created tailored programs for stress relief and mental wellness.
• Collaborated with wellness initiatives to promote holistic health.

Yoga and Meditation Teacher Various Locations, Worldwide 2013 - 2018

• Conducted classes in Mexico, Russia, and Italy, sharing diverse cultural perspectives.
• Designed and implemented holistic wellbeing programs for local communities.
• Guided students in yoga philosophy, meditation practices, and mindfulness.

Counselor and Yoga Teacher Self-Employed, Various Locations 2011 - Present

• Provided counseling and emotional support to clients based on Buddhist principles.
• Conducted individual and group yoga sessions, integrating Hatha and traditional yoga.
• Led meditation workshops and seminars on mindfulness and holistic wellbeing.

Sanskrit Instructor Self-Employed, City, Country 2010 - Present

• Offered weekly Sanskrit classes for beginners, fostering a learning community.
• Developed curriculum and teaching materials to facilitate understanding.
• Encouraged students' linguistic and cultural growth.

PhD (cum laude) in Education and Socio-Educational Interventions Research (University of Oviedo, Spain);

Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills (West End College, Scotland, UK);

Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health Certificate (Sydney University, Australia);

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Certificate (Palouse Mindfulness Center, US); 

Subjectivity, Irony and the Crisis of Modernity Certificate (University of Copenhagen, Denmark);

Introduction to Food and Health Certificate (Stanford University, US);

Ear Training and Music Therapy Certificate (European Center for Modern Music, Italy);

Yoga Teacher Training Certificate (Complementary Therapies Association, UK).