The Guide to Compassionate Assertiveness

“In this book, Sherrie M. Vavrichek skillfully draws on cognitive behavioral therapy, Buddhist psychology and philosophy, and her own deep insight. The compassionate assertiveness approach offers powerful tools to grow beyond conflict strategies that no longer serve, without doing violence to oneself or others. Her book is a valuable contribution that will be a great help to many.”

—Sharon Salzberg, author of Real Happiness

“In her accessible and deeply wise book, Sherrie M. Vavrichek teaches us how to communicate our truths in a way that serves understanding and connection. The mindfulness and skills at the center of this training can transform and heal not only individual relationships, but the fabric of our society.”

—Tara Brach, PhD, clinical psychologist, meditation teacher and author of Radical Acceptance and True Refuge

“Well-written, thoughtful, and incredibly enlightening. This book adeptly weaves philosophy and psychology into an interpersonal approach that can have a major positive impact on anyone’s life.”

—Jon E. Grant, MD, professor of psychiatry at the University of Minnesota and author of Stop Me Because I Can’t Stop Myself

“As someone brought up on traditional assertiveness training, I have to say that Sherrie M. Vavrichek’s book brings a newer, much better and more usable approach to helping people with problems in this area. It is a thoughtful, well-written gem, and a genuine resource. I can truly see myself recommending this to my own patients.”

—Fred Penzel, PhD, author of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders and The Hair-Pulling Problem

“The Guide to Compassionate Assertiveness is a joyously practical marriage of Western psychotherapy and Eastern wisdom. Clearly written with many helpful examples, it presents valuable skills that sensitive people need in dealing with the world.”

—Kate Berg, PhD, geneticist, writer and yoga instructor at Quiet Willow Studio in Silver Spring, MD

“As a therapist/healer I found Vavrichek’s book inspiring. This unique approach of blending Buddhist principles and cognitive behavioral strategies provides a useful and practical guide on how to navigate through your life assertively in a gentler and truly loving way.”

—Merrill Black, LCSW, Reiki master and hypnotherapist specializing in anxiety disorders

“Drawing on her experiences with Eastern and Western philosophies, Vavrichek has created a unique approach that combines humanism with self-empowerment. If you are looking to apply assertiveness skills in all major areas of your life, then you owe it to yourself to read the wisdom in this life-affirming book.”

—Joel F. Jaro, LCSW-R, psychotherapist and inspirational coach

“In this book, Vavrichek has combined the classic cognitive behavioral technique of assertiveness training with age-old philosophical principles of compassion, mindfulness and kindness. In doing so she provides a framework for assertiveness for the new millennium—effective, constructive and caring. Her writing is clear, convincing, and filled with many illuminating case examples. The author’s expertise and compassion shine through as she leads the reader on a valuable journey of the mind and heart. There is wisdom in this book from which all readers will benefit.”

—Charles S. Mansueto, PhD, director at Behavior Therapy Center of Greater Washington

“It’s (relatively) straightforward to be simply compassionate; the same goes for being assertive. But being both at the same time is a real challenge, even though that’s the sweet spot in significant relationships of any kind. Sherrie M. Vavrichek has done a remarkable job in offering heartfelt, solid, down-to-earth, and effective ways to occupy this sweet spot at home and work.”

—Rick Hanson, PhD, author of Buddha’s Brain

“Ms. Vavrichek tackles the complexities of human thinking, emotions, and interactions, while presenting her writing using style and language that are accessible to the general reader. She guides us toward reaching our ability to remain calm and caring while at the same time taking care of ourselves, without making excuses for others or allowing mistreatment. Sherrie M. Vavrichek accomplishes an amazing task, which is to integrate a Western psychological approach with Eastern Buddhist principles. She presents a new view of assertiveness: when you behave assertively with a caring heart, you are actually showing concern not just for your own, but for the other person’s welfare.”

—Noah Weintraub, PsyD, clinical psychologist at Behavior Therapy Center of Greater Washington