Note: Formerly a PG Diploma, this program is now designated as an Advanced Short-Term Course under the National Education Policy, with no changes to credits, hours, duration, or content.*
Admissions Open for the 12th Batch Apply now for the 2026–27 cohort
Admissions close once seats are filled
At a glance
- Duration: 1 year, part-time
- Format: Fully online or hybrid (online + in-person modules in Pune)
- Cohort size: Limited to 30 participants
- Orientation: mindfulness-based, experiential, application based, body-mind inclusion and trauma-informed
- Certification: Jointly by the Just Being Centre for Mindfulness and Presence and St. Mira’s College, Pune (autonomous; affiliated with Pune University)
- Eligibility: Graduation in any discipline and a sincere willingness to practice listening
Is this course for you?
This course is for those who sense listening not as a technique to acquire, but as a way of being that shapes how they relate, respond, and care.
It may feel right if you find yourself:
- wanting to listen more fully to yourself and others
- Drawn to offering care from stillness, compassion, and embodied awareness
- Wanting to learn from the ‘inside-out’ and in a community
- Holding or moving toward roles that involve people, complexity, and care
You may be a counsellor, therapist, educator, facilitator, HR or people-practice professional, social sector practitioner, policy or systems worker, or a community or organizational leader. You may also be at the edge of this work, with a quiet sense that listening matters deeply.
What matters most is not your background, but your willingness to practice, to reflect, and to meet this learning with openness and curiosity.
Our Learning Community
What will you learn and develop through the course?
Apply now for the 2026–27 cohort
What will you learn and develop?
At the heart of this program is the cultivation of moment-to-moment awareness - within oneself, with the other, in the relational field, and within the larger field of awareness.
Participants are supported to respond from an attentive, attuned, and grounded space, allowing listening to become fluid, responsive, and empowering rather than effortful or draining.
Through the course, participants learn to develop:
- Attentiveness
Staying present to what you encounter within yourself as you listen, to the speaker (said and the unsaid) and the relational space - Authentic Responsiveness
Responding in ways that support the other’s process without directing or fixing - Open and Embodied Presence
Meeting the other with openness, groundedness, embodied presence and care - no matter what arises - Inner Process Awareness
Gently supporting the other in listening to their inner process and uncovering their own inherent wisdom. - Somatic Awareness
Integrating body awareness and somatic resonance into the listening process - Recognition of Specialized Support
Knowing when additional or specialized help may be needed and responding ethically
To be there for another, we need to encounter ourselves deeply and so the course design is high on self-reflective, non-sectarian mindfulness practices, personal counseling sessions and peer listening exchanges.
→ Learn more about the Program Structure
→ Apply now for the 2026–27 cohort
Program structure and learning rhythm
The course spans approximately 630 hours and includes:
- Pre-course 40-Day Mindfulness Practice
A 40-Day Mindfulness Practice is offered before the course begins at no additional cost to those enrolling. The 30-minute daily practice helps cultivate a regular mindfulness practice in the support of a community and covers key mindfulness practices as recommended in the course. - 6 in-person or online modules, held once a month
- Each module is a 3-day weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
- This learning unfolds best when participants are able to be present fully for all three days, making space from other commitments. Those joining online are invited to attend with video on, supporting a sense of connection and shared learning.
- Ongoing mindfulness practices
Mindfulness practices drawn from contemplative traditions primarily Buddhist psychology and form the basis of understanding the listening process. It also supports you to be more fully present to yourself and the other. It is a core requirement of the course learning. - Peer listening exchanges
In between modules, we have peer listening exchanges to deepen and apply the learnings from the module, learn how to hold space for the other as well as receive space held for oneself. - Practice Individual Client Sessions and Group Listening Spaces as assignments between modules, allowing an on-going learning and feedback process in the course learnings.
- Online group supervision sessions
Supervisions help to navigate developing capacities and skills in this approach as one begins one-on-one client sessions or holding group listening spaces. You will also be required to have two individual supervision sessions with a Just Being Training team member and submit one audio/video recorded session. - Personal counselling sessions with experienced counsellors
As we engage in the listening process and learning, we also encounter our own feelings, thoughts and experiences. Having one on one personal counselling sessions supports us in meeting what we encounter. It is a form of support and self-care.
→ Key Dates and Curriculum
→ Apply now for the 2026–27 cohort
Key Dates and Curriculum
| Description | Date | |
|---|---|---|
| Admissions | Rolling admissions; application and interview–based selection. Payment of deposit. Limited to 30 participants. → Apply now for the 2026–27 cohort | 5th January 2026 – 1st June 2026 |
| 40-day Mindfulness Practice in Community | A 30-minute daily practice offered prior to the course and free of cost to those enrolling. supporting the cultivation of regular mindfulness within a community and introducing key practices used in the program. → Learn More | 21st June – 1st August, 2026 |
| Module 1 | Embodied Presence in the Practitioner - Mindfulness and its relationship to embodied listening The Embodied Self of the Practitioner Intention and Attention in Listening and Counseling | August 7-9, 2026 |
| Module 2 | Attunement and Resonance in the listening process Listening to feelings and needs The importance of allowing for feelings The role of empathy in the relational space | September 11-13, 2026 |
| Module 3 | The principle of wholeness Verbal Skills of Counseling Listening to the field of awareness Neuroscience of Mindfulness | October 9-11, 2026 |
| Group Supervision 1 | Preparing for Client Sessions Ethical Issues in Counselling | November 14,15, 2026 |
| Mid-term Evaluation | A written online evaluation | 29th November, 2026 |
| Module 4 | Inner Listening Processes Grief and Loss Being Trauma Informed | December 4-6, 2026 |
| Group Supervision 2 | Discussion of Client Sessions Deepening of Mindfulness Practice | January 9,10, 2027 |
| Module 5 | Group Process Work Listening Suicidal Ideation, Risk Assessment and Protective Factors Psychiatric Conditions | February 5-7, 2027 |
| Group Supervision 3 | Discussion of Client Sessions Deepening of Mindfulness Practice | March 13,14, 2027 |
| Module 6 | Applications of Counselling with sensitivity Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Neurodiversity LBGTQIA+ | April 2-4, 2027 |
| Final Evaluation | A written online evaluation Submitted Audio Recording | 6th June, 2027 |
| Final Submissions | All required peer, client, group sessions conducted, assignments, supervision, personal counseling sessions, required hours of mindfulness practice and audio/video recording | 30th June, 2027 |
Attendance and completion requirements
To complete the course, participants are required to:
- Attend all modules and supervision sessions
- Complete 240 hours of mindfulness practice
- Conduct 26 peer listening sessions
- Conduct 24 individual listening or counselling sessions externally
- Facilitate 4 group sessions (one in-class, three externally)
- Receive 2 individual supervision sessions
- Receive 6 personal counselling sessions
Certification is granted only upon completion of all requirements.
Certification
- Participants with a psychology or social work background are certified in Mindfulness Based Counseling: Listening with Embodied Presence
- All other participants (without a psychology background) are certified in Mindfulness Based Listening with Embodied Presence
A note on meeting course requirements
The course places practice and depth at the centre of learning. While we strongly recommend that you create the time and space for the engagement and attention the learning requires (about 4-5 hours a week, besides a daily mindfulness practice and attendance of the monthly modules, we recognise that you may also have unexpected happenings in your life.
Where genuine difficulties arise, we aim to respond with care and flexibility, while honouring the commitment each participant makes to the learning process and to the group. Any adjustments are held in conversation, with attention to both individual needs and the integrity of the training.
→ Learn more about your teaching team (Faculty bios)
Faculty
Sandy Dias Andrade is the Lead Trainer and Program Developer. Drawing on over 25 years of experience as a psychotherapist and mindfulness- and presence-oriented practitioner, she brings together the subtle nuances of teaching and learning listening with embodied presence.
The program has been offered for over a decade and has been continually deepened by those who have tended it alongside Sandy - a committed team of co-teachers, including Dr. Harini Raval, as well as a dedicated team of assistants and coordinators.
Together, the faculty bring continuity, steadiness, and a shared ethic of paying forward what they themselves have received through practice, supervision, and community. The strong academic partnership with St. Mira’s College for Girls (Autonomous), Pune, further strengthens the learning container.
- Read our full faculty profiles here
Our Learning Community
Participants in this course come from diverse walks of life and identities, and are united by a shared interest in meeting themselves and others with honesty, care, and depth.
Our cohorts span a wide age range, from the early 20s to the 70s, and include participants from across India and internationally. You may find counsellors,therapists, educators, and facilitators, , social sector and policy practitioners, community and organizational leaders, caregivers, and individuals in transition learning together.
Over the years, many participants find their cohorts and the alumni becoming a learning community that continues to offer connection, support, and shared inquiry beyond the course itself.
“I felt very supported throughout the course from my teacher and from my peers. When I got derailed in the middle and lost confidence, I received motivation and encouragement from my peers. Sandy was very understanding and created a safe space for us to be exactly who we are and get through the course at our own pace. I also feel there has been an immense growth for myself (personally).”
![Sheneille Patil, Student (2019-2020)][image1]
Sheneille Patil, Student (2019-2020)
- Read more about our Alumni Experiences
Program fee and financial care
Base program fee
₹80,000 (inclusive of GST; ₹67,797 plus 18% GST)
This amount meets our course operating costs and allows the program and the organisation to sustain itself with care and integrity.
Please note:
- Individual supervision sessions and personal counselling sessions are not included in the base fee
- Travel, accommodation, and food for in-person modules in Pune are not included
Benefactor’s fee
Participants who are able may choose to contribute a Benefactor’s Fee ranging from ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000.
This additional contribution helps:
- Support scholarships and fee support for others
- Make the course more inclusive across backgrounds and geographies
- Strengthens the sustainability of mindfulness and presence-based training spaces
Scholarships and fee support
We recognise that financial circumstances vary. If this program resonates with you,a concern and you work with disadvantaged populations we invite you to reach out. We approach these conversations with honesty, dignity, and care, for both participants and the organisation.
📧 justbeingcenter@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91 90110 36828
- Link to Lorraine Fernandes Scholarship here
Admissions process
Admissions are rolling and close once seats are filled.
The process includes:
- Submission of the application form
- Once accepted, you are invited for an interview
- Final selection
- A non-refundable deposit of ₹18,000 to confirm enrolment
- Completion of documentation and full fee payment
Seats are limited to 30 participants to preserve the depth and safety of the learning environment.
→ Apply for the 2026–27 cohort
Admissions close once seats are filled.
A closing invitation
If you feel drawn but are still sensing your way, you are welcome to take your time.
When you are ready, we look forward to hearing from you.
📧 justbeingcenter@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91 90110 36828
In the meantime, you can be a part of the Just Being community joining in for our free community offering of Saturday mindfulness practice circles, or other offerings from the center. -> Register here!
Sign up for our informational webinars with faculty to learn more -> Register here!
Try a guided mindfulness practice -> Link to Youtube Resources
-> FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need a background in psychology or counselling to apply?
The course welcomes participants from any discipline. What matters most is your willingness to engage sincerely in self-reflection, mindfulness practice, and learning to listen deeply. Certification pathways differ slightly based on background, but the learning journey is the same..
2. Is this course suitable if I am already working full-time?
Yes. The course is designed as a one-year, part-time program. Modules are held once a month over a three-day weekend, and practice work is spaced gradually between modules. You will need to make dedicated time for learning and practice, but many participants complete the course alongside work and family responsibilities.
The course emphasises ethical clarity, scope of practice, and recognising when specialised support is needed.
4. What is meant by “Listening with Embodied Presence”?
Listening with embodied presence means listening not only with the mind, but also with awareness of the body, emotions, and the relational field. It involves staying grounded, attentive, and receptive to what is unfolding moment by moment.
5. What is the time commitment between modules?
Between modules, participants engage in mindfulness practice, peer listening sessions, individual listening sessions, and reflective assignments. These are designed to deepen learning gradually and sustainably rather than intensively all at once. It will require 4-6 hours a week, besides a daily 30 minute mindfulness practice and attendance of monthly modules.
6. What if I miss a module or fall behind due to life circumstances?
Regular attendance is important because learning happens in relationship and continuity. At the same time, we recognise that life circumstances can arise. Where genuine difficulties occur, we aim to explore possible flexibility through conversation, while maintaining learning integrity and care for the group process.
8. Is this course religious or tied to a specific spiritual tradition?
No. The mindfulness practices are non-sectarian and drawn from Buddhist Psychology. Since these are broad principles drawn largely from Buddhist Psychology, other contemplative traditions and contemporary psychology, participants from all spiritual, religious, and secular backgrounds will find its applications and relevance in their own living experiences..
9. What is the difference between the online and hybrid formats?
Both formats offer the same curriculum and learning outcomes. In the hybrid format, some modules are attended in person at the Just Being Center in Pune, while others are attended online. Participants may choose the format that best fits their location and circumstances.
10. Are scholarships or financial support available?
Yes. We offer limited and partial scholarships to those with financial constraints and who work with disadvantaged populations. Application for scholarships is a process and requests are vetted by our scholarship committee. We invite participants who want to apply for scholarships to write to justbeingcenter@gmail.com We would like to keep the course inclusive and if you can support fellow participants over and above your course fee, we welcome you to choose the Benefactor’s Fee option for those who wish to support greater inclusivity through sponsorship
11. How are participants selected?
Admissions are through an application and interview process. Selection is based on readiness for the learning journey, commitment to attendance and assignments, capacity for self-reflection, and alignment with the spirit of the course, rather than academic background alone.
12. How many participants are there in each cohort?
Cohorts are limited to 30 participants to ensure depth of learning, safety, and meaningful relational engagement. We have a team of ten assistants supporting the learning journey, maintaining a 1:3 ratio for supportive learning
13. Who can I contact if I still have questions or want to talk it through?
You are welcome to write or reach out directly!
Shiby Nair is your main point of contact for this course. She leads the Trainings and Counselling Services vertical at Just Being. Grounded in consistent mindfulness practice and a queer-affirmative, inclusive lens, she holds learning, supervision, and counseling spaces with care and steadiness, supporting participants as the course unfolds.
📧 justbeingcenter@gmail.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91 90110 36828
Mayukhini
Mindfulness-based Listening Practitioner, Design Educator and Creative Process Facilitator
For listening and facilitating the therapeutic process of another human being to be effective in any way, we are called to respond from the place of our own complete humanness. It needs us to engage from our minds, our hearts and bodies; from what we know from past learning and what we can only discover freshly in the present moment of an alive, dynamic encounter.
In my research on where to learn this, I found either the extremes of places that emphasized rigid, mechanistic ways of knowing a person - flattening the richness and mystery of being a human to fit the fashionable theories of a time. Or I found places that in the name of the mystery, had no sound theoretical framework to guide - risking the anti-ethical stance of ‘anything goes’. I was surprised to find a place like Just Being, where the teachers so skillfully imparted this ‘middle path’ - of integrating evidence-based methods with the capacity of being intuitive and human. Just Being’s pedagogy is highly experiential, which is what it needs to be in learning the ‘art’ and not just the science of facilitation. I feel enormously grateful for discovering this authentic place of learning.
Batch 2022-23
Sandy Dias Andrade
Lead Teacher and designer of the course
A gifted psychotherapist, trainer and workshop leader with 19 years of experience in the field, she has primarily trained in Mindfulness based interventions like Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Integral Somatic Psychotherapy (ISP), Biodynamic CranioSacral Therapy (BSCT), Focusing Skills Certification and is equipped in skills in cognitive, affective, somatic works as well as trauma resolution.
Sandy Dias Andrade is a psychotherapist in mindfulness and presence and founder director of Just Being, Pune. She is also a trustee at Connecting, an NGO involved in suicide prevention work. She was responsible for initiating the helpline service and has trained and mentored over hundred volunteers in ‘Mindfulness Based Active Listening’ as well as mentored other organisations and individuals in setting up listening systems.
Harini Raval
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Co-Teacher
Harini is an associated counselor with Just Being and holds individual as well as Group therapy spaces. She facilitated Grief Circles for the community on behalf of Just Being Center in association with Connecting Trust. She also works in the area of strengthening leadership in education and child development.
Harini Raval holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from ‘College of Social Work Nirmal Niketan’ and a Doctoral Degree in Education from ‘University of Twente, Netherlands’. She has trained in ‘Mindfulness Based Counseling: Listening with Embodied Presence’ from Just Being & St. Mira’s and ‘Mindfulness & Presence Oriented Psychotherapy’ from Just Being Center.
Admissions process
Admissions are rolling and close once seats are filled.
The process includes:
1. Submission of the application form
2. Once accepted, you are invited for an interview
3. Final selection
4. A non-refundable deposit of ₹18,000 to confirm enrolment
5. Completion of documentation and full fee payment
Seats are limited to 30 participants to preserve the depth and safety of the learning environment.
