Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counselling in Central London, London

Photo of Meirion Todd, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Meirion Todd
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC4N
My work is informed by practical neuroscience and the practices of mindfulness & compassion to help us slow down, learn to regulate, have more boundaried relationships with others and become a better friend to ourselves.
I know how daunting first sessions can be so it's my job to help you feel as comfortable as possible. The first session is an opportunity for us to find out a little about each other and for you to decide if I am the right therapist for you. We will discuss how things are for you at the moment, what's brought you to therapy and the things you'd like to work on.I offer a supportive, safe and confidential relationship. I have 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, working initially in the NHS and for the last 8 years I've run a busy private practice in Central London.
My work is informed by practical neuroscience and the practices of mindfulness & compassion to help us slow down, learn to regulate, have more boundaried relationships with others and become a better friend to ourselves.
I know how daunting first sessions can be so it's my job to help you feel as comfortable as possible. The first session is an opportunity for us to find out a little about each other and for you to decide if I am the right therapist for you. We will discuss how things are for you at the moment, what's brought you to therapy and the things you'd like to work on.I offer a supportive, safe and confidential relationship. I have 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist, working initially in the NHS and for the last 8 years I've run a busy private practice in Central London.
020 3984 9266 View 020 3984 9266
Photo of Elif Öykü Tolun, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Elif Öykü Tolun
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M
I've been conducting therapies with adults and adolescents both Turkish and English. I mostly use CBT and Mindfulness to help my clients. I work on anxiety, depression, anger management, social anxiety, health anxiety, relationship problems as well as other mental health problems. When necessary, I use Solution Focused Therapy techniques which help patients to see their strong sides to achieve the desired goals and some Art Therapy techniques so that my clients can open up easier and see the things they are not aware of.
I've been conducting therapies with adults and adolescents both Turkish and English. I mostly use CBT and Mindfulness to help my clients. I work on anxiety, depression, anger management, social anxiety, health anxiety, relationship problems as well as other mental health problems. When necessary, I use Solution Focused Therapy techniques which help patients to see their strong sides to achieve the desired goals and some Art Therapy techniques so that my clients can open up easier and see the things they are not aware of.
020 4524 2932 View 020 4524 2932
Photo of Alaa Abuali - Amal Mental Health , MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Amal Mental Health
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
I am a psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in the USA, Dubai and UK. I strongly believe in a client’s ability to heal and the power of the therapeutic alliance. I believe that clients can heal from life’s traumas and struggles in a safe and warm therapeutic environment. I also incorporate techniques of trauma-focused therapy, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and CBT. I also have completed specialised training in expressive arts and trauma. My approach is collaborative and focuses on providing a safe and non-judgmental space for you to begin your healing journey.
I am a psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in the USA, Dubai and UK. I strongly believe in a client’s ability to heal and the power of the therapeutic alliance. I believe that clients can heal from life’s traumas and struggles in a safe and warm therapeutic environment. I also incorporate techniques of trauma-focused therapy, psychodynamic, mindfulness, and CBT. I also have completed specialised training in expressive arts and trauma. My approach is collaborative and focuses on providing a safe and non-judgmental space for you to begin your healing journey.
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Photo of Haneyeh Belyani, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Haneyeh Belyani
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M
As a counselling psychologist, I am training in using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), person centered therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness and compassion focused therapy.
My integrative training and years of experience enables me to draw on a range of psychological therapies in my work with children, adults, couples and families. I work with a range of difficulties including depressions, anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
As a counselling psychologist, I am training in using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), person centered therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR, mindfulness and compassion focused therapy.
My integrative training and years of experience enables me to draw on a range of psychological therapies in my work with children, adults, couples and families. I work with a range of difficulties including depressions, anxiety, trauma and relationship difficulties.
020 3962 1652 View 020 3962 1652
Photo of Gillian Wright, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Gillian Wright
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
In my practice I draw on: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and mindfulness-based practices.
With substantial experience working in NHS mental health services since 2005, my contributions span both children's and adult services, providing me with valuable experience in collaborating with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I offer support for various mental health challenges, such as low self-esteem/confidence, depression, stress, and anxiety, including phobias, generalised anxiety, and panic disorders. I have specialist experience in working with people with physical health difficulties, anxiety presentations and working with neurodiveristy.
In my practice I draw on: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT) and mindfulness-based practices.
With substantial experience working in NHS mental health services since 2005, my contributions span both children's and adult services, providing me with valuable experience in collaborating with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams. I offer support for various mental health challenges, such as low self-esteem/confidence, depression, stress, and anxiety, including phobias, generalised anxiety, and panic disorders. I have specialist experience in working with people with physical health difficulties, anxiety presentations and working with neurodiveristy.
020 3835 4218 View 020 3835 4218
Photo of Simone Taylor-Lewis, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Simone Taylor-Lewis
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2H  (Online Only)
If you're processing past experiences, navigating current challenges, or seeking to build a brighter future, my approach offers specialist expertise in mindfulness, coaching techniques, tools for self-awareness, acceptance, and positive change. I am an accredited therapist specialised in offering a holistic and compassionate space that is affirming and inclusive for People of Colour and the LBGT+ community. I am committed to understanding your unique experiences and tailoring a therapeutic approach that aligns with your values and goals.
If you're processing past experiences, navigating current challenges, or seeking to build a brighter future, my approach offers specialist expertise in mindfulness, coaching techniques, tools for self-awareness, acceptance, and positive change. I am an accredited therapist specialised in offering a holistic and compassionate space that is affirming and inclusive for People of Colour and the LBGT+ community. I am committed to understanding your unique experiences and tailoring a therapeutic approach that aligns with your values and goals.
020 3772 6818 View 020 3772 6818
Photo of Venise Adams-Sarfo - Chrystal Therapy (Autism Specialist), MBACP, Psychotherapist
Chrystal Therapy (Autism Specialist)
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2H
Through evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused counselling develop practical coping strategies and achieve your personal goals.
Chrystal Therapy offers personalised counselling services to support individuals coping with difficult life events. Our skilled, licensed therapists work collaboratively with each client to identify practical solutions and strategies for overcoming challenges related to depression, grief, job loss, relationship struggles, mental health concerns, and autism spectrum disorder. We pride ourselves on providing a warm, welcoming environment where you'll feel heard, supported, and understood from the very first session.
Through evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused counselling develop practical coping strategies and achieve your personal goals.
Chrystal Therapy offers personalised counselling services to support individuals coping with difficult life events. Our skilled, licensed therapists work collaboratively with each client to identify practical solutions and strategies for overcoming challenges related to depression, grief, job loss, relationship struggles, mental health concerns, and autism spectrum disorder. We pride ourselves on providing a warm, welcoming environment where you'll feel heard, supported, and understood from the very first session.
01905 975299 View 01905 975299
Photo of Dr Claudia Chisari, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Claudia Chisari
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2B
My main therapeutic approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness therapies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy, Sex/Relationship therapies.
I am a Chartered Psychologist and Psychotherapist with 10 years experience of supporting people with chronic/persistent pain, particularly pelvic pain conditions like Vulvodynia, Vaginismus, Endometriosis, UTIs. I have a PhD in Vulvodynia at King's College London, and a specialism in developing treatments in Pelvic pain through my practise, Bloume Health. I also support couples and partners of those who experience these issues, individually and/or together.
My main therapeutic approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness therapies, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Compassion Focused Therapy, Sex/Relationship therapies.
I am a Chartered Psychologist and Psychotherapist with 10 years experience of supporting people with chronic/persistent pain, particularly pelvic pain conditions like Vulvodynia, Vaginismus, Endometriosis, UTIs. I have a PhD in Vulvodynia at King's College London, and a specialism in developing treatments in Pelvic pain through my practise, Bloume Health. I also support couples and partners of those who experience these issues, individually and/or together.
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Photo of Elaine Conway - Elaine Conway, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Elaine Conway
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2M  (Online Only)
As a Trauma, Mindfulness & IFS trained therapist, I encourage specific thinking around how your past experiences are shaping your relationships, your emotions & your life.
You can expect to receive effective, nurturing, honest therapy which will help you make space for a different perspective; I am passionate about relieving the mental, physical, emotional and relational distress client's present with. I mainly get contacted by clients who present with Anxiety, Depression, low mood, Relationship issues, Trauma & Addictions. - Client testimony “As a result of my sessions with Elaine, I’ve made some really positive changes which I wholeheartedly believe I wouldn’t have been capable of without her professional guidance.”
As a Trauma, Mindfulness & IFS trained therapist, I encourage specific thinking around how your past experiences are shaping your relationships, your emotions & your life.
You can expect to receive effective, nurturing, honest therapy which will help you make space for a different perspective; I am passionate about relieving the mental, physical, emotional and relational distress client's present with. I mainly get contacted by clients who present with Anxiety, Depression, low mood, Relationship issues, Trauma & Addictions. - Client testimony “As a result of my sessions with Elaine, I’ve made some really positive changes which I wholeheartedly believe I wouldn’t have been capable of without her professional guidance.”
020 4538 5035 View 020 4538 5035
Photo of Maggie Tambala, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Maggie Tambala
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2A  (Online Only)
Mindfulness is an optional part of my work and clients who choose to use it reap the many benefits of this practice throughout our sessions together and thereon afterwards.
I work with clients presenting a wide range of issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, phobias, bereavement, loss, relationships, mental health. As an integrative counsellor I use a variety of different therapeutic methods designed to meet your personal needs whilst allowing me to gain an understanding of the world from your unique perspective. Together we are able to build a confidential relationship in which you can feel safe, heard and understood, where you can share your problems, see them more clearly and develop better ways of coping with them.
Mindfulness is an optional part of my work and clients who choose to use it reap the many benefits of this practice throughout our sessions together and thereon afterwards.
I work with clients presenting a wide range of issues such as anxiety, stress, depression, phobias, bereavement, loss, relationships, mental health. As an integrative counsellor I use a variety of different therapeutic methods designed to meet your personal needs whilst allowing me to gain an understanding of the world from your unique perspective. Together we are able to build a confidential relationship in which you can feel safe, heard and understood, where you can share your problems, see them more clearly and develop better ways of coping with them.
020 4538 4918 View 020 4538 4918
Photo of Dr. Jason Chan, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr. Jason Chan
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
A Principal Clinical Psychologist with 16 years of experience of working in and leading NHS Psychology Services, and an expert in CBT, Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Emotion-focused therapy, EMDR, Acceptance-commitment Therapy and Mindfulness approaches. I offer incisive, experiential, and highly effective treatments designed to help you overcome your distress and effect lasting changes. Seeking help is a major life step. I commit to providing a safe, professional and personalized treatment experience to sensitively support and empower you, deepen your self-understanding and create positive changes for a life that you can truly value.
020 3962 0919 View 020 3962 0919
Photo of Dr Maria Smaga, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Maria Smaga
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2M
As an established Principal Counseling Psychologist in London registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) I have over 16 years of clinical practice and rigorous NHS training in various psychological therapeutic approaches and modalities. The therapy approach I take is integrative drawing from Person Centred, CBT, and Psychodynamic theories and I have a special interest in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mindfulness based practices.
As an established Principal Counseling Psychologist in London registered with the HCPC (Health and Care Professions Council) I have over 16 years of clinical practice and rigorous NHS training in various psychological therapeutic approaches and modalities. The therapy approach I take is integrative drawing from Person Centred, CBT, and Psychodynamic theories and I have a special interest in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Mindfulness based practices.
020 3835 3389 View 020 3835 3389
Photo of Nathalie Salaun, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Nathalie Salaun
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2Y  (Online Only)
Are you tired of fighting a battle with yourself, others or the world? I can help you transform your experience using CBT and Mindfulness so you can begin taking charge of your unhelpful internal processes and empower yourself to be and live a fulfilling life, based on your goals and personal values.
Are you tired of fighting a battle with yourself, others or the world? I can help you transform your experience using CBT and Mindfulness so you can begin taking charge of your unhelpful internal processes and empower yourself to be and live a fulfilling life, based on your goals and personal values.
020 3835 5872 View 020 3835 5872
Photo of Sila Ozdemirler
Sila Ozdemirler
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC1R
I am specialized in working with anxiety, work-related stress and relationship problems and attachment style issues. I also offer support for depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, time management and organisational skills, adaptation problems, identity and life transitions, bereavement, and trauma. I am an integrative therapist working with CBT and incorporate it with acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), compassion focused therapy (CFT) and mindfulness with a holistic approach.
I am specialized in working with anxiety, work-related stress and relationship problems and attachment style issues. I also offer support for depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, time management and organisational skills, adaptation problems, identity and life transitions, bereavement, and trauma. I am an integrative therapist working with CBT and incorporate it with acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), compassion focused therapy (CFT) and mindfulness with a holistic approach.
020 3974 2052 View 020 3974 2052
Photo of Ed Sammons, MBACP, Counsellor
Ed Sammons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Central London, London WC2H
I also have knowledge of DBT and Mindfulness and may draw on these should they be relevant to our work together.
Currently I have availability for group, not for 1-2-1. Hi, my name’s Ed, I’m a Therapist working in Twickenham, West London, and online nationally. I work with people experiencing a wide range of difficulties from many different backgrounds, everyone’s story and reason for coming to therapy are different but all are equal. I offer both long and short term individual therapy, generally the length of therapy is something that we would discuss in our first session. In the case of longer term therapy we would frequently review as the therapy progresses to consider what work remains and when might it be appropriate to conclude therapy.
I also have knowledge of DBT and Mindfulness and may draw on these should they be relevant to our work together.
Currently I have availability for group, not for 1-2-1. Hi, my name’s Ed, I’m a Therapist working in Twickenham, West London, and online nationally. I work with people experiencing a wide range of difficulties from many different backgrounds, everyone’s story and reason for coming to therapy are different but all are equal. I offer both long and short term individual therapy, generally the length of therapy is something that we would discuss in our first session. In the case of longer term therapy we would frequently review as the therapy progresses to consider what work remains and when might it be appropriate to conclude therapy.
07445 308824 View 07445 308824
Photo of Belén Plaza Higueras - EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC4N
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
0117 374 7699 View 0117 374 7699
Photo of Olivier Droillard, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Olivier Droillard
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
I have a particular interest in our ability to experience and to bring mindfulness to our thoughts and emotions but also to the body.
You may be turning to therapy with a specific issue in mind; feelings of loss, loneliness, anxiety or shame. You may simply be experiencing a vague disenchantment with your current situation. I am a warm and thoughtful integrative psychotherapist who aim to bring the appropriate mix of challenge and support to my work. I will work alongside you in a supportive atmosphere to help you find a new sense of clarity, enthusiasm and confidence in your life. Together we will look at your unhelpful or outdated patterns of behaviours to make way for renewed energy towards cherished long-term goals.
I have a particular interest in our ability to experience and to bring mindfulness to our thoughts and emotions but also to the body.
You may be turning to therapy with a specific issue in mind; feelings of loss, loneliness, anxiety or shame. You may simply be experiencing a vague disenchantment with your current situation. I am a warm and thoughtful integrative psychotherapist who aim to bring the appropriate mix of challenge and support to my work. I will work alongside you in a supportive atmosphere to help you find a new sense of clarity, enthusiasm and confidence in your life. Together we will look at your unhelpful or outdated patterns of behaviours to make way for renewed energy towards cherished long-term goals.
020 3962 0682 View 020 3962 0682
Photo of Leann Lavery, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Leann Lavery
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central London, London EC2N  (Online Only)
I consider: Person Centred or Humanistic Approaches; Body Psychotherapy; Psychodynamic Theories; EMDR; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Existential Approaches; and I am a trained Mindfulness practitioner.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. You are likely here because you are going through things that you need support with, and you might be considering if counselling can help, or if I am the right therapist for you. I have a warm and down to earth approach and as an integrative practitioner, I support people with various issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bereavement, and those searching for meaning, to name a few. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique needs, and how you can be supported with your goals for therapy.
I consider: Person Centred or Humanistic Approaches; Body Psychotherapy; Psychodynamic Theories; EMDR; Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT); Existential Approaches; and I am a trained Mindfulness practitioner.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page. You are likely here because you are going through things that you need support with, and you might be considering if counselling can help, or if I am the right therapist for you. I have a warm and down to earth approach and as an integrative practitioner, I support people with various issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bereavement, and those searching for meaning, to name a few. I will work collaboratively with you to understand your unique needs, and how you can be supported with your goals for therapy.
020 3974 1538 View 020 3974 1538
Photo of Toni Doyle, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Toni Doyle
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2A
Since completing my clinical training and qualifying as a Counselling Psychologist I have engaged in additional training including Mindfulness-Based approaches and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing).
My name is Toni and I am an HPCP Registered and BPS Chartered Counselling Psychologist working in Reading, Berkshire and online. In addition to my private practice, I worked in the NHS for over fifteen years where I gained experience working with adults and elders who struggled with a wide variety of issues including anxiety and panic, depression, stress, trauma, psychosis, substance misuse, bereavement, domestic violence, rape, personality issues, self-harm and suicidality. The knowledge and the experience I gained throughout the years enables me to adapt my approach to suit the needs of each individual that I meet.
Since completing my clinical training and qualifying as a Counselling Psychologist I have engaged in additional training including Mindfulness-Based approaches and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing).
My name is Toni and I am an HPCP Registered and BPS Chartered Counselling Psychologist working in Reading, Berkshire and online. In addition to my private practice, I worked in the NHS for over fifteen years where I gained experience working with adults and elders who struggled with a wide variety of issues including anxiety and panic, depression, stress, trauma, psychosis, substance misuse, bereavement, domestic violence, rape, personality issues, self-harm and suicidality. The knowledge and the experience I gained throughout the years enables me to adapt my approach to suit the needs of each individual that I meet.
020 3870 3920 View 020 3870 3920
Photo of Wayne M. Mertins-Brown, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Wayne M. Mertins-Brown
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Central London, London EC2R
Since the Coronavirus pandemic my Psychotherapy practice has moved online, in most cases. My fee for working face-to-face - in and around the Greater London area - can be discussed. I offer one-to-one, couple and relationship counselling and group therapy. I work with an integrative approach, including theoretical principles such as Relational, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Spiritual, Mindfulness, Gestalt, etc. I also incorporate Eco-Psychotherapy, as I believe we are each emotionally and spiritually impacted by the differing, ecological environments in which we live.
Since the Coronavirus pandemic my Psychotherapy practice has moved online, in most cases. My fee for working face-to-face - in and around the Greater London area - can be discussed. I offer one-to-one, couple and relationship counselling and group therapy. I work with an integrative approach, including theoretical principles such as Relational, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Spiritual, Mindfulness, Gestalt, etc. I also incorporate Eco-Psychotherapy, as I believe we are each emotionally and spiritually impacted by the differing, ecological environments in which we live.
020 7046 0224 View 020 7046 0224
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Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counsellors

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behaviour through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviours and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioural habits.