Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counselling in Sunderland

Photo of Tracy Woodhouse, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Tracy Woodhouse
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR5
Qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor. My driving force is that I care deeply for people who are suffering when their life isn't working as they need it to, but don't know where to start, or even if it is possible to change or do things differently. Are you stuck? I'm here to help. I provide safe, confidential and professional support to facilitate change through difficult times offering Person Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioual Therapy and Self Compassion Mindfulness. Contact us for a free no obligation telephone initial consultation. Easily accessible as we are situated on the ground floor.
Qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor. My driving force is that I care deeply for people who are suffering when their life isn't working as they need it to, but don't know where to start, or even if it is possible to change or do things differently. Are you stuck? I'm here to help. I provide safe, confidential and professional support to facilitate change through difficult times offering Person Centred Counselling, Cognitive Behavioual Therapy and Self Compassion Mindfulness. Contact us for a free no obligation telephone initial consultation. Easily accessible as we are situated on the ground floor.
0191 580 4413 View 0191 580 4413
Photo of Alex Hull - ADHD North East - Dr Alex Hull, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
ADHD North East - Dr Alex Hull
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR1
We integrate cognitive-behavioural techniques, mindfulness practices, and skill-building exercises tailored for young minds.
I have 10+ years of assessing ADHD, including in CAMHS/NHS. Is your child struggling to focus, stay organised, or manage their impulses and emotions? Are you wondering if ADHD might be the underlying cause? We offer comprehensive assessments and support programs designed to help young people thrive—whether they meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD or not. But our mission goes beyond diagnosis. We're dedicated to unlocking each child's unique potential, helping them harness their strengths and overcome challenges.
We integrate cognitive-behavioural techniques, mindfulness practices, and skill-building exercises tailored for young minds.
I have 10+ years of assessing ADHD, including in CAMHS/NHS. Is your child struggling to focus, stay organised, or manage their impulses and emotions? Are you wondering if ADHD might be the underlying cause? We offer comprehensive assessments and support programs designed to help young people thrive—whether they meet diagnostic criteria for ADHD or not. But our mission goes beyond diagnosis. We're dedicated to unlocking each child's unique potential, helping them harness their strengths and overcome challenges.
0191 743 4746 View 0191 743 4746
Photo of Dr Stuart Sadler, PsychD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Stuart Sadler
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR4
As a qualified Clinical Psychologist with advanced training in a range of specialties, I am trained and experienced in a variety of proven talking therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Therapy, Solution-Focused therapy, Counselling, and Mindfulness based approaches.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
As a qualified Clinical Psychologist with advanced training in a range of specialties, I am trained and experienced in a variety of proven talking therapies, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Family Therapy, Solution-Focused therapy, Counselling, and Mindfulness based approaches.
I specialise in helping people overcome problems such as depression, anxiety (whether due to worry, obsessive-compulsive disorder, health anxiety, or intrusive thoughts), and sleep disorders (such as insomnia, nightmares and early waking) so they can feel better and function better in day to day life again.
019467 60715 View 019467 60715
Photo of Lindsay Wilkinson, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Lindsay Wilkinson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR1
I also work in other cognitive therapies such as CBT and schema focused therapy but have a particular interest in mindfulness based and acceptance based therapies.
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour. You don't need a formal diagnosis to work with me, but I do have a speciality of working with people with personality disorders. I also have lots of experience of working with people who have had traumatic histories and are struggling to manage as a result. This might mean they are depressed, anxious or just finding trusting people hard. As well as these specialities, I also work with all major mental health issues
I also work in other cognitive therapies such as CBT and schema focused therapy but have a particular interest in mindfulness based and acceptance based therapies.
I specialise in working with individuals who have difficulties in managing their emotions and therefore struggle with things like relationships, drinking, substance use, self harming and other impulsive behaviour. You don't need a formal diagnosis to work with me, but I do have a speciality of working with people with personality disorders. I also have lots of experience of working with people who have had traumatic histories and are struggling to manage as a result. This might mean they are depressed, anxious or just finding trusting people hard. As well as these specialities, I also work with all major mental health issues
0191 917 9403 View 0191 917 9403
Photo of Dr Sonia Ahmed, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Sonia Ahmed
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR6
Hi I am Dr Sonia Ahmed, a chartered counselling psychologist who is registered with both the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). I have significant experience of working with a range of issues and difficulties, varying from day to day stress to severe mental health issues. These include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, relationship issues, amongst others. Furthermore, I have substantial experience working with trauma and PTSD presentations. These can include post-traumatic stress disorder from single event traumas, complex trauma, and developmental trauma.
Hi I am Dr Sonia Ahmed, a chartered counselling psychologist who is registered with both the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC). I have significant experience of working with a range of issues and difficulties, varying from day to day stress to severe mental health issues. These include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, relationship issues, amongst others. Furthermore, I have substantial experience working with trauma and PTSD presentations. These can include post-traumatic stress disorder from single event traumas, complex trauma, and developmental trauma.
0191 743 9138 View 0191 743 9138
Photo of Beverley Ann Colman, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Beverley Ann Colman
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR3
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
Hello, I’m Bev. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and when our thoughts are disorganised it can be challenging to see a clear way forward and to make positive and healthy choices. Although it is helpful talking to others, many people feel more comfortable and more able to be fully open, talking to a trained professional. I am an Integrative Person-centered Counsellor and EMDR Practitioner. I have experience in supporting and helping clients overcome mental health issues including; bereavement, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and trauma.
07446 869552 View 07446 869552
Photo of Deborah Cowell, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Deborah Cowell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR4
Weekend Clinic Available Now! Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you stress, low moods and anxiety? Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling with past trauma? Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control? Do you feel ready to talk, explore and work through your issues in a safe and confidential space? I can help you address your concerns without any judgement and at your own pace while building a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship.
Weekend Clinic Available Now! Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you stress, low moods and anxiety? Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling with past trauma? Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control? Do you feel ready to talk, explore and work through your issues in a safe and confidential space? I can help you address your concerns without any judgement and at your own pace while building a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship.
0191 743 6562 View 0191 743 6562
Photo of Steve Jarvis - IAS Ltd, BACP, Psychotherapist
IAS Ltd
Psychotherapist, BACP
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR2
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults and young people who are experiencing, anxiety, depression along with other emotional and psychological distress. Counselling can be a liberating and uplifting experience, making the first step to call a counsellor is the biggest step you can make. ( see further down the page for more information about counselling ) I also see couples who are experiencing relationship issues and difficulties or just need to talk through issues together, in a professional, safe place. I qualified as a Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive (CBT) Therapist [ University of Newcastle Upon T
I have over 25 years of experience working with adults and young people who are experiencing, anxiety, depression along with other emotional and psychological distress. Counselling can be a liberating and uplifting experience, making the first step to call a counsellor is the biggest step you can make. ( see further down the page for more information about counselling ) I also see couples who are experiencing relationship issues and difficulties or just need to talk through issues together, in a professional, safe place. I qualified as a Person Centred Counsellor and Cognitive (CBT) Therapist [ University of Newcastle Upon T
07506 747122 View 07506 747122
Photo of Helen Lumley, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Helen Lumley
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR5
There are times in everyone’s life when things become too much. During these times it is important to know that you are not alone. It is helpful to share your thoughts and feelings as this can help to come to terms with life changing events. My humanistic person-centred philosophy places emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I use an integrative approach to my counselling to suit the individual needs of my clients. I offer both short term and long-term counselling. I have experience working with people of all ages.
There are times in everyone’s life when things become too much. During these times it is important to know that you are not alone. It is helpful to share your thoughts and feelings as this can help to come to terms with life changing events. My humanistic person-centred philosophy places emphasis on the importance of the therapeutic relationship. I use an integrative approach to my counselling to suit the individual needs of my clients. I offer both short term and long-term counselling. I have experience working with people of all ages.
0191 580 4482 View 0191 580 4482
Photo of Dr Alex Hull - Leazes Clinical Psychology, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Alex Hull - Leazes Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR1  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced clinical psychologist who is proud to effectively support people who are experiencing a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and low mood. I believe that positive change happens when we work together. We need your commitment, your honesty, and (ideally) some hope. For my part, I offer evidence-based, effective interventions and a promise to work hard with and for you. I have many years working for the NHS, charities, and in private practice so I'm confident that we can get your mental health to the place you want it to be.
I'm an experienced clinical psychologist who is proud to effectively support people who are experiencing a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and low mood. I believe that positive change happens when we work together. We need your commitment, your honesty, and (ideally) some hope. For my part, I offer evidence-based, effective interventions and a promise to work hard with and for you. I have many years working for the NHS, charities, and in private practice so I'm confident that we can get your mental health to the place you want it to be.
0191 743 0144 View 0191 743 0144
Photo of Karen Ambelez Counsellor Clinical Supervisor, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Ambelez Counsellor Clinical Supervisor
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sunderland SR1
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
Struggling to cope with negative emotions can feel very isolating and, by the nature of some problems, guilt and shame can make us feel stigmatised and prevent us reaching out for support even when its not our fault. People come to counselling for all kinds of reasons from childhood trauma to life events as adults such as divorce, bereavement and stress and what they all have in common is a desire to feel better and begin to enjoy life. Some people find they use alcohol or drugs in an attempt to cope with their feelings but inventively this creates more problems
07480 535288 View 07480 535288
Photo of Dr Jaime Jonsson, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Jaime Jonsson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunderland SR1  (Online Only)
Immediate Availability. Welcome and thank you for visiting the information about my online private practice. I am here to help you with whatever arises in your life, big or small, long term or short term. If you are feeling that you can´t manage, have trouble sleeping, worrying, life feels lonely or it is hard to get up on a morning, I am here to work with you towards a more fulfilling and happier life. I offer an online service which is flexible, compassionate, confidential and friendly.
Immediate Availability. Welcome and thank you for visiting the information about my online private practice. I am here to help you with whatever arises in your life, big or small, long term or short term. If you are feeling that you can´t manage, have trouble sleeping, worrying, life feels lonely or it is hard to get up on a morning, I am here to work with you towards a more fulfilling and happier life. I offer an online service which is flexible, compassionate, confidential and friendly.
0141 280 4672 View 0141 280 4672

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mariette van Lieshout, MA
Mariette van Lieshout
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1  (Online Only)
Masters in psychology; qualified CBT therapist (5-year post-doctorate training); Mindfulness training in Bangor and NHS; since 2021 studying at the Assisi Institute, U.
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
Masters in psychology; qualified CBT therapist (5-year post-doctorate training); Mindfulness training in Bangor and NHS; since 2021 studying at the Assisi Institute, U.
If you feel stuck or at a loss with your life, perhaps due to past or present experiences (for example relationship difficulties, illness, work problems, losses); or if thoughts and emotions are difficult to bear (maybe resulting in feelings of anxiety, depression, loneliness or emptiness), you might benefit from talking – sharing with somebody who is there just for you, unbiased and non-judgemental. We would work at building a therapeutic relationship based on mutual trust and respect so that a safe and protected space can be created.
013873 40698 View 013873 40698
Photo of Raphael Kada, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Raphael Kada
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gateshead NE8  (Online Only)
I can help you understand yourself in a better, more truthful and kinder way using the training and experience I have had of helping clients like you to live a richer and more meaningful life using approaches including CBT, person-centred counselling, mindfulness, compassion focused therapy and acceptance commitment therapy.
Are you feeling low, anxious, unsure, stuck, not as productive or just not enjoining the beautiful gift of life - let me help you understand yourself and your difficulties more to allow you to become unstuck, more productive and lead a healthier and happier life within your current circumstances however difficult these may be. Low mood or anxiety can feel hard to overcome or ever break free from but even just starting therapy makes this easier to manage and regulate. Become clearer in your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and way of life through clear, structured therapy at a time, place and space comfortable to you.
I can help you understand yourself in a better, more truthful and kinder way using the training and experience I have had of helping clients like you to live a richer and more meaningful life using approaches including CBT, person-centred counselling, mindfulness, compassion focused therapy and acceptance commitment therapy.
Are you feeling low, anxious, unsure, stuck, not as productive or just not enjoining the beautiful gift of life - let me help you understand yourself and your difficulties more to allow you to become unstuck, more productive and lead a healthier and happier life within your current circumstances however difficult these may be. Low mood or anxiety can feel hard to overcome or ever break free from but even just starting therapy makes this easier to manage and regulate. Become clearer in your thoughts, feelings, behaviours and way of life through clear, structured therapy at a time, place and space comfortable to you.
0161 524 4772 View 0161 524 4772
Photo of Kate Fitzgibbon, MA, Counsellor
Kate Fitzgibbon
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I work with a solution focused approach which means therapy should bring the positive changes/insights you require, due to my diverse training I use a mixture of modalities for example psychodynamic, trans personal & cognitive mindfulness.
I have over 30 years experience, working privately, within the NHS, relate couples counselling, drug & alcohol services, refugee & disability agencies & as a coach. Confidentiality guaranteed. Free telephone consultation. I work face to face, video & telephone calls locally & internationally.
I work with a solution focused approach which means therapy should bring the positive changes/insights you require, due to my diverse training I use a mixture of modalities for example psychodynamic, trans personal & cognitive mindfulness.
I have over 30 years experience, working privately, within the NHS, relate couples counselling, drug & alcohol services, refugee & disability agencies & as a coach. Confidentiality guaranteed. Free telephone consultation. I work face to face, video & telephone calls locally & internationally.
0191 743 1576 View 0191 743 1576
Photo of Faye Fraser - Dr. Faye Fraser, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Faye Fraser
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
As a clinical psychologists Faye is trained in a variety of theoretical models and treatment approaches, including; Developmental Psychology, Neuropsychology, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Systemic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) .
Faye is passionate about offering an approachable and professional clinical psychology service that aims to support those who find themselves in emotional distress. Faye can help you identify and achieve your goals for better mental health. This will involve gaining a better understanding of your difficulties, consider what is blocking you from moving forward and causing you to feel stuck, and consider ways to better manage the issue identified.
As a clinical psychologists Faye is trained in a variety of theoretical models and treatment approaches, including; Developmental Psychology, Neuropsychology, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Systemic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) .
Faye is passionate about offering an approachable and professional clinical psychology service that aims to support those who find themselves in emotional distress. Faye can help you identify and achieve your goals for better mental health. This will involve gaining a better understanding of your difficulties, consider what is blocking you from moving forward and causing you to feel stuck, and consider ways to better manage the issue identified.
0191 917 4522 View 0191 917 4522
Photo of Dr Theresa Comer, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Theresa Comer
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
I use my training in a range of therapies including schema therapy, CBT, mindfulness, compassion focused therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, to provide the most appropriate therapy experience for you.
Hi, I'm Theresa, a Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years experience working with people experiencing emotional and mental health difficulties. Whether you have been experiencing difficulties for a long time, or you have suddenly found yourself struggling, I offer a compassionate, collaborative and evidence-based approach to helping you move forward towards your goals. Psychological therapy offers a safe and reflective space to explore why you might be experiencing difficulties, before coming up with a meaningful plan together for a way to move forward.
I use my training in a range of therapies including schema therapy, CBT, mindfulness, compassion focused therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, to provide the most appropriate therapy experience for you.
Hi, I'm Theresa, a Clinical Psychologist with over 10 years experience working with people experiencing emotional and mental health difficulties. Whether you have been experiencing difficulties for a long time, or you have suddenly found yourself struggling, I offer a compassionate, collaborative and evidence-based approach to helping you move forward towards your goals. Psychological therapy offers a safe and reflective space to explore why you might be experiencing difficulties, before coming up with a meaningful plan together for a way to move forward.
0191 743 0137 View 0191 743 0137
Photo of Fiona Wright, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Fiona Wright
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitley Bay NE26
These can include, CBT, ACT, compassion focused therapy, mindfulness, and trauma informed therapy.
Do you feel anxious, worried or depressed? Sometimes life can be hard, and it can difficult to make sense of distressing thoughts and feelings, and heal from painful life events. Sometimes we might find ourselves stuck, and unable to move forward in the way that we wish to. Often talking to family and friends may be difficult for a number of reasons. This is when it can be helpful to talk to a trained professional who is unbiased and separate from your life. I will provide a safe, confidential space for you, underpinned by a supportive and empathic therapeutic relationship where we can work together on your difficulties.
These can include, CBT, ACT, compassion focused therapy, mindfulness, and trauma informed therapy.
Do you feel anxious, worried or depressed? Sometimes life can be hard, and it can difficult to make sense of distressing thoughts and feelings, and heal from painful life events. Sometimes we might find ourselves stuck, and unable to move forward in the way that we wish to. Often talking to family and friends may be difficult for a number of reasons. This is when it can be helpful to talk to a trained professional who is unbiased and separate from your life. I will provide a safe, confidential space for you, underpinned by a supportive and empathic therapeutic relationship where we can work together on your difficulties.
0191 580 4200 View 0191 580 4200
Photo of Louise Anne Henderson, MBACP, Counsellor
Louise Anne Henderson
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newcastle upon Tyne NE2
I am a Counsellor working from a Person Centred approach integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic approaches. I provide a safe, professional and confidential space to help support clients and facilitate change during challenging times. I provide services that are unique to your individual needs and can create a bespoke combination of therapies that include Counselling, Coaching and Mindfulness. Services can help you feel empowered, make changes, identify & face challenges head on, gain control over your life, provide greater insight & perspective whilst learning coping strategies and encourage a positive mindset.
I am a Counsellor working from a Person Centred approach integrating Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Psychodynamic approaches. I provide a safe, professional and confidential space to help support clients and facilitate change during challenging times. I provide services that are unique to your individual needs and can create a bespoke combination of therapies that include Counselling, Coaching and Mindfulness. Services can help you feel empowered, make changes, identify & face challenges head on, gain control over your life, provide greater insight & perspective whilst learning coping strategies and encourage a positive mindset.
07588 702503 View 07588 702503
Photo of Gabrielle Landric - Gabrielle Landric Psychotherapeutic Counselling, MUKCP, Counsellor
Gabrielle Landric Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Counsellor, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE1
I integrate mindfulness practices, effective for anxiety, stress reduction and management of powerful emotions.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled and lonely? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Wondering where to turn? As a relationally trained therapist, I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, to have more satisfying relationships with themselves and others and to find meaning in their lives. Perhaps you have never felt like you fit anywhere. Perhaps you were abused, neglected or bullied in childhood. Perhaps a sudden trauma, relationship betrayal or bereavement has derailed you and made you question your whole life.
I integrate mindfulness practices, effective for anxiety, stress reduction and management of powerful emotions.
Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness? Do your relationships leave you feeling unfulfilled and lonely? Are you troubled by traumatic memories? Wondering where to turn? As a relationally trained therapist, I am skilled in helping people to improve their self-esteem, to have more satisfying relationships with themselves and others and to find meaning in their lives. Perhaps you have never felt like you fit anywhere. Perhaps you were abused, neglected or bullied in childhood. Perhaps a sudden trauma, relationship betrayal or bereavement has derailed you and made you question your whole life.
0191 580 1451 View 0191 580 1451

See more therapy options for Sunderland

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.