Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Tawnya Perry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tawnya Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Hi there, I'm Tawnya! I'm an LCSW versed in in culturally competent work with clients who have experienced trauma/challenges related to gender and race, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and family issues. My approach include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength base therapies, and the utilization of culturally competent practices that take into consideration issues related to gender, class, ethnicity, and race. I consider it an honor to be able to assist clients as they move forward in exploring obstacles that may be negatively impacting their contentment and happiness.
Hi there, I'm Tawnya! I'm an LCSW versed in in culturally competent work with clients who have experienced trauma/challenges related to gender and race, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, and family issues. My approach include cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, strength base therapies, and the utilization of culturally competent practices that take into consideration issues related to gender, class, ethnicity, and race. I consider it an honor to be able to assist clients as they move forward in exploring obstacles that may be negatively impacting their contentment and happiness.
(858) 544-3906 View (858) 544-3906
Photo of Vincent Oviedo, LCSW, DSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Oviedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am an empathetic, client-centered, nonjudgmental listener with a passion for health, fitness, and personal transformation. I encourage mindfulness to calm the mind and meditation to relax the soul for growth, success, and positive change. I love to combine therapy with coaching to help people reach their full potential while enjoying life with zest, peace.
I am an empathetic, client-centered, nonjudgmental listener with a passion for health, fitness, and personal transformation. I encourage mindfulness to calm the mind and meditation to relax the soul for growth, success, and positive change. I love to combine therapy with coaching to help people reach their full potential while enjoying life with zest, peace.
(831) 264-0361 View (831) 264-0361
Photo of Josh Thomas, PhD, Psychologist
Josh Thomas
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
He has also consulted with innovative tech companies to integrate mindfulness-based CBT, biofeedback, and telemedicine for the treatment of depression.
Dr. Thomas is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, acute stress, relationship problems, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in living from and connecting to personal values, his approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. He integrates CBT and mindfulness-based interventions to help individuals to uncover, discover, and discard thinking and behavioral patterns that are blocking them from living enriched and empowered lives.
He has also consulted with innovative tech companies to integrate mindfulness-based CBT, biofeedback, and telemedicine for the treatment of depression.
Dr. Thomas is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in substance addiction, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, acute stress, relationship problems, and chronic pain. With an emphasis in living from and connecting to personal values, his approach is highly compassionate, culturally sensitive, strengths-based, and evidenced-based. He integrates CBT and mindfulness-based interventions to help individuals to uncover, discover, and discard thinking and behavioral patterns that are blocking them from living enriched and empowered lives.
(628) 237-0701 View (628) 237-0701
Photo of Natalie Steele, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My therapeutic approach integrates a strength-based philosophy with emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness training.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
My therapeutic approach integrates a strength-based philosophy with emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness training.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
(858) 295-7251 View (858) 295-7251
Photo of Beth Creager Berger, PhD, Psychologist
Beth Creager Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Often in conjunction with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, I incorporate interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I am a licensed psychologist with an emphasis in anxiety disorders and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Other areas of focus have been on stress related issues, relationship issues, and life changing events which include completing college, career changes, and coping with loss.
Often in conjunction with Cognitive Behavior Therapy, I incorporate interpersonal therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I am a licensed psychologist with an emphasis in anxiety disorders and perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Other areas of focus have been on stress related issues, relationship issues, and life changing events which include completing college, career changes, and coping with loss.
(858) 298-3400 View (858) 298-3400
Photo of Kellie Delli Colli, PhD, BCN, RYT, Psychologist
Kellie Delli Colli
Psychologist, PhD, BCN, RYT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I integrate bio-neurofeedback, brain mapping, and mindfulness for optimal brain-body function.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
I integrate bio-neurofeedback, brain mapping, and mindfulness for optimal brain-body function.
Are you facing the overwhelming weight of life's challenges, experiencing obsessive thoughts, intrusive memories, feeling disconnected from others, fatigue, feeling on edge, sadness, fear, worry, or constant distraction? If these difficulties impact your work, relationships, and overall well-being, I am here to support you through a powerful process of healing and growth. I specialize in treating people who experience trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Through your engagement in treatment, you will free yourself from suffering, overcome obstacles, and foster your resilience.
(619) 598-0813 View (619) 598-0813
Photo of Kristin Schwartz, MC, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Schwartz
Psychologist, MC, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
My focus on the values of mindfulness, forward motion, and relationships will help you find answers and solutions.
Working together to determine and achieve your goals is my primary objective as your psychologist. When you arrive at my office you will be warmly welcomed into a space where you can decompress. I am committed to being accessible and feel honored by the opportunity to help you through this process. My office space is private, quiet, and welcoming and is centrally located near I-15. My roots in marriage, family, and child therapy, combined with a focus on cognitive behavioral interventions, will provide you the skills to navigate your obstacles.
My focus on the values of mindfulness, forward motion, and relationships will help you find answers and solutions.
Working together to determine and achieve your goals is my primary objective as your psychologist. When you arrive at my office you will be warmly welcomed into a space where you can decompress. I am committed to being accessible and feel honored by the opportunity to help you through this process. My office space is private, quiet, and welcoming and is centrally located near I-15. My roots in marriage, family, and child therapy, combined with a focus on cognitive behavioral interventions, will provide you the skills to navigate your obstacles.
(858) 381-4286 View (858) 381-4286
Photo of Moira Haller, PhD, Psychologist
Moira Haller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I most commonly use cognitive-behavioral therapy but also draw upon acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches.
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
I most commonly use cognitive-behavioral therapy but also draw upon acceptance and mindfulness-based approaches.
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
(858) 267-4193 View (858) 267-4193
Photo of Carole Meredith, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carole Meredith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Training includes: Mindfulness, Somatic psychology (working with the body-mind connection), SensorimotorPsychotherapy, IFS Informed, SSP Provider, Bowen/Family Systems.
We all respond to the problems in our lives by developing survival strategies, ones that often keep us disconnected from our true self and from others. Because we do this unconsciously, it can be difficult to identify how we get in our own way. However, you have the wisdom within for your own growth and healing. My focus is to accompany you, both as a guide and a companion, in finding your "place in the world", both individually and relationally.
Training includes: Mindfulness, Somatic psychology (working with the body-mind connection), SensorimotorPsychotherapy, IFS Informed, SSP Provider, Bowen/Family Systems.
We all respond to the problems in our lives by developing survival strategies, ones that often keep us disconnected from our true self and from others. Because we do this unconsciously, it can be difficult to identify how we get in our own way. However, you have the wisdom within for your own growth and healing. My focus is to accompany you, both as a guide and a companion, in finding your "place in the world", both individually and relationally.
(858) 381-4109 View (858) 381-4109
Photo of Anne Rubio, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Rubio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
She has a collaborative approach to therapy that is strength-based, using art, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, play, strength-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Anne specializes in children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and significant life changes. Her goal is to help people live fully, intentionally, and purposefully.
She has a collaborative approach to therapy that is strength-based, using art, cognitive behavioral, person-centered, play, strength-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Anne specializes in children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and significant life changes. Her goal is to help people live fully, intentionally, and purposefully.
(858) 365-8047 View (858) 365-8047
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Madakasira, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Kimberly Madakasira
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, C-IYT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
I am a licensed professional counselor, Health Psychologist and an International Certified Yoga Therapist. I have been a licensed professional counselor since 2000 with experience treating adults utilizing various techniques and therapies in both group and individual settings. I provide CBT, Mindfulness, Yoga Therapy, etc. which have been shown to be beneficial for depression, anxiety, bipolar, trauma, eating disorders among other issues. I obtained my PhD in Health Psychology from Walden University where I studied somatic issues. My areas of interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and health issues.
(769) 500-1371 View (769) 500-1371
Photo of Lacey Everett, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lacey Everett
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I utilize a Humanistic, Person-Centered, Culturally Informed approach backed by more evidence-based practices such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based strategies.
Hello! My name is Lacey (she/her), and I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology focusing on working with athletes, professional athletes, and children. As a former professional athlete, I understand the challenges individuals may encounter within the culture of athletics. I have conducted therapy in various settings such as schools, primary care medical doctors' offices, crisis centers, autism spectrum settings, and private practices, focusing on helping children, adolescents, adults, and athletes. I am dedicated to serving these populations and excited to be a part of your journey!
I utilize a Humanistic, Person-Centered, Culturally Informed approach backed by more evidence-based practices such as Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based strategies.
Hello! My name is Lacey (she/her), and I am a Doctor of Clinical Psychology focusing on working with athletes, professional athletes, and children. As a former professional athlete, I understand the challenges individuals may encounter within the culture of athletics. I have conducted therapy in various settings such as schools, primary care medical doctors' offices, crisis centers, autism spectrum settings, and private practices, focusing on helping children, adolescents, adults, and athletes. I am dedicated to serving these populations and excited to be a part of your journey!
(858) 544-1639 View (858) 544-1639
Photo of Jelena Bodinet, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jelena Bodinet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Are you struggling with self-doubt, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges that seem rooted in past experiences? I specialize in helping adults break free from the lasting effects of childhood trauma. My practice is centered on guiding clients toward healing using an individualized, evidence-based approach. I integrate Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral approaches to help clients overcome trauma-related patterns, foster self-compassion, restore emotional balance, and create lasting, meaningful change.
Are you struggling with self-doubt, anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges that seem rooted in past experiences? I specialize in helping adults break free from the lasting effects of childhood trauma. My practice is centered on guiding clients toward healing using an individualized, evidence-based approach. I integrate Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral approaches to help clients overcome trauma-related patterns, foster self-compassion, restore emotional balance, and create lasting, meaningful change.
(619) 413-7113 View (619) 413-7113
Photo of Catherine Lucey Mft, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Lucey Mft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I utilize my training in research-based interventions & clinically efficacious modalities such as developmental psychology, attachment theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness-Based therapy.
With a firm belief in the transformative power of self-discovery, I currently specialize in working with emerging adults/college age individuals as well as women and their unique challenges and opportunities faced at different stages of life. My focus is helping my younger clients build inner strength, explore their identities, establish independence, and navigate important life decisions. I also support women related to their career, relationships, health, and personal fulfillment, while also empowering them to embrace their wisdom and strengths.
I utilize my training in research-based interventions & clinically efficacious modalities such as developmental psychology, attachment theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness-Based therapy.
With a firm belief in the transformative power of self-discovery, I currently specialize in working with emerging adults/college age individuals as well as women and their unique challenges and opportunities faced at different stages of life. My focus is helping my younger clients build inner strength, explore their identities, establish independence, and navigate important life decisions. I also support women related to their career, relationships, health, and personal fulfillment, while also empowering them to embrace their wisdom and strengths.
(858) 786-2213 View (858) 786-2213
Photo of Nicole Karst, PsyD, LVN, Psychologist
Nicole Karst
Psychologist, PsyD, LVN
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
She also incorporates mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, dream work, and encourages time in nature to enhance the treatment experience.
Dr. Nicole Karst is a clinical forensic psychologist, nurse, and veteran. She has extensive health and mental health treatment experience at all levels of care ranging from hospitalization to outpatient psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, mood instability, obsessive thoughts, relationship problems, stress management, and mind-body wellness.
She also incorporates mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, dream work, and encourages time in nature to enhance the treatment experience.
Dr. Nicole Karst is a clinical forensic psychologist, nurse, and veteran. She has extensive health and mental health treatment experience at all levels of care ranging from hospitalization to outpatient psychotherapy. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, mood instability, obsessive thoughts, relationship problems, stress management, and mind-body wellness.
(858) 683-6419 x1031 View (858) 683-6419 x1031
Photo of Nasim Bavar, MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nasim Bavar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My training and expertise in several therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness will help you practice tools to enjoy an improved relationship with yourself and others.
As a licensed clinician experienced in multiple therapeutic modalities, I specialize in helping you navigate relationship challenges while promoting personal growth. If you’re facing communication problems, conflict, or difficulty balancing life stressors, I provide a supportive approach to address these concerns. Using practical, evidence-based approaches, I help you build healthier, more fulfilling connections. Together, we’ll focus on developing skills that can improve your relationships and enhance your overall well-being.
My training and expertise in several therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, and Mindfulness will help you practice tools to enjoy an improved relationship with yourself and others.
As a licensed clinician experienced in multiple therapeutic modalities, I specialize in helping you navigate relationship challenges while promoting personal growth. If you’re facing communication problems, conflict, or difficulty balancing life stressors, I provide a supportive approach to address these concerns. Using practical, evidence-based approaches, I help you build healthier, more fulfilling connections. Together, we’ll focus on developing skills that can improve your relationships and enhance your overall well-being.
(858) 444-7746 View (858) 444-7746
Photo of Ayoung Choi, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ayoung Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92092  (Online Only)
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, using techniques like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and process-focused therapy.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressure, or the weight of burnout? Are you struggling to navigate a major life transition, manage relationships, or adapt to new expectations? As a therapist specializing in anxiety therapy, life transitions counseling, and cultural adaptation support, I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. I also offer therapy for high-functioning autism and support for those navigating fast-paced careers and post-pandemic social stress. Together, we can develop a plan to regain balance and achieve personal growth.
My approach is collaborative and client-centered, using techniques like mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and process-focused therapy.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressure, or the weight of burnout? Are you struggling to navigate a major life transition, manage relationships, or adapt to new expectations? As a therapist specializing in anxiety therapy, life transitions counseling, and cultural adaptation support, I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. I also offer therapy for high-functioning autism and support for those navigating fast-paced careers and post-pandemic social stress. Together, we can develop a plan to regain balance and achieve personal growth.
(858) 808-1541 View (858) 808-1541
Photo of Werner Spitzfaden, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Werner Spitzfaden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) as well as other therapeutic frameworks are utilized in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, interpersonal communication, habits and addictions as well as a specialty in driving and flying phobias.
Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating and confusing. I work with adults and couples and provide a supportive space in which to work through your concerns and feelings. Using CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Mindfulness and DBT, the goal is to empower you with new skills and insights to make positive changes with your anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression and communication. With 30+ years experience in therapy and corporate management, we will explore what's preventing you from experiencing more joy and beneficial directions in your life.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) as well as other therapeutic frameworks are utilized in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, work related stress, interpersonal communication, habits and addictions as well as a specialty in driving and flying phobias.
Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating and confusing. I work with adults and couples and provide a supportive space in which to work through your concerns and feelings. Using CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, Mindfulness and DBT, the goal is to empower you with new skills and insights to make positive changes with your anxiety, phobias, OCD, depression and communication. With 30+ years experience in therapy and corporate management, we will explore what's preventing you from experiencing more joy and beneficial directions in your life.
(858) 500-1102 View (858) 500-1102
Photo of Wendy Kathleen Belding, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Kathleen Belding
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
We work on fostering mindfulness and resiliency to attain this valued life.
Do you ever feel like you have everything and should be more satisfied with your life? Life satisfaction can be illusive when sought through other people's values.
We work on fostering mindfulness and resiliency to attain this valued life.
Do you ever feel like you have everything and should be more satisfied with your life? Life satisfaction can be illusive when sought through other people's values.
(619) 377-8847 View (619) 377-8847
Photo of Janelle Matthews, LPCC
Janelle Matthews
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My approach is attuned to your unique personality, beliefs, emotional needs, interpersonal style, personal goals, and readiness for change. I lead with Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness-based treatment methods. I aim to support your creative freedom to explore yourself and life.   I will assist you in developing a comprehensive understanding of the factors impacting your mental health. Collaboratively, we will establish integrative strategies to alleviate distress, renew your capacity for secure attachments, and increase your agency for self-regulation and fulfillment.
My approach is attuned to your unique personality, beliefs, emotional needs, interpersonal style, personal goals, and readiness for change. I lead with Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness-based treatment methods. I aim to support your creative freedom to explore yourself and life.   I will assist you in developing a comprehensive understanding of the factors impacting your mental health. Collaboratively, we will establish integrative strategies to alleviate distress, renew your capacity for secure attachments, and increase your agency for self-regulation and fulfillment.
(424) 423-0656 View (424) 423-0656
1
...
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

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 behavior 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 behaviors 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 behavioral habits.