Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Mackenzie Metzger, MA, EdS, NCSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mackenzie Metzger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, EdS, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I specialize in CBT, goal-oriented work, and mindfulness practices.
I am interested in meeting and working with clients at all stages of life, with all needs. Although I hold a special place in my heart for children, adolescents and young adults coping with ADHD, life transitions, anxiety, depression, or working through traumatic experiences.
I specialize in CBT, goal-oriented work, and mindfulness practices.
I am interested in meeting and working with clients at all stages of life, with all needs. Although I hold a special place in my heart for children, adolescents and young adults coping with ADHD, life transitions, anxiety, depression, or working through traumatic experiences.
(217) 912-5239 View (217) 912-5239
Photo of Rosalynn Recine, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosalynn Recine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My primary approach to treating trauma is EMDR and mindfulness based techniques.
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
My primary approach to treating trauma is EMDR and mindfulness based techniques.
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
(872) 246-9764 View (872) 246-9764
Photo of Tim Sturrock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Sturrock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
My approach integrates humanistic, psychodynamic, and mindfulness orientations, infused with thoughtful levity.
I am not currently accepting new clients — I am here to offer support and guidance to clients during difficult times, transitions, or simply in their everyday lives. There are moments when understanding and processing our feelings, thoughts, and circumstances become crucial, and I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental space for that purpose. I tend to work with men dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, work stress, social isolation, life transitions, trauma as well as issues related to sexuality and identity. I also have experience working with people who are under excessive external pressure to succeed.
My approach integrates humanistic, psychodynamic, and mindfulness orientations, infused with thoughtful levity.
I am not currently accepting new clients — I am here to offer support and guidance to clients during difficult times, transitions, or simply in their everyday lives. There are moments when understanding and processing our feelings, thoughts, and circumstances become crucial, and I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental space for that purpose. I tend to work with men dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, work stress, social isolation, life transitions, trauma as well as issues related to sexuality and identity. I also have experience working with people who are under excessive external pressure to succeed.
(872) 266-3735 View (872) 266-3735
Photo of Sarah Hamza, LSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Hamza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work ( mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
We all deserve a space that is exclusively ours. A non-judgmental, accepting, and healing space where we can transform our minds, feelings, and experiences. A space to reflect and grow. I provide holistic therapy that is person-centered, strength-based, and trauma-informed. My approach to therapy is eclectic - I incorporate various treatment modalities and approaches into my work ( mindfulness, CBT, DBT, etc.) and provide anti-oppressive, anti-racist and culturally responsive therapy. The identities you carry are seen, valued, and celebrated. I consider all aspects of your life, including the systems and environments that impact us.
(630) 593-7474 View (630) 593-7474
Photo of Margy Brill, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margy Brill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach in therapy, centering from a relational and narrative framework while incorporating mindfulness practices.
I see my role in therapy as empowering and supporting you in identifying and using your unique identities, stories, and strengths to navigate life stressors, build self-esteem, and feel better in your mind and body; I center my work from a social justice lens to explore how our communities and systems have shaped these identities and stories. My experience includes supporting adults navigating a variety of life transitions, including death-loss, college/career, sober curiosity and relationships. I approach therapy from a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed lens, cultivating a safe and nonjudgmental environment.
I use an integrative approach in therapy, centering from a relational and narrative framework while incorporating mindfulness practices.
I see my role in therapy as empowering and supporting you in identifying and using your unique identities, stories, and strengths to navigate life stressors, build self-esteem, and feel better in your mind and body; I center my work from a social justice lens to explore how our communities and systems have shaped these identities and stories. My experience includes supporting adults navigating a variety of life transitions, including death-loss, college/career, sober curiosity and relationships. I approach therapy from a client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed lens, cultivating a safe and nonjudgmental environment.
(312) 561-3372 View (312) 561-3372
Photo of Kenya Butts, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kenya Butts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60637  (Online Only)
My approach is trauma informed and uses CBT, DBT, mindfulness, meditation and yoga.
Are you finding it hard to be motivated? Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you a new parent and are feeling overwhelmed by your new bundle of joy? If you are feeling any of these things therapy can be a space to find balance and manage your feelings of overwhelm, anxiousness and sadness.
My approach is trauma informed and uses CBT, DBT, mindfulness, meditation and yoga.
Are you finding it hard to be motivated? Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you a new parent and are feeling overwhelmed by your new bundle of joy? If you are feeling any of these things therapy can be a space to find balance and manage your feelings of overwhelm, anxiousness and sadness.
(312) 262-2016 View (312) 262-2016
Photo of Dr. Jonah Waseberg, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jonah Waseberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
He also integrates other therapeutic approaches such Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, ACT, Existentialism, Trauma-Informed, Scientific Evidence Based, Mindfulness, Concierge, and more.
Dr.Waseberg is therapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals struggle with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, agoraphobia, bipolar/borderline, alcohol/drugs, addiction,etc.He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy.The drive of his clinical experience comes not only from longtime practicing counseling in private practice and inpatient residential's, but also from his experience as a former clinical director of Partial Hospitalization-PHP and Intensive Outpatient-IOP.
He also integrates other therapeutic approaches such Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, ACT, Existentialism, Trauma-Informed, Scientific Evidence Based, Mindfulness, Concierge, and more.
Dr.Waseberg is therapist and professor of counseling psychology. He helps individuals struggle with relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, grief, abandonment, anger, OCD, social anxiety, phobia, agoraphobia, bipolar/borderline, alcohol/drugs, addiction,etc.He digs deep into the roots of your underlying issues in a safe non-judgmental space with empathy.The drive of his clinical experience comes not only from longtime practicing counseling in private practice and inpatient residential's, but also from his experience as a former clinical director of Partial Hospitalization-PHP and Intensive Outpatient-IOP.
(773) 974-6274 View (773) 974-6274
Photo of Michal Rosenberg, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Michal Rosenberg
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy.
Welcome to Michal Rosenberg, Psy.D., PLLC! I work with primarily adults with a variety of presentations such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), developmental disorders, learning disorders, ADHD, and mood disorders, as well as trauma and challenges related to identity formation. I practice using the cultural humility lens, open and accepting those from all backgrounds including but not limited to aspects of racial identity, LGBTQIA+ communities, those with disabilities, ethnic identities, and religions.
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, and Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy.
Welcome to Michal Rosenberg, Psy.D., PLLC! I work with primarily adults with a variety of presentations such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), developmental disorders, learning disorders, ADHD, and mood disorders, as well as trauma and challenges related to identity formation. I practice using the cultural humility lens, open and accepting those from all backgrounds including but not limited to aspects of racial identity, LGBTQIA+ communities, those with disabilities, ethnic identities, and religions.
(872) 278-5712 View (872) 278-5712
Photo of Jessica Kuhnen, LCSW, MSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Kuhnen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
I utilize interventions that have been researched and proven to be effective such as cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and mindfulness techniques.
My name is Jessica Kuhnen, LCSW. Masters awarded from University of Chicago. Owner of Hyde Park Center for Healing LLC. I treat clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, and or PTSD/complex trauma. If you have experienced one very traumatic event or several over the span of your lifetime-managing your emotions, daily life tasks and or maintaining relationships can feel really hard.
I utilize interventions that have been researched and proven to be effective such as cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and mindfulness techniques.
My name is Jessica Kuhnen, LCSW. Masters awarded from University of Chicago. Owner of Hyde Park Center for Healing LLC. I treat clients struggling with grief, depression, anxiety, and or PTSD/complex trauma. If you have experienced one very traumatic event or several over the span of your lifetime-managing your emotions, daily life tasks and or maintaining relationships can feel really hard.
(773) 570-2572 View (773) 570-2572
Photo of Lola Ladimir, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lola Ladimir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) practicing a client-centered strength-based approach, incorporating a focus on mindfulness to promote mental well-being and strength of Self. This approach encourages a collaborative therapeutic relationship to facilitate healing and growth. Through my work as a therapist, I am reminded daily of the resilient nature of the human spirit. From experiences with disappointment to unimaginable trauma, people find the courage to ask for help and to move forward.
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) practicing a client-centered strength-based approach, incorporating a focus on mindfulness to promote mental well-being and strength of Self. This approach encourages a collaborative therapeutic relationship to facilitate healing and growth. Through my work as a therapist, I am reminded daily of the resilient nature of the human spirit. From experiences with disappointment to unimaginable trauma, people find the courage to ask for help and to move forward.
(872) 259-9856 View (872) 259-9856
Photo of Hattie Stein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hattie Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Whether clients have been in therapy before or are seeking a therapist for the first time, Hattie recognizes the challenges of starting with someone new. She primarily uses ACT which combines cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices to help clients achieve their goals. Hattie draws from psychodynamic therapy, DBT, and internal family systems as well, tailoring her approach to each individual. Hattie focuses on the mind-body connection throughout her work. She sees the client-therapist relationship as foundational to effective therapy and fosters an atmosphere of warmth and compassion.
Whether clients have been in therapy before or are seeking a therapist for the first time, Hattie recognizes the challenges of starting with someone new. She primarily uses ACT which combines cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices to help clients achieve their goals. Hattie draws from psychodynamic therapy, DBT, and internal family systems as well, tailoring her approach to each individual. Hattie focuses on the mind-body connection throughout her work. She sees the client-therapist relationship as foundational to effective therapy and fosters an atmosphere of warmth and compassion.
(872) 278-3514 View (872) 278-3514
Photo of Becca Lustig, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becca Lustig
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I draw from a number of evidence-based approaches including ACT, CBT, exposure-based therapies, and other mindfulness-based interventions to help clients develop healthy coping skills and work towards achieving their goals.
Taking the step to begin (or revisit) therapy can be stressful and nerve-wracking. It often requires bravery: a willingness to go within to explore one’s values as well as one’s struggles. However, it can be the key to unlock tools to live a more meaningful, authentic, and happy life. Through therapy, we will work together for you to feel your best and cope with the ups, downs, and everything in between that life presents. My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, family conflict, infertility, perinatal support, and women’s health issues.
I draw from a number of evidence-based approaches including ACT, CBT, exposure-based therapies, and other mindfulness-based interventions to help clients develop healthy coping skills and work towards achieving their goals.
Taking the step to begin (or revisit) therapy can be stressful and nerve-wracking. It often requires bravery: a willingness to go within to explore one’s values as well as one’s struggles. However, it can be the key to unlock tools to live a more meaningful, authentic, and happy life. Through therapy, we will work together for you to feel your best and cope with the ups, downs, and everything in between that life presents. My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, family conflict, infertility, perinatal support, and women’s health issues.
(708) 726-0742 View (708) 726-0742
Photo of Aeysha Kaeley, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aeysha Kaeley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I focus on the mind-body-spirit connection and how mindfulness can be used for healing and assisting clients on their journey to personal development.
I have experience working with clients with concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relationships, phase of life problems, eating disorders, ADHD, and self-esteem issues, as well as navigating conflicts.
I focus on the mind-body-spirit connection and how mindfulness can be used for healing and assisting clients on their journey to personal development.
I have experience working with clients with concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, relationships, phase of life problems, eating disorders, ADHD, and self-esteem issues, as well as navigating conflicts.
(847) 472-0824 View (847) 472-0824
Photo of Agnes Starr, Pre-Licensed Professional
Agnes Starr
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Drawing from Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic approaches I help uncover blockages that hold clients back and facilitate healing.
Each path to healing is unique. My relational approach to therapy is collaborative and guided by compassion, understanding, and meaning. It takes courage and resilience to process difficult emotions, sit with grief and painful experiences, or face confusion. My priority in session is to offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their experience safely while finding a meaningful way forward. Drawing from a holistic blend of approaches, clients can discover their own strength, clarity, and wisdom and become empowered to build lives that are more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling.
Drawing from Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic approaches I help uncover blockages that hold clients back and facilitate healing.
Each path to healing is unique. My relational approach to therapy is collaborative and guided by compassion, understanding, and meaning. It takes courage and resilience to process difficult emotions, sit with grief and painful experiences, or face confusion. My priority in session is to offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their experience safely while finding a meaningful way forward. Drawing from a holistic blend of approaches, clients can discover their own strength, clarity, and wisdom and become empowered to build lives that are more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling.
(312) 880-9321 View (312) 880-9321
Photo of Sheil Shah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheil Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I practice with a holistic approach, combining aspects of acceptance based interventions, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories, along with mindfulness and creativity to cultivate growth and help guide change.
Moving towards change can be one of the most difficult steps, even when it’s the step we want to take. Stuck, hurt, scared, or lost; finding your path again is possible. We can start with where you are and work together in understanding your thoughts and emotions so you can move towards living a life where you feel your most authentic self. Whether you want to work through coping with different moods, breaking thought patterns, have other specific goals, or simply need someone to process weekly stressors with, I hope to provide a safe, trusting, non-judgmental space for you to reflect, heal, and grow.
I practice with a holistic approach, combining aspects of acceptance based interventions, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral theories, along with mindfulness and creativity to cultivate growth and help guide change.
Moving towards change can be one of the most difficult steps, even when it’s the step we want to take. Stuck, hurt, scared, or lost; finding your path again is possible. We can start with where you are and work together in understanding your thoughts and emotions so you can move towards living a life where you feel your most authentic self. Whether you want to work through coping with different moods, breaking thought patterns, have other specific goals, or simply need someone to process weekly stressors with, I hope to provide a safe, trusting, non-judgmental space for you to reflect, heal, and grow.
(773) 922-9024 View (773) 922-9024
Photo of Rachel Kardon, LPC, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Kardon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EdS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
My approach is holistic with a focus on trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and strengths-based tools to support clients.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
My approach is holistic with a focus on trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and strengths-based tools to support clients.
It takes great courage to come to therapy, and the most important part of being a clinician is the therapeutic relationship I develop with my clients. I provide a space for individuals to feel safe, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities including: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(312) 467-7582 View (312) 467-7582
Photo of Sharon Steckler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Steckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
(847) 807-1996 x1 View (847) 807-1996 x1
Photo of Leslie Lund, LCPC, CCATP, Counselor
Leslie Lund
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
Hi I’m Leslie, and I’m excited to work with you! I work with adult clients (18+) on cultivating an awareness of the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based practices, and energy work through the chakra system. I love holding the space for clients to learn how to sit with their feelings, turn down the chatter in their mind, and tune into their intuition. Whether we are using ERP (exposure and response prevention) to face your fears or meditation to learn how to let go, my style consists of down-to-earth humor, playfulness, and compassion.
Hi I’m Leslie, and I’m excited to work with you! I work with adult clients (18+) on cultivating an awareness of the mind, body, and spirit connection by incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness based practices, and energy work through the chakra system. I love holding the space for clients to learn how to sit with their feelings, turn down the chatter in their mind, and tune into their intuition. Whether we are using ERP (exposure and response prevention) to face your fears or meditation to learn how to let go, my style consists of down-to-earth humor, playfulness, and compassion.
(773) 985-6471 View (773) 985-6471
Photo of Emma Weinstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach uses a narrative style informed by a feminist, systemic lens. I incorporate Contextual Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy through metaphor, art, movement, and mindfulness. I support my clients in their self-determination as experts in their lived experiences while meeting them at the intersections of their identities and how they engage with their world. We work to identify patterns as opportunities for growth and change, lean into how emotions impact our bodies and minds, and explore creative methods to live our most meaningful, value driven lives.
My therapeutic approach uses a narrative style informed by a feminist, systemic lens. I incorporate Contextual Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy through metaphor, art, movement, and mindfulness. I support my clients in their self-determination as experts in their lived experiences while meeting them at the intersections of their identities and how they engage with their world. We work to identify patterns as opportunities for growth and change, lean into how emotions impact our bodies and minds, and explore creative methods to live our most meaningful, value driven lives.
(773) 692-9349 View (773) 692-9349
Photo of Nancy Gardner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661
I try to offer you the right mix of approaches- ranging from problem-solving and mindfulness to a much deeper exploration of attachment and how your body is responding to perceived threats.
My passion is to help you feel heard, understood, and hopeful about the possibility of change. You'd be surprised by how much better you may feel after just a few sessions, either in-person or tele-health. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with a number of things at the same time (such as life transitions, anxiety, trauma). My ideal client is someone who is interested in going below surface issues, and- potentially- including some "body-up" work in their therapy.
I try to offer you the right mix of approaches- ranging from problem-solving and mindfulness to a much deeper exploration of attachment and how your body is responding to perceived threats.
My passion is to help you feel heard, understood, and hopeful about the possibility of change. You'd be surprised by how much better you may feel after just a few sessions, either in-person or tele-health. I specialize in working with clients who are struggling with a number of things at the same time (such as life transitions, anxiety, trauma). My ideal client is someone who is interested in going below surface issues, and- potentially- including some "body-up" work in their therapy.
(312) 548-8751 View (312) 548-8751
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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.