Photo of Valerie J Piazza, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Valerie J Piazza
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I use a Mindfulness-based approach, believing each person thrives when they experience a non-judgmental and compassionate acceptance as they work through the challenges they face.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
I use a Mindfulness-based approach, believing each person thrives when they experience a non-judgmental and compassionate acceptance as they work through the challenges they face.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
(773) 672-8656 View (773) 672-8656
Photo of Monique Prohaska-Slattery, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP, Counselor
Monique Prohaska-Slattery
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP
Verified Verified
In sessions I use ACT, CBT, Brainspotting, & Positive Psychology along with EFT, yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, & reiki when appropriate.
Now Accepting NEW Clients for Afternoon & Evening: Are you looking to find peace, perseverance, and resilience through everyday struggles? Imagine what it would feel like to not worry all the time or do the “what-if” dance in your mind. Whether your struggles are about a life transition, a relationship issue, experiencing stress, physical & emotional changes such as peri-menopause and menopause, or anything else that feels like "something's not quite right," finding a safe outlet to express yourself, build your coping skills, and find solutions is where your transformation begins.
In sessions I use ACT, CBT, Brainspotting, & Positive Psychology along with EFT, yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, & reiki when appropriate.
Now Accepting NEW Clients for Afternoon & Evening: Are you looking to find peace, perseverance, and resilience through everyday struggles? Imagine what it would feel like to not worry all the time or do the “what-if” dance in your mind. Whether your struggles are about a life transition, a relationship issue, experiencing stress, physical & emotional changes such as peri-menopause and menopause, or anything else that feels like "something's not quite right," finding a safe outlet to express yourself, build your coping skills, and find solutions is where your transformation begins.
(630) 473-9273 View (630) 473-9273
Photo of Gigi Mary Clinard Borge, MA , NCC, LPC, EMDR, Counselor
Gigi Mary Clinard Borge
Counselor, MA , NCC, LPC, EMDR
Not Verified Not Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
(630) 407-1782 x328 View (630) 407-1782 x328
Photo of Ana Warkocki, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Warkocki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness and Attachment Theory to better understand you as a whole person.
I primarily work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career exploration and life transitions.
I use approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness and Attachment Theory to better understand you as a whole person.
I primarily work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, career exploration and life transitions.
(331) 259-8459 View (331) 259-8459
Photo of Shannon Giovingo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Giovingo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
By blending methods of social work, psychology, mindfulness, somatic experiencing and intuitive energy practices, I will work with you to uncover the hidden pieces of yourself.
Are you a person who struggles in your relationships? Are you an exhausted caregiver, people-pleaser, perfectionist, overachiever, or rescuer who is ready to retire your role? Perhaps you’re seeking to reweave your experiences and want to learn how to peacefully realign with an experienced guide by your side. I help sensitive souls learn to break free from reactivity to external circumstances and repair their relationships by creating compassionate insight to their inner worlds.
By blending methods of social work, psychology, mindfulness, somatic experiencing and intuitive energy practices, I will work with you to uncover the hidden pieces of yourself.
Are you a person who struggles in your relationships? Are you an exhausted caregiver, people-pleaser, perfectionist, overachiever, or rescuer who is ready to retire your role? Perhaps you’re seeking to reweave your experiences and want to learn how to peacefully realign with an experienced guide by your side. I help sensitive souls learn to break free from reactivity to external circumstances and repair their relationships by creating compassionate insight to their inner worlds.
(630) 349-2954 View (630) 349-2954
Photo of Robin Denk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Denk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bensenville, IL 60106
Hi, I am Robin Denk, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of clinical experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, emotional abuse, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and attachment theory tailored to your needs. I believe that it is my duty to help others during painful times in their lives ultimately.
Hi, I am Robin Denk, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of clinical experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, emotional abuse, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and attachment theory tailored to your needs. I believe that it is my duty to help others during painful times in their lives ultimately.
(708) 847-9788 View (708) 847-9788
Photo of Emily Beth Koch, MA, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Beth Koch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I infuse my work with CBT, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, etc.
My name is Emily, and my practice/calling as a therapist revolves around co-creating a nurturing space WITH you that empowers desired shifts in your life, according to your unique experiences and values. The human adventure can be complicated, and we are not often taught the skills we need to navigate according to our "true North". I help incrementally increase self-awareness, bolstering wellness and vitality in a way that feels organic and natural to each individual. I believe therapy is not only for what is going "wrong", but for what is right, therefore I focus on strengths and solutions as much as on struggles.
I infuse my work with CBT, IFS, DBT, mindfulness, etc.
My name is Emily, and my practice/calling as a therapist revolves around co-creating a nurturing space WITH you that empowers desired shifts in your life, according to your unique experiences and values. The human adventure can be complicated, and we are not often taught the skills we need to navigate according to our "true North". I help incrementally increase self-awareness, bolstering wellness and vitality in a way that feels organic and natural to each individual. I believe therapy is not only for what is going "wrong", but for what is right, therefore I focus on strengths and solutions as much as on struggles.
(630) 757-8232 View (630) 757-8232
Photo of Dawn M. Miskus, MC, LCPC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Dawn M. Miskus
Counselor, MC, LCPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
Invested in each client's success, I tailor a mix of mindfulness, cognitive/behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS/parts work) approaches as we co-create strategies to reduce stress, overwhelm and emotional flashbacks/limbic hijacks.
Together, we can take mind-boggling considerations that may be weighing on you and break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. My passion is helping find solutions to reduce anxiety and sadness, build confidence, create healthier boundaries and enhance personal and professional relationships. I listen respectfully with warmth and positivity as concerns are heard, more effective communication strategies explored and clearer ways forward created.
Invested in each client's success, I tailor a mix of mindfulness, cognitive/behavioral (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS/parts work) approaches as we co-create strategies to reduce stress, overwhelm and emotional flashbacks/limbic hijacks.
Together, we can take mind-boggling considerations that may be weighing on you and break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces. My passion is helping find solutions to reduce anxiety and sadness, build confidence, create healthier boundaries and enhance personal and professional relationships. I listen respectfully with warmth and positivity as concerns are heard, more effective communication strategies explored and clearer ways forward created.
(630) 448-4563 View (630) 448-4563
Photo of Faida Sahouri, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Faida Sahouri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
I draw from a variety of approaches, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Mindfulness.
Guiding people through difficult times is a virtue of therapy that drew me to this profession. As a counselor, I want to help you to overcome challenges and become the person you hope to become. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach when working with clients. I believe all people have inner strengths, wisdom, and resources, and I want to help you achieve your goals and build connections. I am passionate about navigating your way through self-discovery, personal relationships, and finding resilience within yourself.
I draw from a variety of approaches, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Mindfulness.
Guiding people through difficult times is a virtue of therapy that drew me to this profession. As a counselor, I want to help you to overcome challenges and become the person you hope to become. I use a client-centered, strength-based approach when working with clients. I believe all people have inner strengths, wisdom, and resources, and I want to help you achieve your goals and build connections. I am passionate about navigating your way through self-discovery, personal relationships, and finding resilience within yourself.
(331) 260-0603 View (331) 260-0603
Photo of Tamar Friedman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Hello! I'm Tamar, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children and their families. I have more than 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker & have worked with children and families in a variety of different settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, schools and inpatient psychiatry. I have a warm, supportive and empathic approach and use my knowledge of child development, attachment, play therapy, mindfulness, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy to help children manage their feelings, improve self esteem, work through challenges and improve behavior.
Hello! I'm Tamar, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children and their families. I have more than 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker & have worked with children and families in a variety of different settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, schools and inpatient psychiatry. I have a warm, supportive and empathic approach and use my knowledge of child development, attachment, play therapy, mindfulness, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy to help children manage their feelings, improve self esteem, work through challenges and improve behavior.
(331) 316-8284 View (331) 316-8284
Photo of Christine A Barker, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Christine A Barker
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I use mindfulness, CBT, CPT, and EFT in many of my sessions.
Hi there! I am Christine :) I am a passionate-practicing LCPC in North Naperville. I have over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults who have problematic relationships, childhood issues, and who feel stuck in their present life. It might be trauma, depression, anxiety, but whatever it is we can help you get "unstuck" together. I believe everyone has potential to help themselves, but sometimes we need some guidance. Many of us weren't taught how to deal with our emotions and feelings, and as a result, our adult lives suffer in ways we aren't educated to fix. I am here to help guide YOU to your BEST SELF.
I use mindfulness, CBT, CPT, and EFT in many of my sessions.
Hi there! I am Christine :) I am a passionate-practicing LCPC in North Naperville. I have over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults who have problematic relationships, childhood issues, and who feel stuck in their present life. It might be trauma, depression, anxiety, but whatever it is we can help you get "unstuck" together. I believe everyone has potential to help themselves, but sometimes we need some guidance. Many of us weren't taught how to deal with our emotions and feelings, and as a result, our adult lives suffer in ways we aren't educated to fix. I am here to help guide YOU to your BEST SELF.
(630) 581-2505 View (630) 581-2505
Photo of Dr. Linda M Heying, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Linda M Heying
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I am trained in traditional family systems theory, mindfulness practice, internal family systems and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
Feeling stuck? Feeling like you have lost control of your life? Your relationships? Let me help you get unstuck and regain control! Individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and self-esteem and couples facing a variety of life situations and/or reconfiguring as step-families have created success stories as a result of our work together. These 20+ years of success stories stem from collaborating with clients to create realistic therapeutic goals and unique plans to attain them.
I am trained in traditional family systems theory, mindfulness practice, internal family systems and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
Feeling stuck? Feeling like you have lost control of your life? Your relationships? Let me help you get unstuck and regain control! Individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and self-esteem and couples facing a variety of life situations and/or reconfiguring as step-families have created success stories as a result of our work together. These 20+ years of success stories stem from collaborating with clients to create realistic therapeutic goals and unique plans to attain them.
(630) 451-8773 View (630) 451-8773
Photo of Dawn Krawczyk, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Dawn Krawczyk
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Expanding perceptions, altering negative coping mechanisms, and using mindfulness skills are customarily a part of the healing process.
Hello. My therapeutic experience is layered with an emphasis on relational concerns, problematic personality traits, and mood disorders. I attend to clients with psychological, emotional, and physical trauma and/or neglect. Support is offered for recovery from narcissistic or borderline personality abuse. I am a Certified Sexual Assault Crisis Counselor and trained in Domestic Violence, EMDR, and Divorce Mediation. I treat clients who endure anxiety, depression, anger, grief, attachment, identity, and low self-esteem concerns. I assist with life transitions, stress management, family conflict, and parenting skills.
Expanding perceptions, altering negative coping mechanisms, and using mindfulness skills are customarily a part of the healing process.
Hello. My therapeutic experience is layered with an emphasis on relational concerns, problematic personality traits, and mood disorders. I attend to clients with psychological, emotional, and physical trauma and/or neglect. Support is offered for recovery from narcissistic or borderline personality abuse. I am a Certified Sexual Assault Crisis Counselor and trained in Domestic Violence, EMDR, and Divorce Mediation. I treat clients who endure anxiety, depression, anger, grief, attachment, identity, and low self-esteem concerns. I assist with life transitions, stress management, family conflict, and parenting skills.
(630) 282-6955 View (630) 282-6955
Photo of Ronna Buckun, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronna Buckun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/ Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Ronna Buckun is a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working with aging adults, adults, and their families. Her approach to therapy balances her genuineness, humor, and compassion with the focus on problem-solving and client growth. She possesses a direct, yet comforting style. Ronna specializes in geriatric well-being, relational and family issues. She has a great deal of experience working with grief and loss, aging issues, adjustment disorders, and health and wellness. Her methods of practice include Cognitive Behavioral, Relaxation/ Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(331) 256-2756 View (331) 256-2756
Photo of Lashaun Dumas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lashaun Dumas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Hi, my name is La Shaun Dumas, I am a licensed clinical social worker. My approach to therapy includes implementing active listening skills and providing positive regard in an effort to establish a rapport that will may allow for genuine information sharing. Areas of focus include, trauma-informed engaging, childhood developmental stages awareness, competencies regarding LGBTQ+, dating violence/abuse, anxiety disorders, mindfulness, and emotional wellness.
Hi, my name is La Shaun Dumas, I am a licensed clinical social worker. My approach to therapy includes implementing active listening skills and providing positive regard in an effort to establish a rapport that will may allow for genuine information sharing. Areas of focus include, trauma-informed engaging, childhood developmental stages awareness, competencies regarding LGBTQ+, dating violence/abuse, anxiety disorders, mindfulness, and emotional wellness.
(773) 694-9274 View (773) 694-9274
Photo of Merry F Walensa, LPCC
Merry F Walensa
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am focusing on long distance therapy work with clients of any age, at least 18 years & older throughout California, North to South. I am using an integrative approach-Cognitive and Dialectic Behavioral Therapies, in addition to working with belief systems, spirituality and philosophies. I use a ‘healthy life’ style approach giving assignments, tools and informational resources, so that my clients become the proactive creators of their own life stories. We do journaling, mindfulness together as part of therapy. We are designing a road map to the life you wish to lead, courageously & joyfully. Empowerment is the key.
I am focusing on long distance therapy work with clients of any age, at least 18 years & older throughout California, North to South. I am using an integrative approach-Cognitive and Dialectic Behavioral Therapies, in addition to working with belief systems, spirituality and philosophies. I use a ‘healthy life’ style approach giving assignments, tools and informational resources, so that my clients become the proactive creators of their own life stories. We do journaling, mindfulness together as part of therapy. We are designing a road map to the life you wish to lead, courageously & joyfully. Empowerment is the key.
(630) 576-9750 View (630) 576-9750
Photo of Christine Szewczyk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Szewczyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
Based on my experience in multiple settings, I take an eclectic approach to treatment and frequently utilize cognitive and mindfulness based modalities.
I believe that therapy can be an invaluable tool for growth, and I am honored when I can be a part of someone’s journey toward healing. Whether you are new to therapy or have tried it before, my aim is to help you identify and achieve your goals while also maintaining a compassionate and flexible perspective. I realize that everyone has their own pace for engaging in therapeutic work, and I hope to build a collaborative relationship around this.
Based on my experience in multiple settings, I take an eclectic approach to treatment and frequently utilize cognitive and mindfulness based modalities.
I believe that therapy can be an invaluable tool for growth, and I am honored when I can be a part of someone’s journey toward healing. Whether you are new to therapy or have tried it before, my aim is to help you identify and achieve your goals while also maintaining a compassionate and flexible perspective. I realize that everyone has their own pace for engaging in therapeutic work, and I hope to build a collaborative relationship around this.
(708) 367-6688 View (708) 367-6688
Photo of Amanda Kapadia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kapadia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Self Compassion and Psychodynamic treatments that are tailored to each client.
I know what's happening. Your scrolling over these profiles, overwhelmed with trying to find a therapist who seems like a good fit. I get it! Choosing someone to trust with your valuable feelings is stressful. Especially, given the reasons you are looking to begin with. Maybe you are struggling with your mood, trauma, grief, or strained relationships. Or, you need help to achieve healthy emotional boundaries and coping. Perhaps, you've not had a quality night's sleep in years and need to make a change. I'm confident I can help you with all those things and more.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Self Compassion and Psychodynamic treatments that are tailored to each client.
I know what's happening. Your scrolling over these profiles, overwhelmed with trying to find a therapist who seems like a good fit. I get it! Choosing someone to trust with your valuable feelings is stressful. Especially, given the reasons you are looking to begin with. Maybe you are struggling with your mood, trauma, grief, or strained relationships. Or, you need help to achieve healthy emotional boundaries and coping. Perhaps, you've not had a quality night's sleep in years and need to make a change. I'm confident I can help you with all those things and more.
(331) 444-7014 View (331) 444-7014
Photo of Dr. Nahrain D Tavolacci, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nahrain D Tavolacci
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roselle, IL 60172
I value a client-centered approach, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy interventions, and mindfulness techniques.
I am here to walk the journey alongside you. Life presents many challenges and adapting to a new "normal" is hard and perception can be glum. It feels like your sense of direction is confusing and uncertain. Relationships have lost their meaning, abundance and joy feel unattainable, and support stands at too far a distance for you to feel grounded in love and security.
I value a client-centered approach, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy interventions, and mindfulness techniques.
I am here to walk the journey alongside you. Life presents many challenges and adapting to a new "normal" is hard and perception can be glum. It feels like your sense of direction is confusing and uncertain. Relationships have lost their meaning, abundance and joy feel unattainable, and support stands at too far a distance for you to feel grounded in love and security.
(630) 283-7710 View (630) 283-7710
Photo of Hannah Anderson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
In session she implements CBT, DBT, ACT, Trauma Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, Multicultural lens, and Strengths-Based approaches in order to meet a client's needs.
Hannah understands there is courage and bravery when embarking on the journey of therapy. She is experienced in fostering an environment where clients are met with compassion, safety, and support. We all travel different paths in life, when working with clients Hannah tailors treatment to each individual. This is a collaborative process where clients nurture their sense of self efficacy.
In session she implements CBT, DBT, ACT, Trauma Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, Multicultural lens, and Strengths-Based approaches in order to meet a client's needs.
Hannah understands there is courage and bravery when embarking on the journey of therapy. She is experienced in fostering an environment where clients are met with compassion, safety, and support. We all travel different paths in life, when working with clients Hannah tailors treatment to each individual. This is a collaborative process where clients nurture their sense of self efficacy.
(331) 259-9099 x5 View (331) 259-9099 x5
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See more therapy options for Du Page County

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.