Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Lisle, IL

Photo of Todd Mokos, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd Mokos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
Implementing a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), I work with clients to teach them important skills to cultivate mindfulness, overcome obstacles, pursue meaningful goals, and secure mental well-being.
You're reading this because you need an expert who can help you. Mental health issues can be devastating, and so it's critically important that you receive the attention and care that you deserve. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, high-functioning psychosis, behavioral issues, or other mental health problems, I'm here to help you get back to living the life that's most important to you.
Implementing a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), and acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), I work with clients to teach them important skills to cultivate mindfulness, overcome obstacles, pursue meaningful goals, and secure mental well-being.
You're reading this because you need an expert who can help you. Mental health issues can be devastating, and so it's critically important that you receive the attention and care that you deserve. Whether you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, addiction, high-functioning psychosis, behavioral issues, or other mental health problems, I'm here to help you get back to living the life that's most important to you.
(331) 246-0575 View (331) 246-0575
Photo of Ivonne Estrada, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ivonne Estrada
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I also utilize play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques.
At a young age, you can feel overwhelmed and misunderstood; I am here to walk with you along the way and provide a safe space for you, your experiences, and your vulnerability. I am passionate about helping you heal and grow as an individual by allowing you to share your story in a nonjudgmental setting with grace and compassion. I hope that I can make a positive impact on your journey.
I also utilize play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques.
At a young age, you can feel overwhelmed and misunderstood; I am here to walk with you along the way and provide a safe space for you, your experiences, and your vulnerability. I am passionate about helping you heal and grow as an individual by allowing you to share your story in a nonjudgmental setting with grace and compassion. I hope that I can make a positive impact on your journey.
(331) 258-3322 View (331) 258-3322
Photo of Travis Satterlee, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Travis Satterlee
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I like to include movement, mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and sports to help clients manage anxiety and stress, practice goal setting and stress, practice goal setting.
My professional experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) include providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. My experience expands from working as a trainer and facilitator for the PREPARE/ENRICH premarital and marital assessment to guiding families through the challenges of foster care and blended families. My approach to therapy is solutions-focused and includes cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems therapy.
I like to include movement, mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and sports to help clients manage anxiety and stress, practice goal setting and stress, practice goal setting.
My professional experience as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) include providing therapy for children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. My experience expands from working as a trainer and facilitator for the PREPARE/ENRICH premarital and marital assessment to guiding families through the challenges of foster care and blended families. My approach to therapy is solutions-focused and includes cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems therapy.
(331) 259-8417 View (331) 259-8417
Photo of Dawn Sands, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Sands
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I use various techniques such as CBT, ACT, DBT, play therapy and mindfulness interventions to help clients reach their goals.
Starting therapy can be difficult and it takes strength to talk about your experiences, symptoms, and challenges. You may be feeling isolated and no one understands how you are feeling. I’m passionate about creating a supportive and caring environment for clients to help them feel safe sharing their stories without judgment. Therapy is a journey and we will work together to learn strategies to cope, manage, and adapt to symptoms and emotions. I’m here to guide and support you in achieving your goals.
I use various techniques such as CBT, ACT, DBT, play therapy and mindfulness interventions to help clients reach their goals.
Starting therapy can be difficult and it takes strength to talk about your experiences, symptoms, and challenges. You may be feeling isolated and no one understands how you are feeling. I’m passionate about creating a supportive and caring environment for clients to help them feel safe sharing their stories without judgment. Therapy is a journey and we will work together to learn strategies to cope, manage, and adapt to symptoms and emotions. I’m here to guide and support you in achieving your goals.
(331) 216-1108 View (331) 216-1108
Photo of La-Dawn Danielle Levinson, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
La-Dawn Danielle Levinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and other evidence-based interventions, she empowers clients to navigate challenges, fostering a sense of control and mastery over their lives.
Danielle Levinson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. Danielle is a dedicated therapist with over 5 years of experience, passionate about guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys towards resilience and well-being. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse, she combines her extensive experience with compassion and respect to foster empathetic therapeutic relationships. In crisis management, Danielle provides a steadfast presence, offering practical tools and compassionate support during challenging times.
By blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and other evidence-based interventions, she empowers clients to navigate challenges, fostering a sense of control and mastery over their lives.
Danielle Levinson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. Danielle is a dedicated therapist with over 5 years of experience, passionate about guiding individuals and couples through their unique journeys towards resilience and well-being. Specializing in anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance abuse, she combines her extensive experience with compassion and respect to foster empathetic therapeutic relationships. In crisis management, Danielle provides a steadfast presence, offering practical tools and compassionate support during challenging times.
(331) 259-8225 View (331) 259-8225
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 Sheila Corbett, LCPC
Sheila Corbett
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
In therapy, Sheila uses a variety of modalities to meet individual needs, including CBT, DBT, Attachment, Person Centered, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused therapy.
Sheila works with patients, from 15 years old and up. Collaborating with clients, Sheila helps them identify, decrease, manage, and/or eliminate barriers to living a more positive and productive life. Through a “down to earth” attitude, humor, honesty, integrity, and transparency, Sheila earns clients’ trust and builds rapport, helping them obtain the tools they need to help themselves. Sheila earned a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in community agency counseling from St. Xavier University. She works with adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and more.
In therapy, Sheila uses a variety of modalities to meet individual needs, including CBT, DBT, Attachment, Person Centered, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused therapy.
Sheila works with patients, from 15 years old and up. Collaborating with clients, Sheila helps them identify, decrease, manage, and/or eliminate barriers to living a more positive and productive life. Through a “down to earth” attitude, humor, honesty, integrity, and transparency, Sheila earns clients’ trust and builds rapport, helping them obtain the tools they need to help themselves. Sheila earned a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in community agency counseling from St. Xavier University. She works with adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, PTSD, and more.
(331) 259-8982 View (331) 259-8982
Photo of Grazyna Gabi Petersen - Contemporary Wellness, LLC, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Contemporary Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I utilize a variety of techniques derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and others.
“Never give up on someone with a mental illness. When “I” is replaced by “We”, illness becomes wellness” Shannon L Alder. The stress from everyday life can be overwhelming for people of any age, and it can come from a surprising number of sources. Prolonged stress can lead to depression and anxiety, and we may not be sure where it’s coming from or what to do about it. If you are feeling hesitant about starting therapy, know that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness.
I utilize a variety of techniques derived from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness, and others.
“Never give up on someone with a mental illness. When “I” is replaced by “We”, illness becomes wellness” Shannon L Alder. The stress from everyday life can be overwhelming for people of any age, and it can come from a surprising number of sources. Prolonged stress can lead to depression and anxiety, and we may not be sure where it’s coming from or what to do about it. If you are feeling hesitant about starting therapy, know that asking for help is a sign of strength and not weakness.
(872) 259-4512 View (872) 259-4512
Photo of David Rodemaker, PsyD, CH, Psychologist
David Rodemaker
Psychologist, PsyD, CH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, as well as Mindfulness and Narrative Techniques, I work with you in a spirit of openness to identify what is important to you for your well-being and relationships - and take the action needed to make those qualities a part of your life.
I look forward to working with you on making and taking the choices and actions that move you towards building a life filled with meaning based on your values and goals. The struggles we all face, large and small, are part of what define our humanity - be it anxiety, trauma, or confusion. It is the compassion and willingness for intimacy we show to ourselves and others that defines much of the rest. I enjoy working with my clients as they go through the process of defining who and what they want to be and then help them go about achieving it.
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, as well as Mindfulness and Narrative Techniques, I work with you in a spirit of openness to identify what is important to you for your well-being and relationships - and take the action needed to make those qualities a part of your life.
I look forward to working with you on making and taking the choices and actions that move you towards building a life filled with meaning based on your values and goals. The struggles we all face, large and small, are part of what define our humanity - be it anxiety, trauma, or confusion. It is the compassion and willingness for intimacy we show to ourselves and others that defines much of the rest. I enjoy working with my clients as they go through the process of defining who and what they want to be and then help them go about achieving it.
(630) 453-0888 View (630) 453-0888
Photo of James R. Matter, PsyD, Psychologist
James R. Matter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, Adlerian Psychology, and Solutions-Focused Therapy.
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and couples who face diverse challenges. I seek to provide a collaborative and caring environment for processing difficult life events. I encourage individuals to develop healthy ways of caring for themselves as they develop acceptance and greater ownership of their life story.
I specialize in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, Adlerian Psychology, and Solutions-Focused Therapy.
I enjoy working with pre-teens, adolescents, adults, and couples who face diverse challenges. I seek to provide a collaborative and caring environment for processing difficult life events. I encourage individuals to develop healthy ways of caring for themselves as they develop acceptance and greater ownership of their life story.
(630) 426-3830 View (630) 426-3830
Photo of Monique Prohaska-Slattery, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP, Counselor
Monique Prohaska-Slattery
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Waitlist for new clients
In sessions I use ACT, CBT, Brainspotting, & Positive Psychology along with EFT, yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, & reiki when appropriate.
WAITList for New Clients: 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.
WAITList for New Clients: 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 Elizabeth Meyers, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Elizabeth Meyers
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Throughout the therapy process, she provides insight regarding emerging patterns, education related to symptomology, encourages the development of coping skills, stress management, mindfulness, expands parenting skills, and much more.
We are all searching for happiness. We all want our children and partners to be happy. Happiness begins when we are able to let go of the hurt and pain that keeps us stuck. Liz believes in empowering her clients to acknowledge their bravery by seeking therapy and beginning the healing process. It is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable and safe with to share memories, or the painful recollections that are holding you back from becoming the best version of yourself.
Throughout the therapy process, she provides insight regarding emerging patterns, education related to symptomology, encourages the development of coping skills, stress management, mindfulness, expands parenting skills, and much more.
We are all searching for happiness. We all want our children and partners to be happy. Happiness begins when we are able to let go of the hurt and pain that keeps us stuck. Liz believes in empowering her clients to acknowledge their bravery by seeking therapy and beginning the healing process. It is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable and safe with to share memories, or the painful recollections that are holding you back from becoming the best version of yourself.
(630) 360-8829 View (630) 360-8829
Photo of Jordynn Lane, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordynn Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Jordynn Lane is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Jordynn offers an approach of collaboration, mindfulness, empathy, and compassionate care to those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict, trauma, behavioral problems, feeling misunderstood, and any other psychological/emotional distress. Jordynn's experiences working as a counselor in a residential psychiatric facility with children, in a county jail with adult inmates as a group facilitator, and as a therapist at a therapeutic day school have allowed her to see clients through many lenses.
Jordynn Lane is a Licensed Social Worker in Illinois. Jordynn offers an approach of collaboration, mindfulness, empathy, and compassionate care to those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, conflict, trauma, behavioral problems, feeling misunderstood, and any other psychological/emotional distress. Jordynn's experiences working as a counselor in a residential psychiatric facility with children, in a county jail with adult inmates as a group facilitator, and as a therapist at a therapeutic day school have allowed her to see clients through many lenses.
(630) 448-8436 View (630) 448-8436
Photo of Sage Acharya - Mindfulness Sage Acharya, Be Counseling LLC, MSEd, LCPC, RDDP, Counselor
Mindfulness Sage Acharya, Be Counseling LLC
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, RDDP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I offer mindfulness techniques, breath-work instruction, self-compassion practices and brainspotting.
Are you passionate about improving your mental, emotional and spiritual health? Do you want to learn mindfulness practices, along with self-compassion practices to create a fulfilling life where you can find joy in daily life and in your relationships? I can be your guide on this journey and help teach you skills that will lead to insight, wisdom and skillful action. I can help you remove obstacles that get in the way of living your full potential.
I offer mindfulness techniques, breath-work instruction, self-compassion practices and brainspotting.
Are you passionate about improving your mental, emotional and spiritual health? Do you want to learn mindfulness practices, along with self-compassion practices to create a fulfilling life where you can find joy in daily life and in your relationships? I can be your guide on this journey and help teach you skills that will lead to insight, wisdom and skillful action. I can help you remove obstacles that get in the way of living your full potential.
(630) 672-0963 View (630) 672-0963
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
As an Art Therapist/Play Therapist, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner I offer you the freedom to create art, engage in sand tray exploration, and mindfulness to discover your gifts and strengths within.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
As an Art Therapist/Play Therapist, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner I offer you the freedom to create art, engage in sand tray exploration, and mindfulness to discover your gifts and strengths within.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
(331) 244-4868 View (331) 244-4868
Photo of Joanna Inserra, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Inserra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Immediate daytime openings. I believe we are all here to become the best version of ourselves. Together we can work to continue to grow your strengths while taking a look into behaviors and thoughts that shape your choices. I believe in building a strong rapport in a safe environment to reach your full potential. I focus on person-centered growth while using therapeutic techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, person centered, play therapy, and interpersonal therapy to empower all individuals through the process of healing and understanding.
Immediate daytime openings. I believe we are all here to become the best version of ourselves. Together we can work to continue to grow your strengths while taking a look into behaviors and thoughts that shape your choices. I believe in building a strong rapport in a safe environment to reach your full potential. I focus on person-centered growth while using therapeutic techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, person centered, play therapy, and interpersonal therapy to empower all individuals through the process of healing and understanding.
(630) 528-1915 View (630) 528-1915
Photo of Robyn Norman, LCPC, CADC, BCC
Robyn Norman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, BCC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Do you feel stuck and hear yourself saying things like "I've always been this way, it's too late"; "I can't say no"; "There's something wrong with me"; "They'll think I'm selfish"? Together we'll look at beliefs that may be preventing you from experiencing the life you want. I serve as a guide, helping you to clarify your values and goals, identify barriers, and maximize your strengths. You'll practice the skills of observing and accepting yourself, while generating options and making decisions in line with your values and what matters most to you.
Do you feel stuck and hear yourself saying things like "I've always been this way, it's too late"; "I can't say no"; "There's something wrong with me"; "They'll think I'm selfish"? Together we'll look at beliefs that may be preventing you from experiencing the life you want. I serve as a guide, helping you to clarify your values and goals, identify barriers, and maximize your strengths. You'll practice the skills of observing and accepting yourself, while generating options and making decisions in line with your values and what matters most to you.
(630) 672-0467 View (630) 672-0467
Photo of Melissa Grupe, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Grupe
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Pursuing therapy can be a challenging and hard decision. We may feel that seeking help means we are broken, weak, or something is wrong with us. Yet, we are human and we face unexpected challenges daily. This could be work stress, a child who we love but also get overwhelmed with, difficulties within relationships, grief, medical diagnoses, or questioning our role in life. The list is endless of the challenges we face. Emotions are signaling to us that something is off in our lives. A way towards feeling better is to feel heard, understood, and supported.
Pursuing therapy can be a challenging and hard decision. We may feel that seeking help means we are broken, weak, or something is wrong with us. Yet, we are human and we face unexpected challenges daily. This could be work stress, a child who we love but also get overwhelmed with, difficulties within relationships, grief, medical diagnoses, or questioning our role in life. The list is endless of the challenges we face. Emotions are signaling to us that something is off in our lives. A way towards feeling better is to feel heard, understood, and supported.
(331) 246-0916 View (331) 246-0916
Photo of Jackie Weber, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Are you a young adult struggling to form meaningful connections with others? Does your anxiety affect your ability to handle various social situations? Maybe you are a parent struggling to handle the day-to-day stressors of raising children, while finding time to meet your own needs? Perhaps you are looking for support for your teen who is feeling overwhelmed and avoiding school? Each stage of life presents unique and complicated challenges. I specialize in supporting teens, young adults and parents across life stages and transitions.
Are you a young adult struggling to form meaningful connections with others? Does your anxiety affect your ability to handle various social situations? Maybe you are a parent struggling to handle the day-to-day stressors of raising children, while finding time to meet your own needs? Perhaps you are looking for support for your teen who is feeling overwhelmed and avoiding school? Each stage of life presents unique and complicated challenges. I specialize in supporting teens, young adults and parents across life stages and transitions.
(331) 267-4516 x1010 View (331) 267-4516 x1010
Photo of Kenyatta Williams, MA, DMin, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kenyatta Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, DMin
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
With over 16 years of dedicated experience in the human services field, Dr. Kenyatta has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals. Her extensive tenure in the behavioral health field has equipped Dr. Williams with a versatile skill set that allows her to meet each client exactly where they are. She excels in providing invaluable support to individuals grappling with unique challenges, helping them navigate their personal journeys effectively. Dr. Williams is deeply passionate about guiding individuals toward a profound understanding of themselves and empowering them with the essential tools needed.
With over 16 years of dedicated experience in the human services field, Dr. Kenyatta has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals. Her extensive tenure in the behavioral health field has equipped Dr. Williams with a versatile skill set that allows her to meet each client exactly where they are. She excels in providing invaluable support to individuals grappling with unique challenges, helping them navigate their personal journeys effectively. Dr. Williams is deeply passionate about guiding individuals toward a profound understanding of themselves and empowering them with the essential tools needed.
(331) 259-8230 View (331) 259-8230
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.