Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Melrose Park, IL

Roberta Stahnke
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60160
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
I provide cognitive behavioral psychotherapy for education, support and management of symptoms of all mental disorders including depression, anxiety and Bipolar Disorder. I teach specific stress management, time management and other coping skills. I administer comprehensive neuropsychological and psychological testing batteries, including cognitive, memory, ADHD and projective testing. My areas of expertise include women's issues, geriatrics, veteran's issues and issues related to managing chronic medical illnesses and pain. My focus is on addressing each client's personal needs and problems.
(708) 218-9147 View (708) 218-9147
Photo of Megan Wills, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Wills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melrose Park, IL 60160
Waitlist for new clients
Megan Wills is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and adolescents. She practices from a relational, trauma-informed, person-centered, and intersectional feminist lens. Megan believes that the foundation of good therapy is a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. She works to create a space where clients can experience safety, support, and unconditional positive regard, build insight into their values, and live a better life.
Megan Wills is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults and adolescents. She practices from a relational, trauma-informed, person-centered, and intersectional feminist lens. Megan believes that the foundation of good therapy is a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. She works to create a space where clients can experience safety, support, and unconditional positive regard, build insight into their values, and live a better life.
(708) 501-6268 View (708) 501-6268
Photo of Bertha Davis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bertha Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Melrose Park, IL 60160
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to partnering with clients to identify strategies that can help them work through life’s difficulties. I understand the complex relationship between thinking and emotions, as well as the impact it can have on mood. I treat issues of anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, and (sexual) trauma, substance use/abuse, grief/ loss and complex family dynamics. I have many years of experience of working with diverse populations and assisting them with developing and reaching their goals. I identify as a social work first focusing on life issues to mitigate mental health issues.
(708) 742-8571 View (708) 742-8571
Photo of Yadira Garcia, LSW, MSW, QMHP
Yadira Garcia
LSW, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60161  (Online Only)
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
(773) 243-4781 View (773) 243-4781
Photo of Allie Wills, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Allie Wills
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Melrose Park, IL 60160
Allie Wills is a relational, person-centered, and trauma-informed therapist for adults and adolescents. She works from an intersectional, social justice perspective. In therapy, she focuses on providing a safe space and joining you to help you explore who you want to be and how you want to live. She is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
Allie Wills is a relational, person-centered, and trauma-informed therapist for adults and adolescents. She works from an intersectional, social justice perspective. In therapy, she focuses on providing a safe space and joining you to help you explore who you want to be and how you want to live. She is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
(331) 244-4866 View (331) 244-4866

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Williams, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I use various interventions (CBT, DBT, and mindfulness).
I received my Master’s degree from the University of Illinois – Chicago’s Jane Addams College of Social Work. I have an extensive background of working with teen women and young adults with a passion for those in need. I have a history of working with those who may struggle with anxiety or depression due to a variety of complex traumas or various life circumstances. I’m passionate about meeting people where they are, helping them create goals, figure out how to overcome obstacles, and celebrating them in their victories!
I use various interventions (CBT, DBT, and mindfulness).
I received my Master’s degree from the University of Illinois – Chicago’s Jane Addams College of Social Work. I have an extensive background of working with teen women and young adults with a passion for those in need. I have a history of working with those who may struggle with anxiety or depression due to a variety of complex traumas or various life circumstances. I’m passionate about meeting people where they are, helping them create goals, figure out how to overcome obstacles, and celebrating them in their victories!
(708) 249-3244 View (708) 249-3244
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Therapeutic interventions that we use span from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness strategies, solution focused therapy, progressive relaxation and experiential therapy.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Therapeutic interventions that we use span from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness strategies, solution focused therapy, progressive relaxation and experiential therapy.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Reign Erickson, LSW, NMT L 1, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reign Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, NMT L 1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My approaches to therapy include mindfulness, body regulation, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and DBT.
I am a compassionate, engaged therapist who focuses on working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. I have experience working with kids as young as 4 years old, and employ methods rooted in developmental insights and biological sensitivity. I enjoy working with children and teens experiencing big feelings and emotional outbursts. My therapy practice embraces the values of all people having strengths, resilience, and worth. I am honored to aid with healing and authentic growth.
My approaches to therapy include mindfulness, body regulation, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and DBT.
I am a compassionate, engaged therapist who focuses on working with children, adolescents, young adults, and parents. I have experience working with kids as young as 4 years old, and employ methods rooted in developmental insights and biological sensitivity. I enjoy working with children and teens experiencing big feelings and emotional outbursts. My therapy practice embraces the values of all people having strengths, resilience, and worth. I am honored to aid with healing and authentic growth.
(708) 991-8630 View (708) 991-8630
Photo of Sarah Perez, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Perez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I draw from several treatment models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness concepts, Family Systems, and most of all a strength based, client centered approach to promote emotional healing, healthy skill building, and sustainable change.
Life can be full of overwhelming challenges. Through therapy I can help you overcome these struggles and work towards meeting your own personal goals and improving your overall quality of life. I am a licensed clinical counselor trained in working with individuals and families who are looking for symptom relief, personal growth, or to improve their relationships.
I draw from several treatment models including Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness concepts, Family Systems, and most of all a strength based, client centered approach to promote emotional healing, healthy skill building, and sustainable change.
Life can be full of overwhelming challenges. Through therapy I can help you overcome these struggles and work towards meeting your own personal goals and improving your overall quality of life. I am a licensed clinical counselor trained in working with individuals and families who are looking for symptom relief, personal growth, or to improve their relationships.
(872) 241-1073 View (872) 241-1073
Photo of Madigan Kent, LCSW, SEP, SSP, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madigan Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, SSP, Coach
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I use Internal Family System (IFS) to reclaim disconnected parts of self, mindfulness and meditation to support better stress responses, DBT and ACT to reshape black and white thinking and Coaching to do forward thinking work.
Hello! And welcome to my practice. I have a couple of specialities. First, I help sufferers of trauma become safely emobodied after years of disconnection and fear of feeling. Second, I help clients build nervous system regulation and secure attachment so they may feel safer and more free in the world. Third, I coach clients make room for their true 'selves' in their lives, without sacrificing family or connection, blending individuation/exploration with secure attachment. And finally, I help clients remove barriers between them and their goals so they may lead more purpose driven lives for themselves and those around them.
I use Internal Family System (IFS) to reclaim disconnected parts of self, mindfulness and meditation to support better stress responses, DBT and ACT to reshape black and white thinking and Coaching to do forward thinking work.
Hello! And welcome to my practice. I have a couple of specialities. First, I help sufferers of trauma become safely emobodied after years of disconnection and fear of feeling. Second, I help clients build nervous system regulation and secure attachment so they may feel safer and more free in the world. Third, I coach clients make room for their true 'selves' in their lives, without sacrificing family or connection, blending individuation/exploration with secure attachment. And finally, I help clients remove barriers between them and their goals so they may lead more purpose driven lives for themselves and those around them.
(872) 225-2150 View (872) 225-2150
Photo of Dr. Patty Johnson - Nia Integrative Healing, PsyD, Psychologist
Nia Integrative Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
We are wired with an affinity toward healing. Therapy is a powerful tool in attaining wellness. But what if we went beyond talk therapy by also integrating meditation and biofeedback to address trauma, depression, inattention and other areas of mental health? We will explore your intrinsic ability to harness the power of mindfulness and breath work to reduce chronic pain and other physical issues impacted by stress. We will tap into nutrition's significant role in mental health, including mood and memory. We are a team of psychological providers and a preventative care physician collaborating with you toward your healing journey.
(708) 628-5456 View (708) 628-5456
Photo of Noami Hernandez, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Noami Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My approach is influenced but not limited to CBT, Trauma focused CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Psycho therapy, Solution Focused, Strength Based, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness and Strength Based therapy.
I specialize in working with children, teen and young adults with Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has knowledge working with clients who experience trauma, have been impacted by an active DCFS case, and survivors of domestic violence. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, physical/sexual/emotional/financial abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, family separations and dynamics, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I want to to meet clients where they are at in their journey and work alongside them to achieve their goals. Your mental health matters!
My approach is influenced but not limited to CBT, Trauma focused CBT, DBT, Psychodynamic, Psycho therapy, Solution Focused, Strength Based, Interpersonal Therapy, Mindfulness and Strength Based therapy.
I specialize in working with children, teen and young adults with Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and has knowledge working with clients who experience trauma, have been impacted by an active DCFS case, and survivors of domestic violence. I work with clients who experience anxiety, depression, physical/sexual/emotional/financial abuse, self-harm, suicidal ideation, family separations and dynamics, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I want to to meet clients where they are at in their journey and work alongside them to achieve their goals. Your mental health matters!
(708) 726-0913 View (708) 726-0913
Photo of Debra Honig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Honig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northlake, IL 60164
Debra utilizes an eclectic treatment approach incorporating expressive therapies, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Debra Honig, MSW, LCSW, is a well-seasoned, enthusiastic, and authentic pediatric psychotherapist. She has practiced in many settings in the Chicago area, with a focus on children and their families. Debra uses humor, empathy, and creativity to help children and their families to navigate life's expected and unexpected challenges. Debra uses an eclectic and warm style and focuses on the client's strengths and uniqueness. Debra offers specialization in the areas of self-esteem, ADHD, coping with illness and life transitions, divorce, grief, loss, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Debra utilizes an eclectic treatment approach incorporating expressive therapies, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Debra Honig, MSW, LCSW, is a well-seasoned, enthusiastic, and authentic pediatric psychotherapist. She has practiced in many settings in the Chicago area, with a focus on children and their families. Debra uses humor, empathy, and creativity to help children and their families to navigate life's expected and unexpected challenges. Debra uses an eclectic and warm style and focuses on the client's strengths and uniqueness. Debra offers specialization in the areas of self-esteem, ADHD, coping with illness and life transitions, divorce, grief, loss, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(847) 512-3769 View (847) 512-3769
Photo of Wendy Gutierrez, LCPC
Wendy Gutierrez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
River Grove, IL 60171  (Online Only)
Hola! Buenos Días! My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience in working with a diverse population and Latin Community. I specialize in treatment for Depression, Grief, Relationship Stress, Anger Management, Trauma, Anxiety and Mood Disorders. My clinical approach aims to be culturally sensitive to the needs of the client. Counseling Treatment is based on a combination of a holistic approach, mindfulness, client centered approach, emotional regulation and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hola! Buenos Días! My name is Wendy Gutierrez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychotherapist with 10 years of clinical experience in working with a diverse population and Latin Community. I specialize in treatment for Depression, Grief, Relationship Stress, Anger Management, Trauma, Anxiety and Mood Disorders. My clinical approach aims to be culturally sensitive to the needs of the client. Counseling Treatment is based on a combination of a holistic approach, mindfulness, client centered approach, emotional regulation and cognitive behavioral therapy.
(708) 847-6647 View (708) 847-6647
Photo of Ken Aaron Burnstein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Aaron Burnstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I also use mindfulness based therapy, and behavioral directives in my work with anger management, and anxiety.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
I also use mindfulness based therapy, and behavioral directives in my work with anger management, and anxiety.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
(708) 406-6651 View (708) 406-6651
Photo of Kate Wester, LCPC, RSMT, CYT, Counselor
Kate Wester
Counselor, LCPC, RSMT, CYT
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Through a combination of talk therapy, somatic (body-based) techniques, and mindfulness practices, we will navigate your past experiences and develop new ways of relating.
Whether you are dealing with past trauma, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation. It is possible. You can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others, and create meaningful connections in your life. Using a holistic approach and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I help individuals heal from trauma and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and empowerment.
Through a combination of talk therapy, somatic (body-based) techniques, and mindfulness practices, we will navigate your past experiences and develop new ways of relating.
Whether you are dealing with past trauma, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation. It is possible. You can cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself, develop healthier ways of relating to yourself and others, and create meaningful connections in your life. Using a holistic approach and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, I help individuals heal from trauma and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and empowerment.
(708) 787-4687 View (708) 787-4687
Photo of Theressa L. LaBarrie, PhD, Psychologist
Theressa L. LaBarrie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
Mindfulness-based treatments aid stress and pain reduction, and improve focus.
Are you, your child, or your family having difficulty managing emotions, thoughts, or navigating interactions? I can help. With my warm and dedicated style, you will be heard, supported, and empowered. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other scientifically-proven therapies. With 14+ yrs of experience, I have worked with adults, youth, and families in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and university counseling and community mental health centers. I completed my residency at Harvard Medical School/Boston Children's Hospital and a post-doctoral fellowship at Northwestern University/The Family Institute.
Mindfulness-based treatments aid stress and pain reduction, and improve focus.
Are you, your child, or your family having difficulty managing emotions, thoughts, or navigating interactions? I can help. With my warm and dedicated style, you will be heard, supported, and empowered. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other scientifically-proven therapies. With 14+ yrs of experience, I have worked with adults, youth, and families in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and university counseling and community mental health centers. I completed my residency at Harvard Medical School/Boston Children's Hospital and a post-doctoral fellowship at Northwestern University/The Family Institute.
(708) 905-4190 View (708) 905-4190
Photo of Jamilah Hines, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jamilah Hines
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
My approach to therapy is centered on client empowerment, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
NOW accepting new clients! Has life become overwhelming? Do you often feel defeated or unsure of your purpose? Please know that you are not alone in your experiences. It can be challenging to trust enough to talk about what you are going through. I provide a safe and sacred space to talk about your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in becoming the best version of yourself.
My approach to therapy is centered on client empowerment, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness Therapy.
NOW accepting new clients! Has life become overwhelming? Do you often feel defeated or unsure of your purpose? Please know that you are not alone in your experiences. It can be challenging to trust enough to talk about what you are going through. I provide a safe and sacred space to talk about your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My goal is to meet you where you are and support you in becoming the best version of yourself.
(872) 266-8258 View (872) 266-8258
Photo of Marianne Ogbonnaya, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Marianne Ogbonnaya
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
I also use Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Mindfulness techniques.
I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants. Whether you're feeling stuck, depressed, helpless, anxious, worried, unsure, or insecure you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is creating a safe and supportive environment to navigate life's challenges. Wherever you may be on that journey, I want to help support you!
I also use Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as Mindfulness techniques.
I specialize in self-esteem issues and will work with you to increase your confidence and sense of well-being. I work with a variety of individuals and provide culturally affirming counselling to BIPOC, with a focus on first-generation and immigrants. Whether you're feeling stuck, depressed, helpless, anxious, worried, unsure, or insecure you deserve to be heard and understood. My passion is creating a safe and supportive environment to navigate life's challenges. Wherever you may be on that journey, I want to help support you!
(708) 634-4942 View (708) 634-4942
Photo of Caitlin M Wurster, PsyD, Psychologist
Caitlin M Wurster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
My primary clinical orientation is psychodynamic, though I do also draw on interventions from multiple orientations, including interpersonal therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices, depending on the individual needs of each client.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I believe that we all must weather challenges throughout life, and sometimes we need assistance to endure and make sense of these trials in a way that helps us to grow into the best versions of ourselves. My goal as a therapist is to assist children, adolescents, adults, and familes through these times by helping them achieve better understandings of personal choices, strengths, and resilience. In this way, clients come to see themselves as individuals that are capable of change in order to live fulfilling lives.
My primary clinical orientation is psychodynamic, though I do also draw on interventions from multiple orientations, including interpersonal therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices, depending on the individual needs of each client.
LifeSpan Counseling & Psychological Services offers services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I believe that we all must weather challenges throughout life, and sometimes we need assistance to endure and make sense of these trials in a way that helps us to grow into the best versions of ourselves. My goal as a therapist is to assist children, adolescents, adults, and familes through these times by helping them achieve better understandings of personal choices, strengths, and resilience. In this way, clients come to see themselves as individuals that are capable of change in order to live fulfilling lives.
(708) 315-7372 View (708) 315-7372

See more therapy options for Melrose Park

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.