Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Lauren Rice - Bluebird Counseling Services, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bluebird Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565  (Online Only)
Hi ! I'm Lauren Rice, a dedicated social worker with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges. My journey in this field began with a Bachelor's degree in Family Social Services from Northern Illinois University, followed by a Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago in 2023. My professional experience includes specializing in domestic violence counseling and crisis intervention, where I employ various therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I'm committed to staying up-to-date with new therapy methods to better serve my clients, always placing their needs at the forefront of my practice.
Hi ! I'm Lauren Rice, a dedicated social worker with a passion for helping others navigate life's challenges. My journey in this field began with a Bachelor's degree in Family Social Services from Northern Illinois University, followed by a Master's in Social Work from the University of Chicago in 2023. My professional experience includes specializing in domestic violence counseling and crisis intervention, where I employ various therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, and mindfulness. I'm committed to staying up-to-date with new therapy methods to better serve my clients, always placing their needs at the forefront of my practice.
(630) 448-8815 View (630) 448-8815
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
Naperville, IL 60563  (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 x4 View (331) 244-4868 x4
Photo of Elizabeth Meyers, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Elizabeth Meyers
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
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 Wendy Hayum-Gross, LCPC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Wendy Hayum-Gross
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Accordingly, she chooses her frameworks to fit with clients’ personalities, life circumstances and goals utiilizing a variety of therapeutic methods not limited to but including mindfulness, existential, humanistic.
Wendy works with individual adults 18+ and couples. Clients consistently find Wendy to be provide a warm, relaxed and comfortable approach to counseling. She is very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. She values everyone's life experiences and understands that those experiences shape our current mindset. Wendy specializes in working with therapists, medical professionals and business owners. She brings an existential framework to the session and uses integrative models to meet her client's needs. Wendy has advanced training through PSI in Perinatal Mood Disorders.
Accordingly, she chooses her frameworks to fit with clients’ personalities, life circumstances and goals utiilizing a variety of therapeutic methods not limited to but including mindfulness, existential, humanistic.
Wendy works with individual adults 18+ and couples. Clients consistently find Wendy to be provide a warm, relaxed and comfortable approach to counseling. She is very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. She values everyone's life experiences and understands that those experiences shape our current mindset. Wendy specializes in working with therapists, medical professionals and business owners. She brings an existential framework to the session and uses integrative models to meet her client's needs. Wendy has advanced training through PSI in Perinatal Mood Disorders.
(331) 321-4763 View (331) 321-4763
Photo of Sandra Coyner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Coyner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I embrace mindfulness skills and provide the tools and support needed to help clients meet their goals and better sit with life's uncertainties.
I'm passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. I primarily work with adults ages 18 and above and enjoy specializing in OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My clinical experience extends beyond a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University to include life lessons on the yoga mat, energy healing, and holding space for difficult conversations. My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based practices including CBT, ERP, PE, and DBT. My individual approach is grounded in empathy and non-judgment.
I embrace mindfulness skills and provide the tools and support needed to help clients meet their goals and better sit with life's uncertainties.
I'm passionate about supporting individuals on their journey towards healing and self-discovery. I primarily work with adults ages 18 and above and enjoy specializing in OCD, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My clinical experience extends beyond a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University to include life lessons on the yoga mat, energy healing, and holding space for difficult conversations. My therapeutic approach is rooted in evidence-based practices including CBT, ERP, PE, and DBT. My individual approach is grounded in empathy and non-judgment.
(331) 253-4649 View (331) 253-4649
Photo of Christy Meyer, LCPC, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Christy Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
EMDR, tuning into mind-body approaches using mindfulness are useful tools incorporated where appropriate.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
EMDR, tuning into mind-body approaches using mindfulness are useful tools incorporated where appropriate.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
(630) 948-5578 View (630) 948-5578
Photo of Luis Carlos Mayolo, PsyD, Psychologist
Luis Carlos Mayolo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence based theoretical orientations, including Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing services to adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an extensive background working providing consultation and treatment for mood disorders, behavioral disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and social skill deficits. I earned both my Masters and Doctoral Degrees from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois. I received my Bachelors Degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I received my clinical training at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Hartgrove Hospital, Austin Family Services,
I utilize evidence based theoretical orientations, including Cognitive and Behavioral Therapies, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist providing services to adolescents, adults, couples and families. I have an extensive background working providing consultation and treatment for mood disorders, behavioral disorders, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and social skill deficits. I earned both my Masters and Doctoral Degrees from Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois. I received my Bachelors Degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. I received my clinical training at Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, Hartgrove Hospital, Austin Family Services,
(331) 216-1226 View (331) 216-1226
Photo of Natalie Yard, MA, LPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natalie Yard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Utilizing several proven techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness based approaches, she can put together a plan that best meets her client’s needs.
With a focus on individuals ages 18 to 40, she brings a warm, supportive and disarming energy to her sessions. She enjoys working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management and going through life changes/adjustments. She likes to say that this field allows her the unique opportunity to love on people for a living.
Utilizing several proven techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness based approaches, she can put together a plan that best meets her client’s needs.
With a focus on individuals ages 18 to 40, she brings a warm, supportive and disarming energy to her sessions. She enjoys working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management and going through life changes/adjustments. She likes to say that this field allows her the unique opportunity to love on people for a living.
(331) 422-0998 View (331) 422-0998
Photo of Meghan Vasseur, Pre-Licensed Professional
Meghan Vasseur
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
These include Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Rogerian/Client-Centered/Humanistic and Strengths-Based.
If you have a child or teenager age 6 through 18, Meghan will use her enthusiasm, compassion and humor to help them feel understood, grow and thrive. She is skilled at helping her clients work through their fears of therapy, and loves to show them that therapy can be fun
These include Art Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Rogerian/Client-Centered/Humanistic and Strengths-Based.
If you have a child or teenager age 6 through 18, Meghan will use her enthusiasm, compassion and humor to help them feel understood, grow and thrive. She is skilled at helping her clients work through their fears of therapy, and loves to show them that therapy can be fun
(331) 212-4961 View (331) 212-4961
Photo of Alizah Qadri, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alizah Qadri
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Hello! I'm Alizah (she/her), a psychotherapist at Naperville Wellness And Counseling. I work with teens and adults addressing a variety of issues including disordered eating and body image concerns, anxiety, women's issues, and perinatal mental health concerns. I connect well with a person-centered, mindfulness-based, and cognitive-behavioral approach when working with clients. My goal in sessions is for clients to build towards self-discovery, acceptance, and healing.
Hello! I'm Alizah (she/her), a psychotherapist at Naperville Wellness And Counseling. I work with teens and adults addressing a variety of issues including disordered eating and body image concerns, anxiety, women's issues, and perinatal mental health concerns. I connect well with a person-centered, mindfulness-based, and cognitive-behavioral approach when working with clients. My goal in sessions is for clients to build towards self-discovery, acceptance, and healing.
(224) 272-9684 x3 View (224) 272-9684 x3
Photo of Hannah Anderson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hannah Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, 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
Photo of Melissa Theresa Woolever, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Theresa Woolever
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Change is not always easy and it often requires hard work. However, change does not have to be made alone. It's important that you have someone to listen, validate, support, and, at times, challenge you. My therapy style is a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, warmth, humor, and insight-oriented methods that can be tailored to fit your individual needs and treatment goals.
Change is not always easy and it often requires hard work. However, change does not have to be made alone. It's important that you have someone to listen, validate, support, and, at times, challenge you. My therapy style is a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, warmth, humor, and insight-oriented methods that can be tailored to fit your individual needs and treatment goals.
(630) 448-8099 View (630) 448-8099
Photo of Bill Rabulinski, LCPC, Counselor
Bill Rabulinski
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Through use of ACT, CBT, strengths based, and mindfulness based interventions I like to work with my clients to create an individualized treatment plan to meet your needs.
I believe that everyone is capable of achieving goals that align with their values and what is important to them. Unfortunately we encounter many stressors in our day-to-day lives that pull us away from living a valued life. Things like stress relating to work, relationships, chronic pain/health conditions, past traumas, symptoms of mental health conditions, or any combination of these can act as barrier with living the life we want.
Through use of ACT, CBT, strengths based, and mindfulness based interventions I like to work with my clients to create an individualized treatment plan to meet your needs.
I believe that everyone is capable of achieving goals that align with their values and what is important to them. Unfortunately we encounter many stressors in our day-to-day lives that pull us away from living a valued life. Things like stress relating to work, relationships, chronic pain/health conditions, past traumas, symptoms of mental health conditions, or any combination of these can act as barrier with living the life we want.
(331) 305-4464 View (331) 305-4464
Photo of Jennifer Barrios, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennifer Barrios
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
My ideal client might be someone who is seeking guidance and support in navigating their inner experiences. They are open to exploring mindfulness, self-compassion, and transpersonal techniques as avenues for cultivating acceptance. These individuals could be struggling with emotional pain or facing challenges, seeking healing and transformation. They are ready to connect with their pain within a therapeutic relationship, engaging in a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and are willing to embrace their inner experiences with openness and curiosity.
My ideal client might be someone who is seeking guidance and support in navigating their inner experiences. They are open to exploring mindfulness, self-compassion, and transpersonal techniques as avenues for cultivating acceptance. These individuals could be struggling with emotional pain or facing challenges, seeking healing and transformation. They are ready to connect with their pain within a therapeutic relationship, engaging in a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and are willing to embrace their inner experiences with openness and curiosity.
(331) 320-1470 View (331) 320-1470
Photo of Audra Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I practice a flexible and eclectic approach with the mindfulness that therapy is not one size fits all.
I am interested in working with clients with all different needs, backgrounds and experiences. I am passionate about working with clients who are ready to have a safe, consistent and effective space to process their therapeutic needs. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I am enthusiastic to implement this highly effective technique for various matters such as depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and more.
I practice a flexible and eclectic approach with the mindfulness that therapy is not one size fits all.
I am interested in working with clients with all different needs, backgrounds and experiences. I am passionate about working with clients who are ready to have a safe, consistent and effective space to process their therapeutic needs. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I am enthusiastic to implement this highly effective technique for various matters such as depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and more.
(331) 210-9598 View (331) 210-9598
Photo of Sarah Shaw, LSW
Sarah Shaw
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Meet Sarah, a Licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in social work, specializing in individuals ages 10+, couples, and families. Her expertise includes Eating Disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Body Image, Co-Occurring Disorders, Depression, Life Changes/Adjustments, OCD, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Trauma/PTSD, and Women’s Issues. Sarah uses various treatment approaches tailored to each client's needs, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Meet Sarah, a Licensed Social Worker with a Master's degree in social work, specializing in individuals ages 10+, couples, and families. Her expertise includes Eating Disorders, LGBTQ+ issues, Mood Disorders, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Body Image, Co-Occurring Disorders, Depression, Life Changes/Adjustments, OCD, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Trauma/PTSD, and Women’s Issues. Sarah uses various treatment approaches tailored to each client's needs, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
(331) 241-6402 View (331) 241-6402
Photo of Kiara Landin, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kiara Landin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Kiara is a compassionate and dedicated trauma-informed clinician, focusing on adolescent and adult mental health disorders. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she embraces her bicultural background to provide inclusive therapy for individuals of diverse races, genders, and sexual orientations. With a commitment to holistic wellness, Kiara tailors her treatments to each client's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, and a client-centered approach. She holds a Master of Social Work degree.
Kiara is a compassionate and dedicated trauma-informed clinician, focusing on adolescent and adult mental health disorders. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she embraces her bicultural background to provide inclusive therapy for individuals of diverse races, genders, and sexual orientations. With a commitment to holistic wellness, Kiara tailors her treatments to each client's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction, and a client-centered approach. She holds a Master of Social Work degree.
(331) 253-5077 View (331) 253-5077
Photo of Madison Mange - Modern Thoughts, PLLC, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Modern Thoughts, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is holistic, strongly rooted in mindfulness, and empowerment.
Mental health is something we all have in common. I believe no matter where you may be at in your journey, therapy can be beneficial. Seeking support does not have to feel stigmatized or old-fashioned.
My approach to therapy is holistic, strongly rooted in mindfulness, and empowerment.
Mental health is something we all have in common. I believe no matter where you may be at in your journey, therapy can be beneficial. Seeking support does not have to feel stigmatized or old-fashioned.
(779) 261-2366 View (779) 261-2366
Photo of Jaclyn Harwey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Harwey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I use evidenced based treatment practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy along with elements of strength based therapy, holistic therapy and mindfulness.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I use evidenced based treatment practices including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy along with elements of strength based therapy, holistic therapy and mindfulness.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
(630) 523-9348 View (630) 523-9348
Photo of Caroline Egbers, LCPC, MAAT
Caroline Egbers
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MAAT
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I have a comprehensive approach to therapy using techniques from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address clients' needs.
Are you looking for someone with whom you can comfortably explore the barriers to your happiness? Does anxiety or depression negatively affect your day to day life? Are your relationships leaving you feeling empty and exhausted? If so, I can help. I am a compassionate and empathetic counselor who works with clients to identify the circumstances that are preventing them from moving forward and living their best life. My approach is warm, real and normalizing. I am funny and able to make you comfortable in sessions. I specialize in working with teens and adults in a way that is simple and easy.
I have a comprehensive approach to therapy using techniques from Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to address clients' needs.
Are you looking for someone with whom you can comfortably explore the barriers to your happiness? Does anxiety or depression negatively affect your day to day life? Are your relationships leaving you feeling empty and exhausted? If so, I can help. I am a compassionate and empathetic counselor who works with clients to identify the circumstances that are preventing them from moving forward and living their best life. My approach is warm, real and normalizing. I am funny and able to make you comfortable in sessions. I specialize in working with teens and adults in a way that is simple and easy.
(331) 244-0712 View (331) 244-0712
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Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.