Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Evan Adler Stuart, Pre-Licensed Professional
Evan Adler Stuart
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
My path toward becoming a therapist started as a meditation facilitator, where I gained a deep appreciation of how mindfulness can bring calm and insight. My journey has helped me overcome difficult co-parenting, listening to children or teenagers, navigating divorce and loneliness, working through romantic relationships, and stepping outside of my own struggles to want to be of service to others. All of these life experiences have grounded me in working with a client who appreciates warmth, empathy, authenticity, and an East meets West approach.
My path toward becoming a therapist started as a meditation facilitator, where I gained a deep appreciation of how mindfulness can bring calm and insight. My journey has helped me overcome difficult co-parenting, listening to children or teenagers, navigating divorce and loneliness, working through romantic relationships, and stepping outside of my own struggles to want to be of service to others. All of these life experiences have grounded me in working with a client who appreciates warmth, empathy, authenticity, and an East meets West approach.
(971) 353-4126 View (971) 353-4126
Photo of David Haddow
David Haddow
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Mindfulness has the capacity to catalyze transformational change in a human being.
I am a person-centered counselor and I work with clients around increasing self-awareness and self-esteem through mindfulness practices. I lean heavily on wisdom that has evolved from Eastern philosophies and contemplative traditions. I also provide psychedelic experience preparation, harm reduction, and post integration work for psychedelic curious adults. I work closely with clients to create a safe environment for exploration and the facilitation of personal growth towards desired areas of change. I have a focus on depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and coping with societal or existential stressors.
Mindfulness has the capacity to catalyze transformational change in a human being.
I am a person-centered counselor and I work with clients around increasing self-awareness and self-esteem through mindfulness practices. I lean heavily on wisdom that has evolved from Eastern philosophies and contemplative traditions. I also provide psychedelic experience preparation, harm reduction, and post integration work for psychedelic curious adults. I work closely with clients to create a safe environment for exploration and the facilitation of personal growth towards desired areas of change. I have a focus on depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and coping with societal or existential stressors.
(971) 251-2514 View (971) 251-2514
Photo of Vicki Zeitner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vicki Zeitner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients seeking compassionate, affordable therapy and wellness consulting. I offer Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety, stress and depression, and assertive communication coaching for personal and professional relationships. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation. While I do not accept insurance I can provide you with a monthly superbill to submit to your insurance or HSA for reimbursement.
Accepting new clients seeking compassionate, affordable therapy and wellness consulting. I offer Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety, stress and depression, and assertive communication coaching for personal and professional relationships. Please review my website and contact me for a free consultation. While I do not accept insurance I can provide you with a monthly superbill to submit to your insurance or HSA for reimbursement.
(971) 213-7453 View (971) 213-7453
Photo of Lee Scher, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Scher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I specialize in working with people affected by relational trauma and neurodivergence (especially late-diagnosed autistic and bipolar II) folks. My approach is client-centered, which means I focus on developing a relationship with you based on warmth, respect, curiosity, and genuineness. I also incorporate Jungian psychology, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness into my work. If you're curious to learn more, please visit my website or call me to set up a free consultation or first session.
I specialize in working with people affected by relational trauma and neurodivergence (especially late-diagnosed autistic and bipolar II) folks. My approach is client-centered, which means I focus on developing a relationship with you based on warmth, respect, curiosity, and genuineness. I also incorporate Jungian psychology, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness into my work. If you're curious to learn more, please visit my website or call me to set up a free consultation or first session.
(971) 252-7872 View (971) 252-7872
Photo of Celia Marie Heffernan, Counselor
Celia Marie Heffernan
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
In our work together, I integrate somatic psychotherapy techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, inner child/parts work, and mindfulness techniques.
I offer individual counseling to help people experiencing complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting challenges, and relational issues.
In our work together, I integrate somatic psychotherapy techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, inner child/parts work, and mindfulness techniques.
I offer individual counseling to help people experiencing complex trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, life transitions, parenting challenges, and relational issues.
(503) 994-5904 View (503) 994-5904
Photo of Magda Permut, PhD, Psychologist
Magda Permut
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
My work often includes a mindfulness approach and I will teach you skills based on leading edge research.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
My work often includes a mindfulness approach and I will teach you skills based on leading edge research.
Impossible is temporary. As a relational psychologist specializing in issues like trauma and addictions, I have learned this time and time again. The combination of a supportive relationship, motivation to change well-worn patterns, and clear, concrete guidance can lead to changes far beyond what people believe is possible. Sometimes it seems "impossible" to live a deeper, more connected existence. We may carry scars of rejection and betrayal that keep us from being our truest selves. We heal in the context of genuine, warm, accepting relationships that also encourage us to take risks. I so enjoy building these relationships.
(503) 616-2040 View (503) 616-2040
Photo of Fionn Fortune, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Fionn Fortune
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I often incorporate mindfulness and other evidence-based intervention as necessary—again, you’re the driver.
Welcome! I’m Fionn and a doctoral graduate student at Pacific University in my 4th of 5 years. I’m looking forward to getting to know you. As a therapist, I strive to create a space where clients of all backgrounds and identities feel welcome and safe. I truly believe that my clients are the experts on themselves and their experiences. I prefer to follow the lead of my clients and work at their pace as we navigate the path of healing and growth together. You are in charge! If we use a car metaphor, I will always let you be the main driver, while I’m in your passenger seat. I have great experience as a co-pilot and love that job!
I often incorporate mindfulness and other evidence-based intervention as necessary—again, you’re the driver.
Welcome! I’m Fionn and a doctoral graduate student at Pacific University in my 4th of 5 years. I’m looking forward to getting to know you. As a therapist, I strive to create a space where clients of all backgrounds and identities feel welcome and safe. I truly believe that my clients are the experts on themselves and their experiences. I prefer to follow the lead of my clients and work at their pace as we navigate the path of healing and growth together. You are in charge! If we use a car metaphor, I will always let you be the main driver, while I’m in your passenger seat. I have great experience as a co-pilot and love that job!
(971) 298-8097 View (971) 298-8097
Photo of Adam Heifetz, PhD, MA
Adam Heifetz
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
I have a strong social justice orientation, and specialize in modalities such as dream interpretation, sub-personalities, meditation/ mindfulness, shamanic journeying, and Socratic dialogue.
Everyone is on a journey of personal development; making meaning of their lives and experiences. I consider people to be the experts in their lives, who, when supported, are able to follow their natural drive for self-actualization. All human experiences are a valuable part of the process of self-emergence. Even the greatest challenges can offer insight and fuel for a path forward. I seek to draw out clients' strengths and support the cultivation of their inner guide. People are neither sick nor well. Rather, we are all in process, with personal depths that want for exploration.
I have a strong social justice orientation, and specialize in modalities such as dream interpretation, sub-personalities, meditation/ mindfulness, shamanic journeying, and Socratic dialogue.
Everyone is on a journey of personal development; making meaning of their lives and experiences. I consider people to be the experts in their lives, who, when supported, are able to follow their natural drive for self-actualization. All human experiences are a valuable part of the process of self-emergence. Even the greatest challenges can offer insight and fuel for a path forward. I seek to draw out clients' strengths and support the cultivation of their inner guide. People are neither sick nor well. Rather, we are all in process, with personal depths that want for exploration.
(971) 544-8123 View (971) 544-8123
Photo of Bethany Kuehne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethany Kuehne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
I specialize in a holistic approach that incorporates ACT/DBT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
You're probably here because you want to feel better. Whether it's recovering from trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, or improving your relationship with yourself and others, therapy can help. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find healing, self-discovery, and emotional balance. With years of experience, my aim is to provide you with compassionate and evidence-based support on your journey. Many of my clients appreciate the blend of practical approaches, emotional processing and good humor that we create together. Our time together can empower you to make lasting, positive changes.
I specialize in a holistic approach that incorporates ACT/DBT, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
You're probably here because you want to feel better. Whether it's recovering from trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, or improving your relationship with yourself and others, therapy can help. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find healing, self-discovery, and emotional balance. With years of experience, my aim is to provide you with compassionate and evidence-based support on your journey. Many of my clients appreciate the blend of practical approaches, emotional processing and good humor that we create together. Our time together can empower you to make lasting, positive changes.
(503) 400-7162 View (503) 400-7162
Photo of Rylan Shook - Ascent Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ascent Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Accepting new clients now, in OR and WA! I’m Rylan, I’m a licensed therapist (LMFT) who works with children, teens, and adults from a client-centered approach focused on mindfulness and self-compassion. Therapy is a collaborative process, so we’re going to build your ideal outcomes together. I specialize in working with both children and adults with ADHD, depression, social anxiety, isolation, motivation and school/work problems, as well as family and relationship stress, and divorce/separation issues. I often work with creative and artistic folks, and professionals of all types.
Accepting new clients now, in OR and WA! I’m Rylan, I’m a licensed therapist (LMFT) who works with children, teens, and adults from a client-centered approach focused on mindfulness and self-compassion. Therapy is a collaborative process, so we’re going to build your ideal outcomes together. I specialize in working with both children and adults with ADHD, depression, social anxiety, isolation, motivation and school/work problems, as well as family and relationship stress, and divorce/separation issues. I often work with creative and artistic folks, and professionals of all types.
(971) 273-1228 View (971) 273-1228
Photo of May Han, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
May Han
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Using my specialty in attachment theory, mindfulness and neuroscience, I facilitate mutual emotional attentiveness within you and your loved one, while engaging myself to reflect, be with, and gently challenge you towards exploration and transformation.
I love what I do. I enjoy assisting you and your loved ones working through pains to a deeply connected, authentic, and satisfying life for yourself and with each other. I am equipped to help you with a wide range of struggles including emotional turmoil, traditional or non traditional relationship issues, sexual difficulties, and self esteem issues. I believe we have the strength within ourselves to heal, and I strive to help you and you significant other get into contact with that innate resiliency for a more nourishing life. I do so in a collaborative way, with cultural sensitivity, and sharp wit.
Using my specialty in attachment theory, mindfulness and neuroscience, I facilitate mutual emotional attentiveness within you and your loved one, while engaging myself to reflect, be with, and gently challenge you towards exploration and transformation.
I love what I do. I enjoy assisting you and your loved ones working through pains to a deeply connected, authentic, and satisfying life for yourself and with each other. I am equipped to help you with a wide range of struggles including emotional turmoil, traditional or non traditional relationship issues, sexual difficulties, and self esteem issues. I believe we have the strength within ourselves to heal, and I strive to help you and you significant other get into contact with that innate resiliency for a more nourishing life. I do so in a collaborative way, with cultural sensitivity, and sharp wit.
(503) 461-7793 View (503) 461-7793
Photo of Craig Parton, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig Parton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I will also use more somatically-based tools such as mindfulness meditation and body awareness.
It is often during difficult times that people come to psychotherapy. These times may feel overwhelming. Either way, we come because we hope that feelings, motivations, relationships or circumstances can be different. My approach to therapy comes out of my training in Somatic Psychology, which is based on the premise that the mind and body are interconnected. Somatic Psychotherapy is experientially-focused, with the underlying assumption that you don’t need fixing, that you are already enough as you are. Note: I am licensed in Oregon and California.
I will also use more somatically-based tools such as mindfulness meditation and body awareness.
It is often during difficult times that people come to psychotherapy. These times may feel overwhelming. Either way, we come because we hope that feelings, motivations, relationships or circumstances can be different. My approach to therapy comes out of my training in Somatic Psychology, which is based on the premise that the mind and body are interconnected. Somatic Psychotherapy is experientially-focused, with the underlying assumption that you don’t need fixing, that you are already enough as you are. Note: I am licensed in Oregon and California.
(503) 483-2500 View (503) 483-2500
Photo of Olivia Lin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Olivia Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97266
Drawing from a decade of experience working in international schools and different cultural contexts worldwide, Olivia dynamically engages individuals from varied walks of life using Mindfulness practices, Compassionate Inquiry, Existential, and Humanistic therapy.
Olivia utilizes a holistic, client-centered approach marked by presence and curiosity, honoring people's lived experiences. Trauma sensitivity, socioeconomic awareness, and cultural intersectionality inform her practice. Olivia is committed to fostering a non-judgmental therapeutic environment while exploring the facets of clients' lives that clients wish to navigate. Employing an array of integrated tools and leveraging client strengths, Olivia works collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families, illuminating pathways for personal and systemic growth.
Drawing from a decade of experience working in international schools and different cultural contexts worldwide, Olivia dynamically engages individuals from varied walks of life using Mindfulness practices, Compassionate Inquiry, Existential, and Humanistic therapy.
Olivia utilizes a holistic, client-centered approach marked by presence and curiosity, honoring people's lived experiences. Trauma sensitivity, socioeconomic awareness, and cultural intersectionality inform her practice. Olivia is committed to fostering a non-judgmental therapeutic environment while exploring the facets of clients' lives that clients wish to navigate. Employing an array of integrated tools and leveraging client strengths, Olivia works collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families, illuminating pathways for personal and systemic growth.
(503) 300-5176 View (503) 300-5176
Photo of Hannah Hall, CSWA, QMHP
Hannah Hall
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
I mostly utilize CBT, ACT, mindfulness, strengths based, and person centered therapies depending on your needs and goals.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process of growth and exploration. Taking the step to begin therapy can be challenging, but I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. It is important to me to make my clients feel safe, heard, and understood. I am passionate about working with adults ages 20-65 who are experiencing a variety of stressors and mental health conditions.
I mostly utilize CBT, ACT, mindfulness, strengths based, and person centered therapies depending on your needs and goals.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process of growth and exploration. Taking the step to begin therapy can be challenging, but I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. It is important to me to make my clients feel safe, heard, and understood. I am passionate about working with adults ages 20-65 who are experiencing a variety of stressors and mental health conditions.
(971) 306-4604 x1 View (971) 306-4604 x1
Photo of Darci L Walker, PsyD, Psychologist
Darci L Walker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I use an integrated approach combining Cognitive-Behavioral, Relational, and Mindfulness based therapies to help clients transform their lives and relationships with others.
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
I use an integrated approach combining Cognitive-Behavioral, Relational, and Mindfulness based therapies to help clients transform their lives and relationships with others.
Depression, anxiety, conflict or life transitions can leave us feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Therapy can, and should, be a safe and collaborative relationship where we work through the complications of life and relationships to find a more hopeful, rewarding and loving experience of the world. I want you to feel active in your therapy as we work toward gentle healing and personal growth. In addition to working with individuals, couples and families, I offer retreats, groups and am the co-creator of Her Table Wealth and Wellness which combines therapy with financial coaching to help women truly level up.
(503) 822-0964 View (503) 822-0964
Photo of Lindsey Cullins, MSW, CSWA
Lindsey Cullins
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
By combining CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I’ll help you not only understand the root of your challenges but also provide practical tools to manage them.
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of grief and loss. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
By combining CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing, I’ll help you not only understand the root of your challenges but also provide practical tools to manage them.
You may feel weighed down by anxiety, stress, or depression. Sometimes you question your ability to find peace or cope with everything happening in your life. Maybe you’re going through a big transition, dealing with chronic health challenges, or struggling with the deep pain of grief and loss. Deep down, you’re seeking clarity, emotional balance, and a sense of trust in yourself. You want to break free from the patterns that hold you back—whether that’s self-doubt, limiting beliefs, or relationship difficulties. Most of all, you’re looking for a safe, supportive space to explore your feelings and build strength to move forward.
(503) 966-3310 View (503) 966-3310
Photo of Lisa Sloan Strom - Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC, MA, LPC, CADC-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Some of the techniques I utilize include neuroscience, poly vagal, IFS, sensorimotor, mindfulness, dreamwork, metaphor and movement.
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
Some of the techniques I utilize include neuroscience, poly vagal, IFS, sensorimotor, mindfulness, dreamwork, metaphor and movement.
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
(503) 743-6638 x974 View (503) 743-6638 x974
Photo of Jennifer Walker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Utilizing a blend of CBT and DBT, my approach is tailored to enhance mindfulness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
Utilizing a blend of CBT and DBT, my approach is tailored to enhance mindfulness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills.
ADHD and Autism each bring unique challenges, from difficulty focusing and impulsivity to struggles in social interactions and sensory sensitivities. These conditions can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. My practice is devoted to understanding the individual needs of those with ADHD and Autism, providing a supportive environment to explore these challenges. Together, we'll work on strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease, aiming to enhance your ability to engage with the world around you in a more fulfilling way.
(971) 366-2847 View (971) 366-2847
Photo of Greg Arbo, PsyD, Psychologist
Greg Arbo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
I have sought out specialized training mindfulness-based therapies including ACT, somatic therapy, CBT, and EFT.
It's a pleasure to have the opportunity to support the wellbeing of teens and families, adult men, and couples. My specialties as a psychologist include anxiety, men's health, trauma, family of origin, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem. My focus with teens is often on tackling academic, athletic, or relational stressors through understanding how to navigate thoughts and feelings. With couples, I enjoy the process of enhancing closeness through empathic, emotion-focused communication. I'm also passionate about supporting adult men in developing tools to manage stress and anxiety.
I have sought out specialized training mindfulness-based therapies including ACT, somatic therapy, CBT, and EFT.
It's a pleasure to have the opportunity to support the wellbeing of teens and families, adult men, and couples. My specialties as a psychologist include anxiety, men's health, trauma, family of origin, Autism, ADHD, and self-esteem. My focus with teens is often on tackling academic, athletic, or relational stressors through understanding how to navigate thoughts and feelings. With couples, I enjoy the process of enhancing closeness through empathic, emotion-focused communication. I'm also passionate about supporting adult men in developing tools to manage stress and anxiety.
(971) 276-1041 View (971) 276-1041
Photo of Todd Mercural, MPA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Mercural
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
I have completed Hatha Yoga teacher training and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction which I use to incorporate experiential mind-body practices in session.
I use an existential approach to work with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, chronic stress and burnout, spirituality, grief and loss, and relationship challenges. My clients are typically struggling with change, relationships, making difficult choices, and finding meaning or purpose. Themes often involve freedom/constraint, responsibility, boundary, authenticity, meaning/meaninglessness, safety/risk, belonging/isolation, identity, power/powerlessness, and mortality.
I have completed Hatha Yoga teacher training and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction which I use to incorporate experiential mind-body practices in session.
I use an existential approach to work with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, chronic stress and burnout, spirituality, grief and loss, and relationship challenges. My clients are typically struggling with change, relationships, making difficult choices, and finding meaning or purpose. Themes often involve freedom/constraint, responsibility, boundary, authenticity, meaning/meaninglessness, safety/risk, belonging/isolation, identity, power/powerlessness, and mortality.
(971) 414-3035 View (971) 414-3035
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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.