Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Bellaire, TX

Photo of Sari Janice Meltzer, PhD, Psychologist
Sari Janice Meltzer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
These include CBT, ACT, RET, and mindfulness.
I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have been in practice since 1986. My style is interactive, but varies depending on the needs and personality of the client(s). I see the therapy process as a team effort with ongoing review of client satisfaction. When appropriate I consult other professionals and/or make referrals. I believe that peoples' feelings and behaviors are effected by their interpretations of events, and sometimes encourage clients to explore their interpretations. I try to work within their spiritual and cultural belief system, and seek information when my knowledge is limited.
These include CBT, ACT, RET, and mindfulness.
I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology and have been in practice since 1986. My style is interactive, but varies depending on the needs and personality of the client(s). I see the therapy process as a team effort with ongoing review of client satisfaction. When appropriate I consult other professionals and/or make referrals. I believe that peoples' feelings and behaviors are effected by their interpretations of events, and sometimes encourage clients to explore their interpretations. I try to work within their spiritual and cultural belief system, and seek information when my knowledge is limited.
(713) 338-9078 View (713) 338-9078
Photo of Ashley Giles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Giles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77402  (Online Only)
I view mindfulness, self-compassion, and acceptance practices as vital to successful therapy.
No one is given a guidebook on how to navigate relationships with others or with ourselves and this missing information often leaves us feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and unstable. At each session, we'll set goals specific to your needs to work toward immediate changes.
I view mindfulness, self-compassion, and acceptance practices as vital to successful therapy.
No one is given a guidebook on how to navigate relationships with others or with ourselves and this missing information often leaves us feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and unstable. At each session, we'll set goals specific to your needs to work toward immediate changes.
(409) 204-0355 View (409) 204-0355
Photo of Lisa Balick, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Balick
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
My knowledge of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and self-management techniques influences my treatment approach, while adjusting my treatment emphasis to match clients' capbilities & needs.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and have a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Preventive Medicine. I work with outpatient adolescents, adults, and couples doing individual/couples therapy. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness (adjustment to one's own and other's), loss, and grief. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, survivors of sexual abuse, relationship problems, and homosexual concerns and adjustments. My involvement with eating disorders is extensive. I work with many clients who are emotional overeaters,compulsive overeaters, binge eaters, bulimic, or anorexic.
My knowledge of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and self-management techniques influences my treatment approach, while adjusting my treatment emphasis to match clients' capbilities & needs.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, a Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine, and have a Post-Doctoral Fellowship in Preventive Medicine. I work with outpatient adolescents, adults, and couples doing individual/couples therapy. My areas of expertise include eating disorders, stress management, chronic illness (adjustment to one's own and other's), loss, and grief. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, survivors of sexual abuse, relationship problems, and homosexual concerns and adjustments. My involvement with eating disorders is extensive. I work with many clients who are emotional overeaters,compulsive overeaters, binge eaters, bulimic, or anorexic.
(713) 338-9176 View (713) 338-9176
Photo of Jennifer Chapple, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Chapple
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
A behavioral therapy founded in a zen philosophy,clients create a lifestyle of skills in mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.
I just might be the therapist for you if you are someone who feels stuck in life, unable to be free of your unhappiness. If you have lost faith in your abilities, unsure of your purpose in life, or if you find yourself frozen in fear unable to move through your problems and make decisions. As your therapist, I will help you not to judge yourself for these problems, but to accept and learn skills to manage them. Whatever it is that keeps you from living your best life, I would like to share my knowledge and skills with you.
A behavioral therapy founded in a zen philosophy,clients create a lifestyle of skills in mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance.
I just might be the therapist for you if you are someone who feels stuck in life, unable to be free of your unhappiness. If you have lost faith in your abilities, unsure of your purpose in life, or if you find yourself frozen in fear unable to move through your problems and make decisions. As your therapist, I will help you not to judge yourself for these problems, but to accept and learn skills to manage them. Whatever it is that keeps you from living your best life, I would like to share my knowledge and skills with you.
(713) 338-9138 View (713) 338-9138
Photo of Wendy Evans, MSW, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
My approach is mindfulness based and integrates Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, and solution-focused therapies.
*I see clients both virtually and in person.* I want to help you attain your goals and create a happier and more balanced life. I offer a safe and non-judgmental environment to enable you to freely talk and explore your feelings.
My approach is mindfulness based and integrates Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, and solution-focused therapies.
*I see clients both virtually and in person.* I want to help you attain your goals and create a happier and more balanced life. I offer a safe and non-judgmental environment to enable you to freely talk and explore your feelings.
(346) 567-7398 View (346) 567-7398
Photo of Stefanie C Barthmare, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stefanie C Barthmare
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I have had over 19 years experience and have advanced training in the following areas: virtual/telehealth, attachment issues, relationships/couples counseling, infidelity, stress, grief and trauma, anxiety, parenting (including blended families and pregnancy) as well as mindfulness based body work.
Are you ready for therapy? If you're frustrated, feeling alone in the struggle and interested in understanding more about the patterns that have kept you (and your relationship) stuck, it’s time. Therapy with me will help you get started on the path to making real, lasting changes. While taking the first step to meet a psychotherapist can be difficult, your relationships and mental health are worth it. I can offer you the kind of support, guidance and gentle feedback that may be useful, no matter the challenge. Let's take the next step together. I'm looking forward to meeting you. Virtual teletherapy is done using Zoom.
I have had over 19 years experience and have advanced training in the following areas: virtual/telehealth, attachment issues, relationships/couples counseling, infidelity, stress, grief and trauma, anxiety, parenting (including blended families and pregnancy) as well as mindfulness based body work.
Are you ready for therapy? If you're frustrated, feeling alone in the struggle and interested in understanding more about the patterns that have kept you (and your relationship) stuck, it’s time. Therapy with me will help you get started on the path to making real, lasting changes. While taking the first step to meet a psychotherapist can be difficult, your relationships and mental health are worth it. I can offer you the kind of support, guidance and gentle feedback that may be useful, no matter the challenge. Let's take the next step together. I'm looking forward to meeting you. Virtual teletherapy is done using Zoom.
(281) 823-8215 View (281) 823-8215
Photo of Daniel Katz, PsyD, Psychologist
Daniel Katz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am experienced and enjoy working with a wide variety of issues particularly, mood disorders, depression, mindfulness, anxiety, trauma, relationships, grief and loss, addiction and recovery, college students, young professionals, LGBTQIA issues, and life transitions.
I look at mental health from an integrative perspective. People are best understood and change is best maintained by taking into account all aspects of a person including physical health, genetic influences, cultural identities, behavioral patterns and past experiences. My therapeutic approach emphasizes an appreciation for the complexity and uniqueness of all of my clients. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and actions, so that you can better understand yourself and obtain direction on how to grow. I will collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
I am experienced and enjoy working with a wide variety of issues particularly, mood disorders, depression, mindfulness, anxiety, trauma, relationships, grief and loss, addiction and recovery, college students, young professionals, LGBTQIA issues, and life transitions.
I look at mental health from an integrative perspective. People are best understood and change is best maintained by taking into account all aspects of a person including physical health, genetic influences, cultural identities, behavioral patterns and past experiences. My therapeutic approach emphasizes an appreciation for the complexity and uniqueness of all of my clients. I provide a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and actions, so that you can better understand yourself and obtain direction on how to grow. I will collaborate with you to create an individualized treatment plan based on your specific needs.
(832) 612-3991 View (832) 612-3991
Photo of Alisha Dalton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alisha Dalton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401  (Online Only)
I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for adults experiencing anxiety and depressive disorders related to unsuccessful relationships. In our work together, you'll learn practical skills to rediscover your identity and purpose. My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which allows for deeper healing than traditional talk therapy. Clients come to me looking for someone who “gets” what happened to them on a deeper level because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and validated.
I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space for adults experiencing anxiety and depressive disorders related to unsuccessful relationships. In our work together, you'll learn practical skills to rediscover your identity and purpose. My approach to therapy is based on mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which allows for deeper healing than traditional talk therapy. Clients come to me looking for someone who “gets” what happened to them on a deeper level because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and validated.
(737) 302-5935 View (737) 302-5935
Photo of Andranique L. Goodman - The Inner Mind | Counseling & Wellness, MA, LPC-S, Author, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Inner Mind | Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, Author
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
‘Offering a clinical foundation with a mentoring vibe.’ Hey! If you’re seeking a non-traditional therapy style then you’ve come to the right place (no, you’re not required to lie down on a couch). We are a team of clinicians that offer diverse areas of specialities. Our treatment styles make it fun and engaging while learning the tools needed to improve your mental well-being. We operate from a person-centered model but include techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavior, music, exercise, art and more. The intent is to alleviate any discomfort felt when seeking help from a licensed professional.
‘Offering a clinical foundation with a mentoring vibe.’ Hey! If you’re seeking a non-traditional therapy style then you’ve come to the right place (no, you’re not required to lie down on a couch). We are a team of clinicians that offer diverse areas of specialities. Our treatment styles make it fun and engaging while learning the tools needed to improve your mental well-being. We operate from a person-centered model but include techniques such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavior, music, exercise, art and more. The intent is to alleviate any discomfort felt when seeking help from a licensed professional.
(281) 801-5771 View (281) 801-5771
Photo of Juana McKinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Juana McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I do find that most of my clients benefit from EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, and/or mindfulness-based coping skills and techniques.
I help women overcome impacts of trauma that may cause anxiety, depression and/or PTSD. Together we'll develop tools to manage emotions, regain control, develop strong boundaries, build self-esteem, and improve communication skills. My aim is to support clients throughout their journey as they strive to rediscover or establish a sense of self, overcome effects of trauma, and embrace a fulfilled life. Not ready to dive into your past just yet? That's perfectly okay, I'll meet you where you are in your journey and we will work through present day issues together.
I do find that most of my clients benefit from EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, and/or mindfulness-based coping skills and techniques.
I help women overcome impacts of trauma that may cause anxiety, depression and/or PTSD. Together we'll develop tools to manage emotions, regain control, develop strong boundaries, build self-esteem, and improve communication skills. My aim is to support clients throughout their journey as they strive to rediscover or establish a sense of self, overcome effects of trauma, and embrace a fulfilled life. Not ready to dive into your past just yet? That's perfectly okay, I'll meet you where you are in your journey and we will work through present day issues together.
(713) 804-6179 View (713) 804-6179
Photo of Dr. Piero Peirano, PsyD, LSSP, Psychologist
Dr. Piero Peirano
Psychologist, PsyD, LSSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
Treatment modality includes include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Social Skills Training, Family Therapy and Parenting Training, and more.
Welcome to your journey of healing and growth. Is stress, anxiety or sadness causing you to feel unmotivated, or difficulty being productive, moving forward or making decisions? Then you are not alone! Unexpected life events may increase uncertainty and stress in us or our loved ones, and sometimes this can make us withdraw, feel helpless, stuck, or to engage in unhealthy habits and behaviors. I believe we all have the potential and inner resources to gain clarity, strength and find solutions to our day to day challenges. I'd be glad to help serve as a guide and catalyst in your journey of healing and personal empowerment.
Treatment modality includes include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Social Skills Training, Family Therapy and Parenting Training, and more.
Welcome to your journey of healing and growth. Is stress, anxiety or sadness causing you to feel unmotivated, or difficulty being productive, moving forward or making decisions? Then you are not alone! Unexpected life events may increase uncertainty and stress in us or our loved ones, and sometimes this can make us withdraw, feel helpless, stuck, or to engage in unhealthy habits and behaviors. I believe we all have the potential and inner resources to gain clarity, strength and find solutions to our day to day challenges. I'd be glad to help serve as a guide and catalyst in your journey of healing and personal empowerment.
(281) 545-3369 View (281) 545-3369
Photo of Joyce A Sauter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce A Sauter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401  (Online Only)
Making the most of your strengths, and helping you meet your concerns with compassion, is my Mindfulness-based approach.
Real Talk for Real Change is my method. I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping adults discover the joy in living authentically. My work focuses on empowering others to create and meet goals that are meaningful to them. I believe in the power of empathic and insightful collaboration to promote self-discovery and positive change.
Making the most of your strengths, and helping you meet your concerns with compassion, is my Mindfulness-based approach.
Real Talk for Real Change is my method. I’m a trauma-informed Clinical Social Worker committed to helping adults discover the joy in living authentically. My work focuses on empowering others to create and meet goals that are meaningful to them. I believe in the power of empathic and insightful collaboration to promote self-discovery and positive change.
(281) 622-4525 View (281) 622-4525
Photo of John Najera, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Najera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Using evidence-based mindfulness and behavioral therapies, we will develop strategies and skills for making meaningful change.
Making changes in life can be difficult. Regaining your balance after the shock and impact of trauma, grief and loss can be overwhelming and feel as if nothing will get better. Relationships are important to you, yet sometimes bring on difficult feelings. Life after recovering from substance use can be challenging to navigate and can feel strange. You’ve taken the first step by reaching out. The good news is that you don't have to do it alone.
Using evidence-based mindfulness and behavioral therapies, we will develop strategies and skills for making meaningful change.
Making changes in life can be difficult. Regaining your balance after the shock and impact of trauma, grief and loss can be overwhelming and feel as if nothing will get better. Relationships are important to you, yet sometimes bring on difficult feelings. Life after recovering from substance use can be challenging to navigate and can feel strange. You’ve taken the first step by reaching out. The good news is that you don't have to do it alone.
(713) 528-8190 View (713) 528-8190
Photo of Christine River Block, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine River Block
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am extensively trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapies, (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Habit Reversal Therapy, Mindfulness-based CBT).
A therapist is like a dentist. We can avoid them for a while, and sometimes we find one we like or don't like. Eventually, though, everyone needs to see one. Therapy won't solve your problems, but it will help equip you with the tools you need to get through. We offer in-person and video sessions, and see children to adults. We have several groups available, and we accept insurance and offer a sliding scale. We believe therapy is for everyone. Contact us for a free consultation. Even if you don't end up seeing a therapist with our practice, we can help you find someone that you connect with.
I am extensively trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapies, (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Habit Reversal Therapy, Mindfulness-based CBT).
A therapist is like a dentist. We can avoid them for a while, and sometimes we find one we like or don't like. Eventually, though, everyone needs to see one. Therapy won't solve your problems, but it will help equip you with the tools you need to get through. We offer in-person and video sessions, and see children to adults. We have several groups available, and we accept insurance and offer a sliding scale. We believe therapy is for everyone. Contact us for a free consultation. Even if you don't end up seeing a therapist with our practice, we can help you find someone that you connect with.
(281) 688-6157 View (281) 688-6157
Photo of Suzana Marijan Stankovic, LPC-S, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzana Marijan Stankovic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
No matter where you are in your inner journey, life continues to challenge you to grow and change. You might be struggling with aftermath of a recent traumatic experience. Maybe you are haunted by painful childhood experiences that still affect your life today. Perhaps, things are going smoothly, and you are seeking ways to improve your performance at work, sport or a hobby. Let me help you take the next step.
No matter where you are in your inner journey, life continues to challenge you to grow and change. You might be struggling with aftermath of a recent traumatic experience. Maybe you are haunted by painful childhood experiences that still affect your life today. Perhaps, things are going smoothly, and you are seeking ways to improve your performance at work, sport or a hobby. Let me help you take the next step.
(281) 918-8009 View (281) 918-8009
Photo of Gregory D. Drummond, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT-C, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregory D. Drummond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, CSAT-C, MBA
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate. I currently work in a private practice setting in the heart of Houston, Texas. I am experienced in assessing and treating individuals of all ages and specialize in utilizing cognitive and behavioral-based treatment. I utilize a family systems evaluation and diagnostic approach, psychodynamic/analytic interpretive style, solution focused and crisis therapy techniques. I primarily work with individuals, couples and groups with anxiety, and depression, substance use issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate. I currently work in a private practice setting in the heart of Houston, Texas. I am experienced in assessing and treating individuals of all ages and specialize in utilizing cognitive and behavioral-based treatment. I utilize a family systems evaluation and diagnostic approach, psychodynamic/analytic interpretive style, solution focused and crisis therapy techniques. I primarily work with individuals, couples and groups with anxiety, and depression, substance use issues.
(713) 661-7888 View (713) 661-7888
Photo of Monica Melissa McClain, MA, LCDC , LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Melissa McClain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCDC , LPC-S
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.`
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. You might be initially hesitant to seek out help and support for personal matters, but when you do, you will feel confident that you are taking a courageous first step towards getting to a better place and being a better you.`
(713) 481-5881 View (713) 481-5881
Photo of Raquel Angelica Ducote, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raquel Angelica Ducote
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77401
The goal of therapy is to empower you with insight, strength, knowledge and healing to make a difference in your own life! We all have the power to heal and with guidance and direction, it is possible. I want to offer hope to every person who comes through my door because that's what I believe! I utilize a variety of proven psychological techniques and have over 15 years of experience! In a calm and peaceful atmosphere, I will offer the insight and wisdom you need to find your way to a place of inner calm and serenity.
The goal of therapy is to empower you with insight, strength, knowledge and healing to make a difference in your own life! We all have the power to heal and with guidance and direction, it is possible. I want to offer hope to every person who comes through my door because that's what I believe! I utilize a variety of proven psychological techniques and have over 15 years of experience! In a calm and peaceful atmosphere, I will offer the insight and wisdom you need to find your way to a place of inner calm and serenity.
(832) 924-5551 View (832) 924-5551
Photo of Regina Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regina Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellaire, TX 77401
Regina Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience with doing therapy with children and adolescents. As a therapist, she is passionate about working with children and adolescents to help improve their mental health. Regina loves working with children, adolescents, and adults doing group, individual, and family therapy sessions. She is skilled in case management, individual, and group therapy, and psychological assessments. Regina has experience helping clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, and mood disorders.
Regina Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has experience with doing therapy with children and adolescents. As a therapist, she is passionate about working with children and adolescents to help improve their mental health. Regina loves working with children, adolescents, and adults doing group, individual, and family therapy sessions. She is skilled in case management, individual, and group therapy, and psychological assessments. Regina has experience helping clients with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, ODD, and mood disorders.
(346) 536-8506 View (346) 536-8506
Photo of Reginald Keith Riggins - Dr. Riggins Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Riggins Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellaire, TX 77402  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Reginald K. Riggins. I am licensed clinical psychologist based in Texas. I am originally from the south side of Chicago with over ten years of experience in the mental health space. Participating in therapy is the greatest investment you can ever make for yourself. When you learn how to improve your thinking, behavior and emotional well-being you create a better version of yourself. The process of healing is not easy but it is so worth it once you reach the mountain top, stare down and see how far you've come. It would be an honor to take that journey with you.
Hello! I am Dr. Reginald K. Riggins. I am licensed clinical psychologist based in Texas. I am originally from the south side of Chicago with over ten years of experience in the mental health space. Participating in therapy is the greatest investment you can ever make for yourself. When you learn how to improve your thinking, behavior and emotional well-being you create a better version of yourself. The process of healing is not easy but it is so worth it once you reach the mountain top, stare down and see how far you've come. It would be an honor to take that journey with you.
(713) 808-1841 View (713) 808-1841
1
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

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

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

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

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

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

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

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