Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Richardson, TX

Photo of Kelly Knight, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081  (Online Only)
Research supports that evidence based counseling techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness can be effective to help tap into your own unique strengths and abilities, learn to calm the mind, and focus on creating a plan to feel better.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
Research supports that evidence based counseling techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness can be effective to help tap into your own unique strengths and abilities, learn to calm the mind, and focus on creating a plan to feel better.
Chronic pain and illness can impact all aspects of a person’s life. They can be physically and mentally debilitating and directly affect relationships, work, finances, confidence, and ability to complete even simple daily tasks. If you are having trouble managing symptoms of pain, illness, side effects from treatment, or feeling stressed, worried, or isolated, you are not alone. Millions of people are struggling with health issues, and those around them don’t always understand, don’t know how to help, or both. It can be overwhelming and difficult to handle on your own.
(469) 608-2346 View (469) 608-2346
Photo of Doreen Simonian, MA, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doreen Simonian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Other areas of interest/experience include depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, life transitions, elder care support, parenting issues, wellness/self-care, mindfulness and LGBTQIA support.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
Other areas of interest/experience include depression, anxiety, OCD, grief, life transitions, elder care support, parenting issues, wellness/self-care, mindfulness and LGBTQIA support.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
(972) 441-7066 View (972) 441-7066
Photo of Daniel Meisenheimer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Meisenheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
I utilize mindfulness, EMDR, somatic exploration, compassion and connectedness to support clients in building safety, reprocessing trauma and increasing their well being.
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
I utilize mindfulness, EMDR, somatic exploration, compassion and connectedness to support clients in building safety, reprocessing trauma and increasing their well being.
Do you find that you have always felt different or highly sensitive? Are you anxious and overwhelmed in social situations or maybe noting that you have sensory sensitivities, or processing issues that make certain interactions challenging? This can be very alienating and exhausting to manage and can lead to self esteem issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, and increased instances of trauma. You may already have a diagnosis such as Autism, ADHD, Schizophrenia or Bipolar. In my therapy, I pull away from harmful "cure" based approaches, and instead, into approaches that nurture self-acceptance and healing.
(214) 239-9159 View (214) 239-9159
Photo of Revis Ann Massey, PsyD, Psychologist
Revis Ann Massey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75082
I use mindfulness techniques, anxiety/stress management techniques, giving clients skills to be empowered to cope with the stressors they are encountering.
I am a psychologist at The Meier Clinics in Richardson, TX. I provide individual, group and family therapy for ages 8+. I am interested in working with anyone struggling with chronic illness, pain, sleep, depression, and anxiety, I believe that life is a journey and that, at times, all of us may encounter obstacles for which we don't have coping strategies. My role is to support and empower clients to make healthy decisions and move forward in the journey. I also conduct personality assessments for mood disorders, anxiety and other issues which may cause problems.
I use mindfulness techniques, anxiety/stress management techniques, giving clients skills to be empowered to cope with the stressors they are encountering.
I am a psychologist at The Meier Clinics in Richardson, TX. I provide individual, group and family therapy for ages 8+. I am interested in working with anyone struggling with chronic illness, pain, sleep, depression, and anxiety, I believe that life is a journey and that, at times, all of us may encounter obstacles for which we don't have coping strategies. My role is to support and empower clients to make healthy decisions and move forward in the journey. I also conduct personality assessments for mood disorders, anxiety and other issues which may cause problems.
(972) 437-4698 View (972) 437-4698
Photo of Perry Leynor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Perry Leynor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas and I am passionate about providing evidence-based treatment for all mental health disorders. I specialize in OCD, anxiety, & related disorders (BFRBs, tics, BDD, depression, ADHD, GAD, OCPD). My primary treatment strategies are Exposure & Response Prevention, CBT, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (I also integrate DBT & others). Change comes through aligning our actions with our goals, identifying and challenging negative thinking patterns, improving mindfulness practices, and developing coping & self-regulation skills. I am dedicated to working with you at YOUR pace.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas and I am passionate about providing evidence-based treatment for all mental health disorders. I specialize in OCD, anxiety, & related disorders (BFRBs, tics, BDD, depression, ADHD, GAD, OCPD). My primary treatment strategies are Exposure & Response Prevention, CBT, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (I also integrate DBT & others). Change comes through aligning our actions with our goals, identifying and challenging negative thinking patterns, improving mindfulness practices, and developing coping & self-regulation skills. I am dedicated to working with you at YOUR pace.
(214) 665-4148 View (214) 665-4148
Photo of Monica Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
In my practice, I use an integrative approach, combining evidence-based techniques like CBT, ACT, and mindfulness.
Hello! I'm delighted that you've taken this step towards prioritizing your well-being by exploring therapy. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing stress, coping with anxiety or depression, navigating loss, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, we can work towards understanding your challenges, uncovering insights, and developing practical strategies that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
In my practice, I use an integrative approach, combining evidence-based techniques like CBT, ACT, and mindfulness.
Hello! I'm delighted that you've taken this step towards prioritizing your well-being by exploring therapy. Whether you're navigating life transitions, managing stress, coping with anxiety or depression, navigating loss, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you. Together, we can work towards understanding your challenges, uncovering insights, and developing practical strategies that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
(469) 402-4684 View (469) 402-4684
Photo of K. Kimble, LMHC, LPC, NBCC, Counselor
K. Kimble
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081  (Online Only)
By developing healthy cognitive patterns, managing anxiety through mindfulness, and addressing negative self-talk, I guide clients in restoring effective functioning and alleviating depressive moods.
The ideal client is grappling with stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns in the face of life's challenges. They seek a therapist to provide practical tools for developing resilience, managing these issues, and cultivating a positive mindset. Their goal is holistic personal growth, aiming to alleviate symptoms, understand themselves on a deeper level, and set meaningful life goals. Ultimately, they are motivated by a yearning for self-empowerment, seeking a therapeutic partnership that guides them toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
By developing healthy cognitive patterns, managing anxiety through mindfulness, and addressing negative self-talk, I guide clients in restoring effective functioning and alleviating depressive moods.
The ideal client is grappling with stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns in the face of life's challenges. They seek a therapist to provide practical tools for developing resilience, managing these issues, and cultivating a positive mindset. Their goal is holistic personal growth, aiming to alleviate symptoms, understand themselves on a deeper level, and set meaningful life goals. Ultimately, they are motivated by a yearning for self-empowerment, seeking a therapeutic partnership that guides them toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
(305) 257-9779 View (305) 257-9779
Photo of Barbara Armitage, MA, LPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara Armitage
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
It is my intention and my hope to bring warmth, comfort, skill, mindfulness, confidentiality and good humor into each client partnership.
(469) 844-4258 View (469) 844-4258
Photo of Heather Agnew, MS, LCP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Agnew
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75082
I help my clients to integrate mindfulness practices into their daily lives and aid in finding an overall life balance.
There are several reasons why an individual might initially seek out help. My goal is to help each individual find their next best step in life. My focus is on helping each person find the tools and communication skills to bring their best selves forward.
I help my clients to integrate mindfulness practices into their daily lives and aid in finding an overall life balance.
There are several reasons why an individual might initially seek out help. My goal is to help each individual find their next best step in life. My focus is on helping each person find the tools and communication skills to bring their best selves forward.
(469) 620-8086 View (469) 620-8086
Photo of Jennifer Hartman, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Hartman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
In addition, I offer mindfulness courses throughout the year, teaching mindfulness skills for mind-body health, emotional regulation, self-compassion, and relationships.
Are you feeling unsure about how to handle new situations or resolve old problems? Feeling beaten down or overwhelmed by life? Do you feel as though your emotional imbalance is getting in the way of relationships, work, or your physical health? Working with an experienced professional can help you navigate the ups and downs on your life's path with more ease and acceptance, allowing you to make positive, lasting changes. My practice offers psychotherapy and wellness presentations for adults seeking greater clarity, balance, and contentment in their lives. Are you curious to see what changes could happen for you?
In addition, I offer mindfulness courses throughout the year, teaching mindfulness skills for mind-body health, emotional regulation, self-compassion, and relationships.
Are you feeling unsure about how to handle new situations or resolve old problems? Feeling beaten down or overwhelmed by life? Do you feel as though your emotional imbalance is getting in the way of relationships, work, or your physical health? Working with an experienced professional can help you navigate the ups and downs on your life's path with more ease and acceptance, allowing you to make positive, lasting changes. My practice offers psychotherapy and wellness presentations for adults seeking greater clarity, balance, and contentment in their lives. Are you curious to see what changes could happen for you?
(214) 531-3152 View (214) 531-3152
Photo of Andrea Cunningham, MS, LPC-S, CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CYT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and yoga for anxiety/trauma.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
I have extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and yoga for anxiety/trauma.
I am committed to helping my clients achieve their goals. I believe that counseling can promote a lifestyle that results in physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I focus on the client as a whole individual, rather than a disorder, and encourage healthy behaviors across various aspects of life. I conceptualize individuals and form treatment plans tailored to each client's unique characteristics, strengths, values, and needs. I work diligently to create a safe, empathic, and supportive environment for my clients.
(972) 362-6668 View (972) 362-6668
Photo of Ann Dunnewold, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Ann Dunnewold
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
I teach mindfulness meditation and yoga, expanding mind/body wellness.
I believe we're shaped by biological (heredity, diet, hormones), psychosocial (peers, family, job stress), and psychological influences (thoughts, self-esteem, perfectionism). Addressing the mind-body interaction is critical. I guide and teach, helping clients learn new skills such as meditation and meridian tapping to handle life stresses. Clients who best fit my style wish to let go of negative patterns of self-doubt, guilt, worry, and feeling "never good enough." My therapy focus is here-and-now, focusing on mind-body habits, to develop new behaviors, recondition brain connections, to go beyond mere understanding or insight.
I teach mindfulness meditation and yoga, expanding mind/body wellness.
I believe we're shaped by biological (heredity, diet, hormones), psychosocial (peers, family, job stress), and psychological influences (thoughts, self-esteem, perfectionism). Addressing the mind-body interaction is critical. I guide and teach, helping clients learn new skills such as meditation and meridian tapping to handle life stresses. Clients who best fit my style wish to let go of negative patterns of self-doubt, guilt, worry, and feeling "never good enough." My therapy focus is here-and-now, focusing on mind-body habits, to develop new behaviors, recondition brain connections, to go beyond mere understanding or insight.
(214) 343-1353 x2 View (214) 343-1353 x2
Photo of Donna Peddy, MEd, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Peddy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
I use a solution-focused, mindfulness based cognitive therapy approach that has helped thousands of individuals discover, restore and build upon their strengths.
I provide practical ways to approach some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer respect, non-judgement and empathy so that the therapeutic relationship gives you the opportunity for awareness that allows you to grow and find new ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. My clinical experience has been in counseling Adults, Children and Adolescents.
I use a solution-focused, mindfulness based cognitive therapy approach that has helped thousands of individuals discover, restore and build upon their strengths.
I provide practical ways to approach some of life's most difficult challenges. I offer respect, non-judgement and empathy so that the therapeutic relationship gives you the opportunity for awareness that allows you to grow and find new ways of thinking, feeling and behaving. My clinical experience has been in counseling Adults, Children and Adolescents.
(214) 509-7862 View (214) 509-7862
Photo of Chloe Zingaro, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chloe Zingaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I also offer DBT Skills Groups which include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
As a therapist, I want to help you develop a life worth living. We will work together to set goals, learn new coping skills, implement new behaviors, and explore values so that you can build a life that you are passionate about. In the words of Marsha Linehan, creator of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I believe, "the most caring thing a therapist can do is to help clients change in ways that bring them closer to their own ultimate goals."
I also offer DBT Skills Groups which include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness skills.
As a therapist, I want to help you develop a life worth living. We will work together to set goals, learn new coping skills, implement new behaviors, and explore values so that you can build a life that you are passionate about. In the words of Marsha Linehan, creator of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, I believe, "the most caring thing a therapist can do is to help clients change in ways that bring them closer to their own ultimate goals."
(469) 530-2267 View (469) 530-2267
Photo of Angela Lemond, MA, LPC-A, RDN LD
Angela Lemond
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, RDN LD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Her expertise areas include developmental psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, RO-DBT with an emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion.
Under the supervision of Natalie Morse, LPC-S, RPT, Angela’s counseling approach is eclectic depending on the client. Ultimately, Angela wants to harness her client’s own worldview and value system to assist them with solving problems. All guidance is person-centered in nature. Christian integration upon request.
Her expertise areas include developmental psychology, cognitive-behavioral therapy, DBT, RO-DBT with an emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion.
Under the supervision of Natalie Morse, LPC-S, RPT, Angela’s counseling approach is eclectic depending on the client. Ultimately, Angela wants to harness her client’s own worldview and value system to assist them with solving problems. All guidance is person-centered in nature. Christian integration upon request.
(972) 474-1224 View (972) 474-1224
Photo of Shavana Lopez, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shavana Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081
Utilizing a variety of methods Shavana’s uses ranges from client-centered, solution focused, CBT, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Shavana has tremendous experience working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, familial concerns, depression, relationship/premarital concerns, sexual abuse, domestic violence, teen violence, emotional disturbance, stress, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, women’s issues, multi-cultural barriers, and communication. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health industry. She works with a variety of populations ranging from adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
Utilizing a variety of methods Shavana’s uses ranges from client-centered, solution focused, CBT, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Shavana has tremendous experience working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, familial concerns, depression, relationship/premarital concerns, sexual abuse, domestic violence, teen violence, emotional disturbance, stress, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, women’s issues, multi-cultural barriers, and communication. She has over a decade of experience in the mental health industry. She works with a variety of populations ranging from adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(214) 833-5754 View (214) 833-5754
Photo of Aimee Diane Halloran, MS, CRC, BCN
Aimee Diane Halloran
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, CRC, BCN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I embrace a person-centered approach, while integrating various methods such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy with adults.
As a counselor specializing in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, ADHD, insomnia, TBI, Autism, and memory challenges, I'm here to empathetically listen and support you on your journey. I value clients who are motivated to engage in a collaboration, aiming to cultivate self-regulation and coping skills that can enhance their daily lives. I am drawn to those who share an eagerness to enhance both cognitive functioning and emotional regulation, driven by a desire to be a better person, spouse, parent, sibling or supportive person to others. I work with clients of all ages across the lifespan.
I embrace a person-centered approach, while integrating various methods such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy with adults.
As a counselor specializing in the assessment and treatment of anxiety, depression, OCD, behavioral issues, ADHD, insomnia, TBI, Autism, and memory challenges, I'm here to empathetically listen and support you on your journey. I value clients who are motivated to engage in a collaboration, aiming to cultivate self-regulation and coping skills that can enhance their daily lives. I am drawn to those who share an eagerness to enhance both cognitive functioning and emotional regulation, driven by a desire to be a better person, spouse, parent, sibling or supportive person to others. I work with clients of all ages across the lifespan.
(972) 433-5827 View (972) 433-5827
Photo of Sarah A Yonamine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah A Yonamine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75081  (Online Only)
My trauma based counseling includes: Person Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation and EMDR therapy.
I can offer you, as my client, a safe, calm, and respectful environment where you can tell your story and be heard. Together we can set up goals for your treatment and work towards healing for your mind and body. My experience and focus is on counseling clients who have issues related to: trauma, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol addiction, toxic work environment, domestic abuse, life transitioning due to aging, relationship and women's issues.
My trauma based counseling includes: Person Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Meditation and EMDR therapy.
I can offer you, as my client, a safe, calm, and respectful environment where you can tell your story and be heard. Together we can set up goals for your treatment and work towards healing for your mind and body. My experience and focus is on counseling clients who have issues related to: trauma, PTSD, grief, anxiety, depression, drug and alcohol addiction, toxic work environment, domestic abuse, life transitioning due to aging, relationship and women's issues.
(469) 264-8332 View (469) 264-8332
Photo of Snehal Kanitkar, MS, LPC-A
Snehal Kanitkar
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75083
I work from an attachment perspective and also incorporate mindfulness-based techniques which are simple to implement no matter how busy you are.
Are you struggling with communication in your relationship? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed as you transition to parenthood, a new job, or simply a new phase in life? Maybe you’re feeling anxious or low, and it’s affecting your day to day. We can work together to help you feel less isolated and more like your real self. I help clients who feel disconnected from themselves, or each other, find that connection. I especially love working with couples, mothers, and anyone who struggles with anxiety.
I work from an attachment perspective and also incorporate mindfulness-based techniques which are simple to implement no matter how busy you are.
Are you struggling with communication in your relationship? Are you feeling stuck and overwhelmed as you transition to parenthood, a new job, or simply a new phase in life? Maybe you’re feeling anxious or low, and it’s affecting your day to day. We can work together to help you feel less isolated and more like your real self. I help clients who feel disconnected from themselves, or each other, find that connection. I especially love working with couples, mothers, and anyone who struggles with anxiety.
(972) 600-2035 View (972) 600-2035
Photo of Nakhal Zafar, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nakhal Zafar
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75082
I draw from Solution-Focused Therapy, Adlerian principles, and Mindfulness techniques to tailor my support to the unique needs of each person I work with.
Are you searching for a space where you're free to express your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment? Allow me to introduce myself – Nakhal Zafar. My aim is to foster a nurturing, empathetic space for individuals, couples, and families to openly navigate their experiences – challenges or triumphs. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for individual experiences.
I draw from Solution-Focused Therapy, Adlerian principles, and Mindfulness techniques to tailor my support to the unique needs of each person I work with.
Are you searching for a space where you're free to express your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment? Allow me to introduce myself – Nakhal Zafar. My aim is to foster a nurturing, empathetic space for individuals, couples, and families to openly navigate their experiences – challenges or triumphs. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a deep respect for individual experiences.
(214) 427-8057 View (214) 427-8057
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.