Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Concord, VA

Photo of Ashly Bradley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashly Bradley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Concord, VA 24538
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques.
I'm Ashly Bradley, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families across various settings. My primary focus has been in school-based therapeutic programs, where I've provided services such as therapeutic day treatment, school-based outpatient therapy, group therapy, and individual therapy. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and various life stressors.
I earned my Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques.
I'm Ashly Bradley, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families across various settings. My primary focus has been in school-based therapeutic programs, where I've provided services such as therapeutic day treatment, school-based outpatient therapy, group therapy, and individual therapy. I specialize in supporting clients dealing with ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and various life stressors.
(434) 577-8236 View (434) 577-8236
Photo of Amelia Jacokes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amelia Jacokes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Concord, VA 24538
I became familiar with working with a wide variety of individuals in need of mental health care, from substance use disorders and postpartum PTSD to situational depression and panic disorder, drawing therapeutic interventions from a broad mix of treatment styles, from Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to Psychodrama and Mindfulness.
Do you want to learn more about yourself and how you walk through life? Do you experience difficulties in areas that others seem to have a relatively easy time managing? I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia and California (license numbers: VA: 0904013582, CA: 99619). I spent my internship years working with dementia patients as well as gaining experience with the chronic pain population. By working in the intensive outpatient program environment,
I became familiar with working with a wide variety of individuals in need of mental health care, from substance use disorders and postpartum PTSD to situational depression and panic disorder, drawing therapeutic interventions from a broad mix of treatment styles, from Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy to Psychodrama and Mindfulness.
Do you want to learn more about yourself and how you walk through life? Do you experience difficulties in areas that others seem to have a relatively easy time managing? I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia and California (license numbers: VA: 0904013582, CA: 99619). I spent my internship years working with dementia patients as well as gaining experience with the chronic pain population. By working in the intensive outpatient program environment,
(757) 517-8409 View (757) 517-8409
Photo of Pamela Pierce, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Concord, VA 24538  (Online Only)
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
(434) 505-4907 View (434) 505-4907
Photo of Danielle Ott, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Ott
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Concord, VA 24538
I am Danielle Ott, a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors. I provide therapy and counseling to adults, teens, and couples who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and challenges regarding religion, spirituality, and the church. I completed undergraduate degrees at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, and Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. I also completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Liberty University, where I graduated with distinction.
I am Danielle Ott, a Resident in Counseling in the state of Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor with the National Board of Certified Counselors. I provide therapy and counseling to adults, teens, and couples who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, and challenges regarding religion, spirituality, and the church. I completed undergraduate degrees at Valencia College in Orlando, Florida, and Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. I also completed my Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Liberty University, where I graduated with distinction.
(434) 602-6532 View (434) 602-6532
Photo of Heather Duncan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Concord, VA 24538  (Online Only)
I'm Heather Duncan, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience, alongside 14 years of working with severely mentally ill individuals in various community mental health agencies. I specialize in a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, peri and post-natal challenges, as well as chronic pain and chronic illnesses.
I'm Heather Duncan, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience, alongside 14 years of working with severely mentally ill individuals in various community mental health agencies. I specialize in a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship concerns, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, peri and post-natal challenges, as well as chronic pain and chronic illnesses.
(434) 505-4852 View (434) 505-4852
Photo of Tiffany Jackson Mioduszewski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Jackson Mioduszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Concord, VA 24538  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience, specializing in trauma and its effects on mental health. I typically work with children, teens, adults, and seniors dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience, specializing in trauma and its effects on mental health. I typically work with children, teens, adults, and seniors dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
(434) 771-2591 View (434) 771-2591

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debra Crowder, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Crowder
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Rustburg, VA 24588
Are you are feeling sad, irritable or empty? Do you have trouble concentrating? Have you had a panic attack? What about nightmares or disturbing recollections of past frightening events? If so, therapy can help. Adolescents and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, violence, bullying, loss of a loved one, divorce, or relationship problems can find relief through therapy.
Are you are feeling sad, irritable or empty? Do you have trouble concentrating? Have you had a panic attack? What about nightmares or disturbing recollections of past frightening events? If so, therapy can help. Adolescents and adults who have experienced abuse, neglect, violence, bullying, loss of a loved one, divorce, or relationship problems can find relief through therapy.
(434) 201-7401 View (434) 201-7401
Photo of Tamara Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rustburg, VA 24588
My name is Tamara Powell LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP, RPT. I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can explore the issues and challenges they face. I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic partnership to help uncover the strengths and resources we all possess in order to bring about the changes we desire in our lives. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better.
My name is Tamara Powell LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP, RPT. I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can explore the issues and challenges they face. I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic partnership to help uncover the strengths and resources we all possess in order to bring about the changes we desire in our lives. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better.
(703) 639-4039 View (703) 639-4039
Photo of Ken Blanchard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ken Blanchard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24501
I am passionate about helping people. I believe strongly that the foundation of successful therapy is having a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, and that each one must believe that my office is a safe place to be authentic and honest about their struggles. This is the basis for being able to treat the underlying issue, and not just the symptom. I am a Christian counselor, and trust God to lead me with His wisdom to help each person. I combine this with sound, evidence based therapeutic techniques/systems to help my clients find true freedom!
I am passionate about helping people. I believe strongly that the foundation of successful therapy is having a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients, and that each one must believe that my office is a safe place to be authentic and honest about their struggles. This is the basis for being able to treat the underlying issue, and not just the symptom. I am a Christian counselor, and trust God to lead me with His wisdom to help each person. I combine this with sound, evidence based therapeutic techniques/systems to help my clients find true freedom!
(434) 480-4203 View (434) 480-4203

Online Therapists

Photo of Amanda Kizer, LPC, MA, EdS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Kizer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401
I recognize and respect the courage it takes to begin counseling. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate environment in order to work on identified issues and bring about hope, peace and well-being. Common concerns addressed in counseling include: play therapy, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, anger and attachment, and mood disorders. I work holistically, focusing on emotional, relational, spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Counseling theories utilized include cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal process, and mindfulness.
I recognize and respect the courage it takes to begin counseling. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate environment in order to work on identified issues and bring about hope, peace and well-being. Common concerns addressed in counseling include: play therapy, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, anger and attachment, and mood disorders. I work holistically, focusing on emotional, relational, spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Counseling theories utilized include cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal process, and mindfulness.
(540) 584-8263 View (540) 584-8263
Photo of Sandra Cushner Weinstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Cushner Weinstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Petersburg, VA 23803  (Online Only)
Sandra Cushner-Weinstein has a long history of counseling individuals who live with depression, anxiety, and/or a chronic health condition. She also facilitates groups, trains leaders, and works with couples. As a practicing clinician, Sandra provides counseling for adults, parents, and teens. She is versatile and eclectic in her approach and commonly uses (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices to help reduce anxiety and depression, improve focus, and manage trauma. Sandy appreciates the complexity of family systems and helps to promote more effective communication, knowledge, feelings of control, wellness, an
Sandra Cushner-Weinstein has a long history of counseling individuals who live with depression, anxiety, and/or a chronic health condition. She also facilitates groups, trains leaders, and works with couples. As a practicing clinician, Sandra provides counseling for adults, parents, and teens. She is versatile and eclectic in her approach and commonly uses (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices to help reduce anxiety and depression, improve focus, and manage trauma. Sandy appreciates the complexity of family systems and helps to promote more effective communication, knowledge, feelings of control, wellness, an
(757) 693-9402 View (757) 693-9402
Photo of Maryfrances Porter, PhD, Psychologist
Maryfrances Porter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Porter integrates cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment, and cognitive processing therapy with mindfulness and insight to tailor an approach for each client.
Dr. Maryfrances Porter is a licensed clinical psychologist. She works from an attachment orientation to treat people facing personal, relationship, and emotional struggles of all kinds. Dr. Porter is committed to allyship. Dr. Porter also offers telehealth for teens and adults in the following locations: AL, AZ, AR, CO, Northern Mariana Islands, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
Porter integrates cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment, and cognitive processing therapy with mindfulness and insight to tailor an approach for each client.
Dr. Maryfrances Porter is a licensed clinical psychologist. She works from an attachment orientation to treat people facing personal, relationship, and emotional struggles of all kinds. Dr. Porter is committed to allyship. Dr. Porter also offers telehealth for teens and adults in the following locations: AL, AZ, AR, CO, Northern Mariana Islands, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, ME, MD, MI, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NC, ND, OH, OK, PA, RI, SC, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI, WY
(434) 825-4841 View (434) 825-4841
Photo of Josh Shorter, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josh Shorter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Some of my therapeutic models include Mindfulness, CBT, Solution-focused Therapy, and Systems Theory.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
Some of my therapeutic models include Mindfulness, CBT, Solution-focused Therapy, and Systems Theory.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
(540) 501-7887 View (540) 501-7887
Photo of Brittany Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittany Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
We will incorporate mindfulness in addition to coping skills that best work for you! I understand starting therapy can be scary.
Hey, I’m Brittany! Do you feel anxiety, grief, or unsure by life changes and transitions? Are you struggling in relationships with your spouse, friends, or family? Do you find it difficult to set boundaries or use assertive communication? I help individuals manage symptoms of anxiety, grief, and depression caused by life transitions.
We will incorporate mindfulness in addition to coping skills that best work for you! I understand starting therapy can be scary.
Hey, I’m Brittany! Do you feel anxiety, grief, or unsure by life changes and transitions? Are you struggling in relationships with your spouse, friends, or family? Do you find it difficult to set boundaries or use assertive communication? I help individuals manage symptoms of anxiety, grief, and depression caused by life transitions.
(804) 575-7595 View (804) 575-7595
Photo of Jessica Hodges, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Hodges
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I also utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, and Mindfulness interventions.
My name is Jessica Hodges. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Substance Abuse counselor in the state of Virginia. I practice from a person-centered modality while working with my clients to develop treatment goals. I specialize in addiction, anxiety, and emotional regulation. I am most comfortable in treating clients aged 18 and older. I believe that as long as my clients aim for improved mental health, we can work together to achieve that! I believe in open and honest communication with my clients. Full transparency with professional boundaries is essential in encouraging change.
I also utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, and Mindfulness interventions.
My name is Jessica Hodges. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Substance Abuse counselor in the state of Virginia. I practice from a person-centered modality while working with my clients to develop treatment goals. I specialize in addiction, anxiety, and emotional regulation. I am most comfortable in treating clients aged 18 and older. I believe that as long as my clients aim for improved mental health, we can work together to achieve that! I believe in open and honest communication with my clients. Full transparency with professional boundaries is essential in encouraging change.
(804) 589-4095 View (804) 589-4095
Photo of Martina D. Taylor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martina D. Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23231  (Online Only)
I often implement CBT, Person-Centered, SFT, mindfulness-based, and multicultural frameworks.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice with a background working with individuals and groups of various ages, cultures, and backgrounds. With 10 years of experience in the juvenile justice system, I strive to assist youth who may be struggling to improve their family dynamic, while working on their individual conflicts. I also have experience working with members of the LGBTQ+, to include those who may be struggling with gender identity. If you are struggling with substance use, I am knowledgeable in individual as well as group therapy utilizing evidence-based techniques.
I often implement CBT, Person-Centered, SFT, mindfulness-based, and multicultural frameworks.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice with a background working with individuals and groups of various ages, cultures, and backgrounds. With 10 years of experience in the juvenile justice system, I strive to assist youth who may be struggling to improve their family dynamic, while working on their individual conflicts. I also have experience working with members of the LGBTQ+, to include those who may be struggling with gender identity. If you are struggling with substance use, I am knowledgeable in individual as well as group therapy utilizing evidence-based techniques.
(804) 531-3893 View (804) 531-3893
Photo of Laura L Cook, RIC, LPC Intern
Laura L Cook
LPC Intern, RIC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112
Through time at non profits and private practice, I have shaped a multicultural, lgbtgq, client-focused, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy approach, blending calming and grounding techniques while working to alleviate faulty cognitions to change our emotions and, eventually, our actions.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if something in your life was different? Or thought to yourself, "I wish that I could chase my dreams," but got overwhelmed once finally sitting down to attempt to set goals for yourself? Have you ever hoped that someone could just SEE you or honestly listen to what you say or think in life without judgment? Someone to "walk' alongside the true you? Are these questions themselves causing you anxiety or leaving you feeling stuck after answering yes to at least one? If so, you are not alone. You're having a human experience, and these challenges are incredibly typical throughout one's life.
Through time at non profits and private practice, I have shaped a multicultural, lgbtgq, client-focused, mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy approach, blending calming and grounding techniques while working to alleviate faulty cognitions to change our emotions and, eventually, our actions.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if something in your life was different? Or thought to yourself, "I wish that I could chase my dreams," but got overwhelmed once finally sitting down to attempt to set goals for yourself? Have you ever hoped that someone could just SEE you or honestly listen to what you say or think in life without judgment? Someone to "walk' alongside the true you? Are these questions themselves causing you anxiety or leaving you feeling stuck after answering yes to at least one? If so, you are not alone. You're having a human experience, and these challenges are incredibly typical throughout one's life.
(804) 676-6068 View (804) 676-6068
Photo of Dolores Cancino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dolores Cancino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Prince George, VA 23875  (Online Only)
With a focus on strengths based therapy, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client, integrating evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma informed care.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and empowerment. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals, couples and families can explore their challenges and discover new paths forward. With years of experience in clinical practice, I am passionate about helping people find hope and reclaim control over their lives. I am committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey toward mental and emotional wellness.
With a focus on strengths based therapy, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client, integrating evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and trauma informed care.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), my approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and empowerment. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals, couples and families can explore their challenges and discover new paths forward. With years of experience in clinical practice, I am passionate about helping people find hope and reclaim control over their lives. I am committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey toward mental and emotional wellness.
(804) 567-8638 View (804) 567-8638
Photo of Kim Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22902  (Online Only)
Hello and warmest welcome to you. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 16 years experience working within community mental health, school based programs and university counseling centers. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress management. I work to create a space that feels safe, nurturing, mindful and trustworthy. A place where you can feel heard, seen, supported and can express yourself freely and safely. Some modalities include Mindfulness Based practices, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment therapy and more.
Hello and warmest welcome to you. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 16 years experience working within community mental health, school based programs and university counseling centers. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions and stress management. I work to create a space that feels safe, nurturing, mindful and trustworthy. A place where you can feel heard, seen, supported and can express yourself freely and safely. Some modalities include Mindfulness Based practices, Strength Based, Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment therapy and more.
(434) 361-3744 View (434) 361-3744
Photo of Sharena Goosun, LRC
Sharena Goosun
Resident in Counseling, LRC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23116
In her spare time, Sharena enjoys crafting, making accessories, DIY projects, traveling, community service, spending quality time with family, and participating in mindfulness activities such as yoga, exercising, and mediation.
Sharena Goosun, QMHP-T Sharena Goosun is a Qualified Mental Health Professional Trainee in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Sharena believes in an approach to mental health therapy that is diverse among utilizing various theoretical approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed, and strengths-based perspectives.
In her spare time, Sharena enjoys crafting, making accessories, DIY projects, traveling, community service, spending quality time with family, and participating in mindfulness activities such as yoga, exercising, and mediation.
Sharena Goosun, QMHP-T Sharena Goosun is a Qualified Mental Health Professional Trainee in Virginia who has been practicing since 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Sharena believes in an approach to mental health therapy that is diverse among utilizing various theoretical approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, trauma-informed, and strengths-based perspectives.
(757) 654-5596 View (757) 654-5596

See more therapy options for Concord

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.