Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Farmville, VA

Photo of LaQuita S Williams, LPC, CSOTP, CSAC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaQuita S Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CSAC-S
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901  (Online Only)
La'Quita utilizes a wide range of therapeutic approaches including relational, collaborative, strength-based, person-centered, mindfulness-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Meet La’Quita, a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Virginia with over 11 years of experience. She is the new C.E.O. of E.L.E.V.A.T.E. Counseling Services, LLC. She provides therapeutic services to diverse populations, focusing on addictions, depression, anxiety, marriage issues, and more. La’Quita holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in science from Longwood University, and is currently pursuing a doctorate at Liberty University.
La'Quita utilizes a wide range of therapeutic approaches including relational, collaborative, strength-based, person-centered, mindfulness-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Meet La’Quita, a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Virginia with over 11 years of experience. She is the new C.E.O. of E.L.E.V.A.T.E. Counseling Services, LLC. She provides therapeutic services to diverse populations, focusing on addictions, depression, anxiety, marriage issues, and more. La’Quita holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in science from Longwood University, and is currently pursuing a doctorate at Liberty University.
(571) 493-3906 View (571) 493-3906
Photo of Lucas Baker, LPC Intern
Lucas Baker
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmville, VA 23901
Seeking help can feel overwhelming and scary, and learning a little about me and my views on the counseling process can help you decide if I am the right fit for you. As a humanist counselor, I provide a holistic, collaborative approach, emphasizing the inherent worth and potential of each individual. I create an inclusive, empathetic environment, focusing on self-awareness, empowerment, and resilience. I support clients facing systemic oppression, gender-based challenges, and identity issues using various therapeutic techniques like mindfulness, CBT, DBT, solution-focused and somatic experiencing to meet each client's unique needs.
Seeking help can feel overwhelming and scary, and learning a little about me and my views on the counseling process can help you decide if I am the right fit for you. As a humanist counselor, I provide a holistic, collaborative approach, emphasizing the inherent worth and potential of each individual. I create an inclusive, empathetic environment, focusing on self-awareness, empowerment, and resilience. I support clients facing systemic oppression, gender-based challenges, and identity issues using various therapeutic techniques like mindfulness, CBT, DBT, solution-focused and somatic experiencing to meet each client's unique needs.
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Photo of Robert J. Messarge Jr., MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert J. Messarge Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901
I also engage in talk therapy and mindfulness-based exercises to help promote positive thought processing and healthy emotional regulation within the client's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida, who specializes in treating a range of relational issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, and depression. As both a husband and father of two children, I understand the importance of how communication, conflict resolution, and boundaries can contribute to building healthier relationships. I desire to help clients develop healthier relationships not only with others but also within themselves while also developing healthier coping skills to promote emotional regulation and wellness within their lives.
I also engage in talk therapy and mindfulness-based exercises to help promote positive thought processing and healthy emotional regulation within the client's life.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida, who specializes in treating a range of relational issues, adjustment disorders, anxiety, and depression. As both a husband and father of two children, I understand the importance of how communication, conflict resolution, and boundaries can contribute to building healthier relationships. I desire to help clients develop healthier relationships not only with others but also within themselves while also developing healthier coping skills to promote emotional regulation and wellness within their lives.
(434) 201-3121 View (434) 201-3121
Photo of Matt Runda, MA, LPC
Matt Runda
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901  (Online Only)
My primary focus in treatment has been problematic pornography use where I take a mindfulness-based approach to assist with building awareness, identifying high risk situations, and establishing self accountability.
I am an LPC in the state of Virginia and currently a CSAT Candidate to treat sexual addiction. Through treatment, I enjoy helping clients build a sense of empowerment through the identification and implementation of resources and skills. I aim to assist clients with obtaining lasting change through holistic (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social) consideration and collaboration to promote lasting progress. I have experience working with problematic pornography use, behavioral disorders in children, anxiety, and spiritual bypass/trauma.
My primary focus in treatment has been problematic pornography use where I take a mindfulness-based approach to assist with building awareness, identifying high risk situations, and establishing self accountability.
I am an LPC in the state of Virginia and currently a CSAT Candidate to treat sexual addiction. Through treatment, I enjoy helping clients build a sense of empowerment through the identification and implementation of resources and skills. I aim to assist clients with obtaining lasting change through holistic (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social) consideration and collaboration to promote lasting progress. I have experience working with problematic pornography use, behavioral disorders in children, anxiety, and spiritual bypass/trauma.
(434) 394-2322 View (434) 394-2322
Photo of Danielle Crane, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901
Greetings! I am Danielle Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My focus areas include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, etc. I have been a practicing Clinician for over 10 years. I have experience working with various individuals (children, adolescents, adults) who have a wide range of needs, including anxiety, depression, anger management, boundary issues, conduct issues, and interpersonal communication skills.
Greetings! I am Danielle Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My focus areas include Anxiety, Coping Skills, Depression, Relationship Issues, Self Esteem, etc. I have been a practicing Clinician for over 10 years. I have experience working with various individuals (children, adolescents, adults) who have a wide range of needs, including anxiety, depression, anger management, boundary issues, conduct issues, and interpersonal communication skills.
(757) 906-6105 View (757) 906-6105
Photo of Chrissy Farrow, MEd, LMHP-R
Chrissy Farrow
Resident in Counseling, MEd, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Farmville, VA 23901
The decision to begin therapy can take a great deal of vulnerability and courage. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and other personal experiences with someone unfamiliar can be difficult and it's important to work with a counselor who allows you to be completely authentic as you begin your journey of personal growth and healing. I take pride in providing a safe, judgement-free environment for each individual I work with in order to help them meet their fullest potential.
The decision to begin therapy can take a great deal of vulnerability and courage. Sharing your thoughts, feelings, and other personal experiences with someone unfamiliar can be difficult and it's important to work with a counselor who allows you to be completely authentic as you begin your journey of personal growth and healing. I take pride in providing a safe, judgement-free environment for each individual I work with in order to help them meet their fullest potential.
(434) 885-1372 View (434) 885-1372
Photo of Joseph Autry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Autry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901
Nice to meet you! My name is Joseph Autry and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, substance use, personality, mood regulation, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, PTSD, eating disorders, and problems with trauma. I will often use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy are forms of therapy I usually like to use as well. I believe that being a therapist has allowed me to work and help clients who are feeling depressed and having thoughts of wanting to hurt
Nice to meet you! My name is Joseph Autry and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, substance use, personality, mood regulation, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, PTSD, eating disorders, and problems with trauma. I will often use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy are forms of therapy I usually like to use as well. I believe that being a therapist has allowed me to work and help clients who are feeling depressed and having thoughts of wanting to hurt
(571) 554-5377 View (571) 554-5377
Photo of Jennifer Bunn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Bunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23901
Jennifer works with adolescents and adults to improve their mental health and overall functioning and has helped clients with a variety of diagnoses and disturbing life experiences. She is skilled at uncovering what is at the root of issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ptsd, etc.. and facilitating effective treatment. While some therapists practice talk therapy only, Jennifer believes in teaching her clients skills that will empower them to make and maintain lasting changes, improving their own quality of life and the lives of future generations of the family.
Jennifer works with adolescents and adults to improve their mental health and overall functioning and has helped clients with a variety of diagnoses and disturbing life experiences. She is skilled at uncovering what is at the root of issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ptsd, etc.. and facilitating effective treatment. While some therapists practice talk therapy only, Jennifer believes in teaching her clients skills that will empower them to make and maintain lasting changes, improving their own quality of life and the lives of future generations of the family.
(434) 830-5515 View (434) 830-5515
Photo of Kendra Rascoe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Rascoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Farmville, VA 23909
My name is Kendra Rascoe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and graduated from Liberty University with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with clients in Virginia statewide through telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationships. I utilize an integrative and person-centered approach using a combination of theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family systems, and Solution-focused.
My name is Kendra Rascoe, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and graduated from Liberty University with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with clients in Virginia statewide through telehealth. I work with adults, adolescents, and children. I specialize in anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationships. I utilize an integrative and person-centered approach using a combination of theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family systems, and Solution-focused.
(757) 859-9660 View (757) 859-9660

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Renae Willis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renae Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rice, VA 23966
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am an LCSW, licensed in the state of VA, with many years of experience treating children, teens, adults, couples and families. I enjoy working with clients from a wide array of backgrounds and across the lifespan.
Thank you for looking at my profile. I am an LCSW, licensed in the state of VA, with many years of experience treating children, teens, adults, couples and families. I enjoy working with clients from a wide array of backgrounds and across the lifespan.
(571) 604-6482 View (571) 604-6482

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Dishner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Dishner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
I teach mindfulness practices to help bring compassion and awareness to feelings and moments.
I am Jennifer Dishner, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with a wide variety of populations in many different settings, including public schools, inpatient hospital units, and community work. Helping individuals and families find their strengths and self-worth is a major role of my clinical work. It is through this clinical work that I believe clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Longwood University in Virginia and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lynchburg College.
I teach mindfulness practices to help bring compassion and awareness to feelings and moments.
I am Jennifer Dishner, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked with a wide variety of populations in many different settings, including public schools, inpatient hospital units, and community work. Helping individuals and families find their strengths and self-worth is a major role of my clinical work. It is through this clinical work that I believe clients are best able to realize their potential growth and maintain positive change. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Longwood University in Virginia and my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Lynchburg College.
(804) 294-4187 View (804) 294-4187
Photo of Lakesha Mosley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakesha Mosley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220
She uses an eclectic therapeutic approach including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), emotional regulation, and solution-focused interventions.
Lakesha Mosley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who enjoys working with both adults and children in the areas of trauma, relationship issues, breaking addictions, depression, and anxiety. Lakesha has 4 years of experience in the mental health field and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
She uses an eclectic therapeutic approach including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), emotional regulation, and solution-focused interventions.
Lakesha Mosley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who enjoys working with both adults and children in the areas of trauma, relationship issues, breaking addictions, depression, and anxiety. Lakesha has 4 years of experience in the mental health field and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
(804) 465-9886 View (804) 465-9886
Photo of Candace Benn - Dr. Candace Benn, Holistic Life Coach , EdD, LPC-R, RYT
Dr. Candace Benn, Holistic Life Coach
EdD, LPC-R, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, VA 23836
As a Holistic Life Coach, I specialize in helping you move through functional freeze stress response, cognitive diffusion, identity trauma, or feeling of being stuck. By combining mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), personalized movement and relaxation techniques, I guide clients toward emotional clarity and resilience. My approach integrates trauma-informed care with holistic tools to help you reconnect with your true self, release mental and physical blocks, and cultivate self-compassion. Together, we’ll work to restore balance, break free from limiting patterns, and embrace a life of purpose and fulfillment.
As a Holistic Life Coach, I specialize in helping you move through functional freeze stress response, cognitive diffusion, identity trauma, or feeling of being stuck. By combining mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), personalized movement and relaxation techniques, I guide clients toward emotional clarity and resilience. My approach integrates trauma-informed care with holistic tools to help you reconnect with your true self, release mental and physical blocks, and cultivate self-compassion. Together, we’ll work to restore balance, break free from limiting patterns, and embrace a life of purpose and fulfillment.
(804) 507-5021 View (804) 507-5021
Photo of Marlene Wright, LCSW, CCTP, CHHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlene Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CHHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23235
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Nutrition Methods, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Expressive Arts, to bring about long standing changes.
Are you a woman struggling with health issues, chronic pain, trauma, anxiety or depression? Perhaps you can't remember the last time you felt good emotionally or physically. Maybe you are a woman who lacks the motivation to incorporate self care into your life which has left you feeling trapped in your own personal discomfort. No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, there is a solution. I believe that all women deserve to be vibrant, happy, strong and live a life of abundant health. Psychotherapy, proper nutrition, and lifestyle management can reverse or prevent disease and improve your mood drastically.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Integrative Nutrition Methods, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Expressive Arts, to bring about long standing changes.
Are you a woman struggling with health issues, chronic pain, trauma, anxiety or depression? Perhaps you can't remember the last time you felt good emotionally or physically. Maybe you are a woman who lacks the motivation to incorporate self care into your life which has left you feeling trapped in your own personal discomfort. No matter what challenges you may be experiencing, there is a solution. I believe that all women deserve to be vibrant, happy, strong and live a life of abundant health. Psychotherapy, proper nutrition, and lifestyle management can reverse or prevent disease and improve your mood drastically.
(804) 298-7402 View (804) 298-7402
Photo of Atieno Bird, MA, CP
Atieno Bird
MA, CP
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
I also have an MA in conflict resolution, and am trained in Appreciative Inquiry, somatic, and mindfulness methods.
Are you feeling out of resources, stuck, alone, or like your goals are out of reach? Do you long for more self-acceptance, ease and joy in your body, your life, and this world? Do you want to strengthen your wise and loving parts and end self-sabotage? I'm here for all of it. If you feel blocked but aren't sure how - or even if - freedom is possible, I offer a blend of tools and knowledge, a process that stays true to your own process, but most importantly, my grounded presence, attuned intuition, and whole attention.
I also have an MA in conflict resolution, and am trained in Appreciative Inquiry, somatic, and mindfulness methods.
Are you feeling out of resources, stuck, alone, or like your goals are out of reach? Do you long for more self-acceptance, ease and joy in your body, your life, and this world? Do you want to strengthen your wise and loving parts and end self-sabotage? I'm here for all of it. If you feel blocked but aren't sure how - or even if - freedom is possible, I offer a blend of tools and knowledge, a process that stays true to your own process, but most importantly, my grounded presence, attuned intuition, and whole attention.
(540) 792-3589 View (540) 792-3589
Photo of Abel Vaughn-Valencia, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Abel Vaughn-Valencia
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
My therapy interventions are primarily based in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness-Based CBT.
As a licensed Resident in Counseling, I have a passion for working with individual adults, adolescents, and families in areas such as PTSD and complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life issues, grief and loss, neurodiversity, and various mood, depression and anxiety disorders.
My therapy interventions are primarily based in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy, as well as CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness-Based CBT.
As a licensed Resident in Counseling, I have a passion for working with individual adults, adolescents, and families in areas such as PTSD and complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, phase of life issues, grief and loss, neurodiversity, and various mood, depression and anxiety disorders.
(804) 455-8108 View (804) 455-8108
Photo of Tiffany P. Olds, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany P. Olds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223  (Online Only)
e: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Are you feeling anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to balance work, school, relationships, finances, family, and other responsibilities? Are you struggling with imposter syndrome, battling continuous negative thoughts, or finding it tough to get through daily tasks due to a crisis, trauma, or grief? Could you use someone to talk to? I'm here to create a non-judgmental safe space where you can feel heard, seen, respected, and supported. My ultimate goal and passion is to help you work through life's challenges, find solutions, and develop a toolbox of healthy coping skills to lead a happier, health
e: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Are you feeling anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed? Do you find it challenging to balance work, school, relationships, finances, family, and other responsibilities? Are you struggling with imposter syndrome, battling continuous negative thoughts, or finding it tough to get through daily tasks due to a crisis, trauma, or grief? Could you use someone to talk to? I'm here to create a non-judgmental safe space where you can feel heard, seen, respected, and supported. My ultimate goal and passion is to help you work through life's challenges, find solutions, and develop a toolbox of healthy coping skills to lead a happier, health
(804) 294-4584 View (804) 294-4584
Photo of Sakura Pate, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sakura Pate
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23114
I utilize different treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a person-centered approach, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
I am Sakura Pate, a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with over 10 years of experience in healthcare, addressing mental and physical health needs. I have a passion for helping adults and couples take control and improve the quality of their lives. I benefited from talk therapy early in life and understand the life-changing experience it can be. From the beginning of my career in social work, I have used compassion and empathy to support and encourage my clients to live more meaningful lives. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and major life transitions.
I utilize different treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a person-centered approach, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.
I am Sakura Pate, a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with over 10 years of experience in healthcare, addressing mental and physical health needs. I have a passion for helping adults and couples take control and improve the quality of their lives. I benefited from talk therapy early in life and understand the life-changing experience it can be. From the beginning of my career in social work, I have used compassion and empathy to support and encourage my clients to live more meaningful lives. I specialize in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and major life transitions.
(804) 581-1961 View (804) 581-1961
Photo of Afton Cordoba - Blue Ridge Counseling Connection, LPC, ASDCS, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blue Ridge Counseling Connection
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ASDCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crozet, VA 22932
Afton has experience working with individuals in the areas of anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions. Afton believes that every person is fully capable of change, growth and healing. Her work focuses on empowering clients to recognize their inner strengths and cultivate healthy mindsets. Afton integrates elements of cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused therapy to aid clients in challenging negative thought processes, setting goals and envisioning their future selves. She also uses mindfulness as a way to help clients explore their present situation and find joy and peace.
Afton has experience working with individuals in the areas of anxiety, depression, interpersonal conflict, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions. Afton believes that every person is fully capable of change, growth and healing. Her work focuses on empowering clients to recognize their inner strengths and cultivate healthy mindsets. Afton integrates elements of cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused therapy to aid clients in challenging negative thought processes, setting goals and envisioning their future selves. She also uses mindfulness as a way to help clients explore their present situation and find joy and peace.
(540) 709-8984 View (540) 709-8984
Photo of Esther Reynolds, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esther Reynolds
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Harrisonburg, VA 22801  (Online Only)
I often incorporate mindfulness, insight-oriented approaches, and storytelling in my sessions, depending on an individual’s uniqueness.
Do you notice that you get tired easily and lack of energy without medical reasons? Do you feel sad, hopeless, worthless, and empty? Do you have sleep disturbance, either insomnia or sleeping too much? Do you experience frequent anxiety, agitation, and/or restlessness? Do you sometimes react adversely to a trigger that reminds you of past traumatic experiences, either consciously or unconsciously? I believe that your motivation is key to success and that all motivation must start with a destination, chosen by you. I see myself just as a facilitator, guiding you toward that destination.
I often incorporate mindfulness, insight-oriented approaches, and storytelling in my sessions, depending on an individual’s uniqueness.
Do you notice that you get tired easily and lack of energy without medical reasons? Do you feel sad, hopeless, worthless, and empty? Do you have sleep disturbance, either insomnia or sleeping too much? Do you experience frequent anxiety, agitation, and/or restlessness? Do you sometimes react adversely to a trigger that reminds you of past traumatic experiences, either consciously or unconsciously? I believe that your motivation is key to success and that all motivation must start with a destination, chosen by you. I see myself just as a facilitator, guiding you toward that destination.
(540) 679-7469 View (540) 679-7469

See more therapy options for Farmville

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.