Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Bothell, WA

Photo of Kylani St. Clair, MA, LMHC, CCTP, RYT, Counselor
Kylani St. Clair
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP, RYT
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm hosting a one-time online mini-retreat for restoring caregiver resilience on 9/28 from 11am-1pm PST! See below to register! As a counselor, yoga teacher, and wellness coach, I recognize that you are the expert of your life and walk beside you to find answers and insight. I offer the following specialties: spiritual and cultural exploration, trauma healing, emotion regulation, career counseling, gender and sex identity exploration, stress and anxiety reduction, and mindfulness meditation, death planning and acceptance (among others!). I’m proud to work with clients from all cultural backgrounds, religions, and am LGBTQ-allied.
I'm hosting a one-time online mini-retreat for restoring caregiver resilience on 9/28 from 11am-1pm PST! See below to register! As a counselor, yoga teacher, and wellness coach, I recognize that you are the expert of your life and walk beside you to find answers and insight. I offer the following specialties: spiritual and cultural exploration, trauma healing, emotion regulation, career counseling, gender and sex identity exploration, stress and anxiety reduction, and mindfulness meditation, death planning and acceptance (among others!). I’m proud to work with clients from all cultural backgrounds, religions, and am LGBTQ-allied.
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Photo of Michelle Woodward, LCPC, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Michelle Woodward
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
I help individuals learn to accept themselves and others as they are, manage their emotions, and improve relationships. Acceptance allows for growth. I specialize in helping individuals resolve symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I believe we all have the capacity to heal given the right tools and environment. My work with clients is grounded in mindfulness based, cognitive behavioral theory. Counseling is provided in a private, comfortable, non-judgmental environment. Telehealth sessions are available at this time. Together, we will use your existing strengths to move you toward optimal health.
I help individuals learn to accept themselves and others as they are, manage their emotions, and improve relationships. Acceptance allows for growth. I specialize in helping individuals resolve symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. I believe we all have the capacity to heal given the right tools and environment. My work with clients is grounded in mindfulness based, cognitive behavioral theory. Counseling is provided in a private, comfortable, non-judgmental environment. Telehealth sessions are available at this time. Together, we will use your existing strengths to move you toward optimal health.
(509) 519-3089 View (509) 519-3089
Photo of Becky Robbins - Inner Phoenix Embodied Arts, PLLC, MA, LMHC, CEAT, CYT, Counselor
Inner Phoenix Embodied Arts, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CEAT, CYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
I lean toward spiritual, strength-based, nature-based/outdoor, mindfulness-based approaches, and expressive therapy modalities, alongside talk therapy.
You are ready to dive deep and explore the inner workings of your life in order to understand, heal, and thrive. You'll find my services particularly effective if you are going through transition (career/livelihood, relational, geographical, physical, gender, financial, and so on), wanting to explore traumatic experiences, seeking support for learning or acquired physical disabilities, you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, and parts of your life that feel out of control. You might also be seeking support through use of nature and mindfulness-based or somatic therapy modalities, dream exploration, and spirituality.
I lean toward spiritual, strength-based, nature-based/outdoor, mindfulness-based approaches, and expressive therapy modalities, alongside talk therapy.
You are ready to dive deep and explore the inner workings of your life in order to understand, heal, and thrive. You'll find my services particularly effective if you are going through transition (career/livelihood, relational, geographical, physical, gender, financial, and so on), wanting to explore traumatic experiences, seeking support for learning or acquired physical disabilities, you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, and parts of your life that feel out of control. You might also be seeking support through use of nature and mindfulness-based or somatic therapy modalities, dream exploration, and spirituality.
(425) 786-2726 View (425) 786-2726
Photo of Rebekah Hage, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Hage
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Lifespan Integration and the Gottman Method depending on client need.
Welcome! Making the choice to start therapy can be overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can help. Our sessions will take place via secure Telehealth or in person, depending on your needs. I have over 15 years of experience in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/loss, motherhood, postpartum depression/anxiety and adults navigating life transitions. I utilize holistic, relational and strengths-based approaches to work with you towards growth and healing. I work with adults and couples. I am LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent Affirming therapist.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Lifespan Integration and the Gottman Method depending on client need.
Welcome! Making the choice to start therapy can be overwhelming. Knowing what to expect can help. Our sessions will take place via secure Telehealth or in person, depending on your needs. I have over 15 years of experience in working with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, chronic illness, grief/loss, motherhood, postpartum depression/anxiety and adults navigating life transitions. I utilize holistic, relational and strengths-based approaches to work with you towards growth and healing. I work with adults and couples. I am LGBTQIA+ and Neurodivergent Affirming therapist.
(425) 215-0785 View (425) 215-0785
Photo of Kristin Nielsen, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Nielsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
I have received training in Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, mindfulness and tantric practices.
Every person, couple and family struggles from time to time. Sometimes, it is hard to get through these rough patches alone. Having a compassionate, supportive and inquisitive individual attending to your concerns provides a safe environment to create positive change. As a marriage and family therapist, I am able to partner with you in this therapeutic framework while exploring your interactions with significant others and society at large. If you are seeking help for your partnership, your family or an issue in your life, let's get started today.
I have received training in Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, mindfulness and tantric practices.
Every person, couple and family struggles from time to time. Sometimes, it is hard to get through these rough patches alone. Having a compassionate, supportive and inquisitive individual attending to your concerns provides a safe environment to create positive change. As a marriage and family therapist, I am able to partner with you in this therapeutic framework while exploring your interactions with significant others and society at large. If you are seeking help for your partnership, your family or an issue in your life, let's get started today.
(206) 429-6556 View (206) 429-6556
Photo of Christine Scoville, LMHCA, Counselor
Christine Scoville
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist and my focus is working with adolescents and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders). I also work with issues such as spiritual trauma and abuse, childhood emotional neglect and family systems. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, relational, and depth-based. I incorporate psychoanalytic depth work, existential psychotherapy, as well as somatic and mindfulness practices incorporating the body and strengthening a body-mind connection as it feels safe to do so.
I am a holistic, trauma-informed therapist and my focus is working with adolescents and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and neurodivergence (ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders). I also work with issues such as spiritual trauma and abuse, childhood emotional neglect and family systems. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, relational, and depth-based. I incorporate psychoanalytic depth work, existential psychotherapy, as well as somatic and mindfulness practices incorporating the body and strengthening a body-mind connection as it feels safe to do so.
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Photo of Caroline Wartman, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Caroline Wartman
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
I am a Trauma-Informed therapist, drawing on a number of modalities including Relational Psychodynamic, EMDR, Attachment Theory, Object Relations, Intersectionality, Existential, Systems Theory, Mindfulness, and Somatic Therapy.
An turas is Irish for the journey. It is an honor to join you on your path toward healing and wholeness, integration, and healthy relationships with yourself and others. There are many things that can bring us to counseling - stress and anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, experiences of trauma or loss, and a desire to live in more authentic and meaningful ways.
I am a Trauma-Informed therapist, drawing on a number of modalities including Relational Psychodynamic, EMDR, Attachment Theory, Object Relations, Intersectionality, Existential, Systems Theory, Mindfulness, and Somatic Therapy.
An turas is Irish for the journey. It is an honor to join you on your path toward healing and wholeness, integration, and healthy relationships with yourself and others. There are many things that can bring us to counseling - stress and anxiety, life transitions, relational challenges, experiences of trauma or loss, and a desire to live in more authentic and meaningful ways.
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Photo of Michelle A. Lechnyr, MA, LMFT, CDC®, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle A. Lechnyr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDC®
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98012  (Online Only)
My goal is to equip you with effective strategies for shifting your thought patterns, easing anxious thoughts, and overcoming depression. I specialize in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, divorce, infidelity, life transitions, and complex trauma. My therapeutic approach encompasses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and EMDR. As a certified divorce coach, I provide guidance to help you navigate relationship challenges and make informed decisions.Additionally, I offer support to individuals grappling with a cancer diagnosis. Gottman trained: Bringing Baby Home Educator.
My goal is to equip you with effective strategies for shifting your thought patterns, easing anxious thoughts, and overcoming depression. I specialize in addressing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, divorce, infidelity, life transitions, and complex trauma. My therapeutic approach encompasses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and EMDR. As a certified divorce coach, I provide guidance to help you navigate relationship challenges and make informed decisions.Additionally, I offer support to individuals grappling with a cancer diagnosis. Gottman trained: Bringing Baby Home Educator.
(206) 590-5505 View (206) 590-5505
Photo of Dr. Nancy Crowley, PsyD, LMHC
Dr. Nancy Crowley
Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021
I draw from Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Object Relations, and Psychodynamic processes.
For clients who are trying to break unhealthy cycles in their lives, I offer a place of safety, a place of acceptance, and a place where you can discover your strengths, embrace your weaknesses, find healing, and learn how to be brave again. You will earn the tools that will help you heal in your daily life. You can learn how to grieve, develop resilience, and begin to build a creative and healthy life.
I draw from Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Object Relations, and Psychodynamic processes.
For clients who are trying to break unhealthy cycles in their lives, I offer a place of safety, a place of acceptance, and a place where you can discover your strengths, embrace your weaknesses, find healing, and learn how to be brave again. You will earn the tools that will help you heal in your daily life. You can learn how to grieve, develop resilience, and begin to build a creative and healthy life.
(425) 491-1076 View (425) 491-1076
Photo of Pashience Stodola, MA , LMHCA, Counselor
Pashience Stodola
Counselor, MA , LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021
Waitlist for new clients
During our sessions, I may include variations on different evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, communication skills, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I work primarily with teens and adults with struggles associated with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Life Transitions, Attachment, navigating the struggles of being human in a difficult world, and more. Clients are experts in their own lives and therapy is a journey where we will travel together focusing on arriving at your destination. Together we will identify your strengths, further strengthen skills that work well, and identify adjustments to achieve your goals. Through our collaboration, you will develop skills and tools that you can use right away, as well as, in the future.
During our sessions, I may include variations on different evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, communication skills, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I work primarily with teens and adults with struggles associated with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, Life Transitions, Attachment, navigating the struggles of being human in a difficult world, and more. Clients are experts in their own lives and therapy is a journey where we will travel together focusing on arriving at your destination. Together we will identify your strengths, further strengthen skills that work well, and identify adjustments to achieve your goals. Through our collaboration, you will develop skills and tools that you can use right away, as well as, in the future.
(425) 842-1823 View (425) 842-1823
Photo of Olivia Anne Kapusuzoglu, MA, LMHCA, LPC, Counselor
Olivia Anne Kapusuzoglu
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Using a holistic and evidence-based combination of talk therapy, mindfulness, and somatic approaches, I help my clients connect to their inner peace and wisdom, no matter how chaotic their lives have become.
I help my clients come back from their trauma, move through their grief, calm their anxiety, and find their strength. My therapeutic style is compassionate and down-to-earth. I provide a safe space for adults and couples to be themselves, while gently challenging them to take ownership of their lives. I help my clients identify, process, and resolve core issues so that they can make real change. I help them get clear on who they are, where they've been, and where they are going.
Using a holistic and evidence-based combination of talk therapy, mindfulness, and somatic approaches, I help my clients connect to their inner peace and wisdom, no matter how chaotic their lives have become.
I help my clients come back from their trauma, move through their grief, calm their anxiety, and find their strength. My therapeutic style is compassionate and down-to-earth. I provide a safe space for adults and couples to be themselves, while gently challenging them to take ownership of their lives. I help my clients identify, process, and resolve core issues so that they can make real change. I help them get clear on who they are, where they've been, and where they are going.
(253) 265-5337 View (253) 265-5337
Photo of Danielle Agoh, LMHCA, Counselor
Danielle Agoh
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
As a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, I work with adolescents 16yrs + and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and shame. I also work with complex and intergenerational trauma. My practice is primarily drawn from Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, and Mindfulness.
As a holistic, trauma-informed therapist, I work with adolescents 16yrs + and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and shame. I also work with complex and intergenerational trauma. My practice is primarily drawn from Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, and Mindfulness.
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Photo of Michelle Mathew, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Mathew
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021
Are you struggling with mental illness, relationship issues, or difficult life transitions? Let’s work together to help you develop coping skills and navigate these issues. My therapeutic approach uses culturally-sensitive and evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered Therapy to help you access your inner strengths and define the future you want to have. I am also trained in the Gottman method and can help you develop constructive communication, create shared goals, and foster an environment of love and appreciation in your relationships
Are you struggling with mental illness, relationship issues, or difficult life transitions? Let’s work together to help you develop coping skills and navigate these issues. My therapeutic approach uses culturally-sensitive and evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered Therapy to help you access your inner strengths and define the future you want to have. I am also trained in the Gottman method and can help you develop constructive communication, create shared goals, and foster an environment of love and appreciation in your relationships
(509) 397-7771 View (509) 397-7771
Photo of Dr. Prama Chakravarti, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Dr. Prama Chakravarti
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based CBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are my primary therapeutic orientations.
I am currently accepting in person sessions in Greater Indianapolis area, for educational and intellectual giftedness testing. I do therapeutic work with children, adolescents and adults, managing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma response, or ADHD. I also help parents with implementing Behavior therapy strategies for emotional and behavioral struggles in children. I am accepting clients for Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) across all age groups including older adults. www.pramapsychology.com
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based CBT, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are my primary therapeutic orientations.
I am currently accepting in person sessions in Greater Indianapolis area, for educational and intellectual giftedness testing. I do therapeutic work with children, adolescents and adults, managing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma response, or ADHD. I also help parents with implementing Behavior therapy strategies for emotional and behavioral struggles in children. I am accepting clients for Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) across all age groups including older adults. www.pramapsychology.com
(317) 743-7695 View (317) 743-7695
Photo of Brie Chang, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brie Chang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98021  (Online Only)
My interventions have an emphasis on mindfulness, somatic embodiment, lived experience, authenticity, reclaiming power, and recognition of the human condition in all its complexity.
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
My interventions have an emphasis on mindfulness, somatic embodiment, lived experience, authenticity, reclaiming power, and recognition of the human condition in all its complexity.
My background in psychology, massage therapy, and social work is here to guide your mental health journey with a mind, body, and sociocultural lens. People with experiences, identities, and presentations that do not fit the status quo may find working with me a refreshing experience. While I serve all, I have a special interest serving the LGBTQAI+ community, specifically gender diverse individuals. My practice specializes in trauma recovery, mood disorders, Queer issues, attachment wounds, life transitions, spiritual narratives, and stress management.
(206) 307-0513 View (206) 307-0513
Photo of Brenda Joy, MACP, MBA, LMHC, Counselor
Brenda Joy
Counselor, MACP, MBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021  (Online Only)
EMDR, LI, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered therapy combine in my practice to provide complete therapeutic care.
Survivors of trauma, abuse, victimization, and people in recovery from cancer are people I am most adept at treating. I offer individual therapy and specialize in trauma recovery, empowering my clients to more satisfying and healthier lives.
EMDR, LI, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered therapy combine in my practice to provide complete therapeutic care.
Survivors of trauma, abuse, victimization, and people in recovery from cancer are people I am most adept at treating. I offer individual therapy and specialize in trauma recovery, empowering my clients to more satisfying and healthier lives.
(201) 428-6508 View (201) 428-6508
Photo of Catherine E Stafford, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine E Stafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Combining cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoeducation and mindfulness, I work to support children onto a pathway of success and off of the downward trajectory of behavioral diagnoses.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I support families experiencing challenging emotions and behaviors. With over 30 years across clinical settings, I have extensive experience with neurodivergent and anxious children. My goal is to empower children and parents, by supporting the creation of lasting, positive change, through a combination of 1:1 counseling and parent coaching. My therapeutic model is solution focused, Cognitive-Behavioral and short term, where possible, with parent coaching based in a foundation of the Nurtured Heart Approach philosophy and Collaborative Problem Solving.
Combining cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychoeducation and mindfulness, I work to support children onto a pathway of success and off of the downward trajectory of behavioral diagnoses.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I support families experiencing challenging emotions and behaviors. With over 30 years across clinical settings, I have extensive experience with neurodivergent and anxious children. My goal is to empower children and parents, by supporting the creation of lasting, positive change, through a combination of 1:1 counseling and parent coaching. My therapeutic model is solution focused, Cognitive-Behavioral and short term, where possible, with parent coaching based in a foundation of the Nurtured Heart Approach philosophy and Collaborative Problem Solving.
(425) 409-6063 View (425) 409-6063
Photo of Brian J Jaeger, MA, LMHCA, CRC, Counselor
Brian J Jaeger
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
These approaches may include mindfulness training, Motivational Interviewing, cognitive behavioral techniques, psychoeducation, and therapeutic journaling.
You have many questions and may seek therapy for understanding, making decisions, or to again feel. Are you wanting to feel relief from grief, the loss from an impactful life change? Do you feel stuck in a relationship? Have you wondered if a fulfilling life is possible? You are not alone in your feelings and wondering about how to adjust to these changes.
These approaches may include mindfulness training, Motivational Interviewing, cognitive behavioral techniques, psychoeducation, and therapeutic journaling.
You have many questions and may seek therapy for understanding, making decisions, or to again feel. Are you wanting to feel relief from grief, the loss from an impactful life change? Do you feel stuck in a relationship? Have you wondered if a fulfilling life is possible? You are not alone in your feelings and wondering about how to adjust to these changes.
(206) 759-5987 View (206) 759-5987
Photo of Dr. Savannah Bukant, ND, BCB
Dr. Savannah Bukant
ND, BCB
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
Now accepting new clients! If you're curious about whole-person healing through nervous system regulation, stress resiliency, and investigating root causes of symptoms, we may be a good fit. I'm Dr. Savannah, Naturopathic Physician & Mindbody Coach. I teach clients how to become self-healers through inquisitive body awareness, intuitive eating, trauma-sensitive mindfulness, and other modalities. I'm curious about what is getting in the way of your healing - physiological, environmental, relational, psychoemotional, spiritual, & even energetic factors. Together we dig deep to unravel what's in the way of your innate inner healer.
Now accepting new clients! If you're curious about whole-person healing through nervous system regulation, stress resiliency, and investigating root causes of symptoms, we may be a good fit. I'm Dr. Savannah, Naturopathic Physician & Mindbody Coach. I teach clients how to become self-healers through inquisitive body awareness, intuitive eating, trauma-sensitive mindfulness, and other modalities. I'm curious about what is getting in the way of your healing - physiological, environmental, relational, psychoemotional, spiritual, & even energetic factors. Together we dig deep to unravel what's in the way of your innate inner healer.
(425) 440-3219 View (425) 440-3219
Photo of Samar Ayyub, LCAISW, MEd, RYT-500, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samar Ayyub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAISW, MEd, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bothell, WA 98011
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
(206) 483-0592 View (206) 483-0592
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Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

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

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

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

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

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

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

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