Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Friday Harbor, WA

Photo of Peg LeBlanc, MA, LMFT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peg LeBlanc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
If you need support to change a troubled relationship, a job or living situation, I can help you. If you have dreams or plans that you want help bringing about I can help with motivation and structure. People who can take action to seek help for difficulties feel better about themselves and move in the direction of greater happiness. I like to employ wisdom from many sources; Research based positive psychology, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices that restore emotional balance. I always seek to help you mobilize your own wisdom, sense of humor and courage.
If you need support to change a troubled relationship, a job or living situation, I can help you. If you have dreams or plans that you want help bringing about I can help with motivation and structure. People who can take action to seek help for difficulties feel better about themselves and move in the direction of greater happiness. I like to employ wisdom from many sources; Research based positive psychology, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices that restore emotional balance. I always seek to help you mobilize your own wisdom, sense of humor and courage.
(360) 226-7880 View (360) 226-7880
Photo of Sue Trace, BSN, PCC, CALC, CPQC
Sue Trace
BSN, PCC, CALC, CPQC
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250  (Online Only)
Are you stressed, burned out, exhausted, anxious, riddled with negative self-talk, feel like somedays you’re not good enough and living by your “shoulds?” I am a nurse, professional certified coach, certified ADHD coach and certified mental fitness coach. If you are a nurse, physician, frontline worker, individual or leader, I collaboratively partner with you to build your mental fitness, find renewed energy and increase your resilience and wellbeing. With my ADHD coach training, I work with anyone who has been diagnosed with ADHD, or think they may have it, who struggle with staying focused, organized, and are overwhelmed.
Are you stressed, burned out, exhausted, anxious, riddled with negative self-talk, feel like somedays you’re not good enough and living by your “shoulds?” I am a nurse, professional certified coach, certified ADHD coach and certified mental fitness coach. If you are a nurse, physician, frontline worker, individual or leader, I collaboratively partner with you to build your mental fitness, find renewed energy and increase your resilience and wellbeing. With my ADHD coach training, I work with anyone who has been diagnosed with ADHD, or think they may have it, who struggle with staying focused, organized, and are overwhelmed.
(360) 346-9820 View (360) 346-9820
Photo of John Johnson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
(360) 208-8653 View (360) 208-8653
Photo of Rose Carmen Blair, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Rose Carmen Blair
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
As humans we are beautifully flawed. We all go through periods of instability, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, shame, and excessive stress, colored by our own unique life experiences. Sometimes we can manage on our own, and sometimes we need help. Perhaps you are feeling a sense of disconnect that is difficult to describe. Do you desire a sense of connection, healing, and empowerment? I am here to listen deeply, offer you some new tools, and introduce fresh perspectives.
As humans we are beautifully flawed. We all go through periods of instability, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, shame, and excessive stress, colored by our own unique life experiences. Sometimes we can manage on our own, and sometimes we need help. Perhaps you are feeling a sense of disconnect that is difficult to describe. Do you desire a sense of connection, healing, and empowerment? I am here to listen deeply, offer you some new tools, and introduce fresh perspectives.
(360) 234-3262 View (360) 234-3262
Photo of Barbara Starr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Starr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Many individuals seek counseling with me because they have had painful or traumatic experiences that interfere with their ability to live a satisfying life, one filled with meaningful relationships, the ability to experience joy, and the ability to manage life problems skillfully. They often feel stuck and, although they've tried hard, they continue to experience problems in relationships and often suffer from anxiety, depression and the effects of trauma. They want to move forward in their lives with hope, confidence and a sense of purpose.
Many individuals seek counseling with me because they have had painful or traumatic experiences that interfere with their ability to live a satisfying life, one filled with meaningful relationships, the ability to experience joy, and the ability to manage life problems skillfully. They often feel stuck and, although they've tried hard, they continue to experience problems in relationships and often suffer from anxiety, depression and the effects of trauma. They want to move forward in their lives with hope, confidence and a sense of purpose.
(360) 622-6143 View (360) 622-6143
Photo of Anna Vaught - Griffin Bay Psychotherapy LLC, LICSW, NPT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Griffin Bay Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, NPT-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Friday Harbor, WA 98250  (Online Only)
Struggles lead to new growth. I welcome you to my private practice where I provide women with wise, kind, non judgmental counsel. Although life may fall apart, our identity may seem lost, or we spiral into self hatred because of things we are afraid to talk about, this is an opportunity for healing and evolution. Liberate yourself and discover self love, purpose, strength and wholeness here. I invite you to bring your feelings of guilt, shame, fear and self loathing and know that it is safe. I approach the messiness of being human with non judgement, authenticity, and sometimes a good dose of humor as needed.
Struggles lead to new growth. I welcome you to my private practice where I provide women with wise, kind, non judgmental counsel. Although life may fall apart, our identity may seem lost, or we spiral into self hatred because of things we are afraid to talk about, this is an opportunity for healing and evolution. Liberate yourself and discover self love, purpose, strength and wholeness here. I invite you to bring your feelings of guilt, shame, fear and self loathing and know that it is safe. I approach the messiness of being human with non judgement, authenticity, and sometimes a good dose of humor as needed.
(360) 300-5889 View (360) 300-5889
Photo of Sheila Simpson-Creps, MA, LMHC, MFA, AT, Counselor
Sheila Simpson-Creps
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MFA, AT
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
At times in our lives we may find that the pain of events is seemingly more than one can handle, and life questions are too great. During these passages, healing and stress reduction can be aided through a therapeutic alliance with a mental health counselor. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I listen to, and witness your story. I provide a safe and confidential environment to explore those issues which most challenge you. It is an honor for me to provide counseling services for those seeking healing and an increase in the quality of their lives. Currently, I work with adults via teletherapy only.
At times in our lives we may find that the pain of events is seemingly more than one can handle, and life questions are too great. During these passages, healing and stress reduction can be aided through a therapeutic alliance with a mental health counselor. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I listen to, and witness your story. I provide a safe and confidential environment to explore those issues which most challenge you. It is an honor for me to provide counseling services for those seeking healing and an increase in the quality of their lives. Currently, I work with adults via teletherapy only.
(360) 234-3589 View (360) 234-3589
Photo of Michell Brockman, LMHC, Counselor
Michell Brockman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friday Harbor, WA 98250  (Online Only)
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has ​neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
Hello, I’m so glad you found your way here. My name is Michell and I am a neurodivergent therapist that understands the struggles of living in a world that has ​neuronormative expectations. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, those in the LGBTQIA community, people in kink and BDSM communities and those in poly relationships. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I enjoy using EMDR, parts work and somatic body-focused therapies in our work together to help you find healing and empowerment. I do telehealth only and I am not networked with any insurance but I can offer you a superbill to give to your insurance.
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Photo of Maryann Syers - Maryann Syers, PhD, LLC, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryann Syers, PhD, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Not accepting new clients
These include among others: Relational Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 30 years in private practice. Because the therapeutic relationship provides the primary component for healing, I seek to develop with my clients a safe relational space in which to explore the issues that bring them to therapy. The relationship serves not only as the backdrop, but also the vehicle for understanding one's internal world and learning new ways of thinking relating with others. Much of what troubles us stems not only from current external circumstances, but more importantly, from how we have learned to think about and cope with our experiences.
These include among others: Relational Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 30 years in private practice. Because the therapeutic relationship provides the primary component for healing, I seek to develop with my clients a safe relational space in which to explore the issues that bring them to therapy. The relationship serves not only as the backdrop, but also the vehicle for understanding one's internal world and learning new ways of thinking relating with others. Much of what troubles us stems not only from current external circumstances, but more importantly, from how we have learned to think about and cope with our experiences.
(360) 763-0787 View (360) 763-0787

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Che Blaine, MS, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Che Blaine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lopez Island, WA 98261  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The intention I have is to explore with you your desire to have a more healthy balance in the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical aspects of your life. A central question that I keep in mind is: "how can I be helpful?" I encourage my clients to make overall goals for our counseling relationship as well as for each appointment. Your happiness and freedom is my goal. My hope is to create together an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. My focus is to encourage my clients' exploration of their own personal power, wisdom and resources for understanding, healing and happiness.
The intention I have is to explore with you your desire to have a more healthy balance in the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical aspects of your life. A central question that I keep in mind is: "how can I be helpful?" I encourage my clients to make overall goals for our counseling relationship as well as for each appointment. Your happiness and freedom is my goal. My hope is to create together an atmosphere of safety, respect and trust. My focus is to encourage my clients' exploration of their own personal power, wisdom and resources for understanding, healing and happiness.
(360) 842-0714 View (360) 842-0714
Photo of Danielle Trottier, MSW, LICSWA
Danielle Trottier
Social Worker Associate, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orcas, WA 98280  (Online Only)
The journey to the life you deserve is well within your reach, and you don't have to navigate it alone. You can move beyond the challenge of figuring it out the hard way and finally start seeing the meaningful results you desire. I’m here to offer a fresh perspective, to help you break free of constrains that don’t serve you. You can know the benefits of a smooth relationship with yourself that extends to those around you. You can be authentically you.
The journey to the life you deserve is well within your reach, and you don't have to navigate it alone. You can move beyond the challenge of figuring it out the hard way and finally start seeing the meaningful results you desire. I’m here to offer a fresh perspective, to help you break free of constrains that don’t serve you. You can know the benefits of a smooth relationship with yourself that extends to those around you. You can be authentically you.
(509) 567-2504 View (509) 567-2504

Online Therapists

Photo of Jenna Schmidt, BA, RYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jenna Schmidt
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
As a certified yoga teacher, I also have a background in breathwork and mindfulness techniques that can aid in the therapeutic process.
As your therapist, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe and supported on your path of healing and self-discovery. I believe that we each have a unique story and as humans we are capable of holding many conflicting truths. We can love our lives and still experience anxiety and overwhelm from the responsibility of it all. I am here to listen and collaborate, with empathy and without judgment. Together, we can explore how therapy can help you develop deeper understanding and self-compassion, address self-limitations like perfectionism and shame, and discover deeper meaning and purpose from life.
As a certified yoga teacher, I also have a background in breathwork and mindfulness techniques that can aid in the therapeutic process.
As your therapist, my goal is to create a space where you feel safe and supported on your path of healing and self-discovery. I believe that we each have a unique story and as humans we are capable of holding many conflicting truths. We can love our lives and still experience anxiety and overwhelm from the responsibility of it all. I am here to listen and collaborate, with empathy and without judgment. Together, we can explore how therapy can help you develop deeper understanding and self-compassion, address self-limitations like perfectionism and shame, and discover deeper meaning and purpose from life.
(425) 537-6290 View (425) 537-6290
Photo of Andrew Martin Knight, MAC, LMHCA, Counselor
Andrew Martin Knight
Counselor, MAC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
I can help clients when they are at a difficult moment dealing with complex life transitions and experiencing grief, anxiety, stress, and anger. I prefer to help clients with existential methods that invoke depth orientated psychological approaches from Jung, Gestalt, and stoicism. Clients that are able to receive homework assignments for mindfulness and reflect on the challenges they are having will be the best equipped to look at introspection and navigate their mood disturbances with assistance in the therapeutic relationship.
I can help clients when they are at a difficult moment dealing with complex life transitions and experiencing grief, anxiety, stress, and anger. I prefer to help clients with existential methods that invoke depth orientated psychological approaches from Jung, Gestalt, and stoicism. Clients that are able to receive homework assignments for mindfulness and reflect on the challenges they are having will be the best equipped to look at introspection and navigate their mood disturbances with assistance in the therapeutic relationship.
(253) 528-7350 View (253) 528-7350
Photo of Elissa Steffen Mount, LPC, LMHC, CH, LCMHC
Elissa Steffen Mount
Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CH, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with anxiety , depression, and trauma leaning on trauma focused care, cognitive behavioral, emdr, mindfulness, somatic healing, and solution-focused approaches.
We all have experiences in life that might result in minor cracks or in some cases, leave us feeling broken or disconnected from self, others, and the world around us. I believe that healing and wholeness can belong to all of us. If you are looking for someone to support you on your journey toward wellness and restoration, allow me to accompany you on the road that can often feel isolating when taken alone. The therapeutic relationship is paramount to me. I will meet you with compassion and empathy seeking to create a safe and encouraging space for you to make the changes in your life that you long to see.
I specialize in working with anxiety , depression, and trauma leaning on trauma focused care, cognitive behavioral, emdr, mindfulness, somatic healing, and solution-focused approaches.
We all have experiences in life that might result in minor cracks or in some cases, leave us feeling broken or disconnected from self, others, and the world around us. I believe that healing and wholeness can belong to all of us. If you are looking for someone to support you on your journey toward wellness and restoration, allow me to accompany you on the road that can often feel isolating when taken alone. The therapeutic relationship is paramount to me. I will meet you with compassion and empathy seeking to create a safe and encouraging space for you to make the changes in your life that you long to see.
(253) 499-8925 View (253) 499-8925
Photo of Lindsey Jones, MEd, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsey Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Hi there! My name is Lindsey (she/her) and I implement a holistic approach in therapy. I believe it’s important to meet my clients exactly where they are, while feeling heard and supported throughout challenges that may arise during sessions. Sessions with me typically look like taking a person-centered approach while guiding you in how to best support yourself through life transitions, relationships, etc. I incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and mind-body techniques to help with regulating the nervous system.
Hi there! My name is Lindsey (she/her) and I implement a holistic approach in therapy. I believe it’s important to meet my clients exactly where they are, while feeling heard and supported throughout challenges that may arise during sessions. Sessions with me typically look like taking a person-centered approach while guiding you in how to best support yourself through life transitions, relationships, etc. I incorporate mindfulness, breathwork, and mind-body techniques to help with regulating the nervous system.
(206) 222-3476 View (206) 222-3476
Photo of Chris Lott, LMHCA, Counselor
Chris Lott
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98134
I offer a creative and unique alternative to talk therapy through mindfulness based mind-body modalities, expressive arts and music.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
I offer a creative and unique alternative to talk therapy through mindfulness based mind-body modalities, expressive arts and music.
Something within you has led you here. Something yearning for understanding, change, or acceptance. Maybe you feel anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in holding patterns, tending old wounds or wondering "What's next?" Whatever is present for you, it is my honor to meet you where you are, as you are, with compassion and curiosity. My goal as a counselor is to create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for you to connect with your truth. All of us are already whole, and therapy is a way to return to that knowing. I'm inspired by my clients' wisdom and creativity as they explore the highs and lows of their experience and find a way forward.
(253) 802-8475 View (253) 802-8475
Photo of Niki Oliphant, LMHCA, Counselor
Niki Oliphant
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I utilize tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
Hi I'm Niki! I work with a wide variety of clients including those experiencing chronic illness, anxiety, disability, and mood disorders. My aim in counseling is to create a judgment free space where clients can feel comfortable being their authentic selves in all of their identities. I believe it’s important to meet clients exactly where they are, allowing them to feel heard and supported throughout life's challenges. I strive to create a safe space for emotional expression with clients as well as creating meaningful change in their lives.
I utilize tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
Hi I'm Niki! I work with a wide variety of clients including those experiencing chronic illness, anxiety, disability, and mood disorders. My aim in counseling is to create a judgment free space where clients can feel comfortable being their authentic selves in all of their identities. I believe it’s important to meet clients exactly where they are, allowing them to feel heard and supported throughout life's challenges. I strive to create a safe space for emotional expression with clients as well as creating meaningful change in their lives.
(509) 749-8796 View (509) 749-8796
Photo of Victoria Haddaway, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Haddaway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98229  (Online Only)
I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based interventions, mindfulness strategies, and the latest research in neuroscience to support you in meeting yourself with compassion and empathy so you may feel more securely attached to your present self.
My goal is to make you feel heard and understood. I meet you exactly where you are at, listen to you, challenge you, and support you in developing a connection with yourself and the world around you. The therapeutic relationship is an opportunity for you to feel validated, trusted, and above all, authentic and connected.  I want to support adults and couples in rebuilding a connection with themselves and to cultivate purpose and curiosity in one another. I help families establish open communication, trust, and create healthier boundaries in order to facilitate more enriched relationships moving forward.
I integrate psychodynamic and attachment based interventions, mindfulness strategies, and the latest research in neuroscience to support you in meeting yourself with compassion and empathy so you may feel more securely attached to your present self.
My goal is to make you feel heard and understood. I meet you exactly where you are at, listen to you, challenge you, and support you in developing a connection with yourself and the world around you. The therapeutic relationship is an opportunity for you to feel validated, trusted, and above all, authentic and connected.  I want to support adults and couples in rebuilding a connection with themselves and to cultivate purpose and curiosity in one another. I help families establish open communication, trust, and create healthier boundaries in order to facilitate more enriched relationships moving forward.
(360) 284-2188 View (360) 284-2188
Photo of Colin Ross Lindborg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colin Ross Lindborg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
Using mindfulness tools, body based (somatic) awareness practices, examining thought and behavioral patterns, transforming the stories we tell about ourselves and the world, and working on life-affirming goals, we will begin to bring increased awareness to challenging circumstances and to identify the personal strengths you use to meet challenges.
I accept most forms of insurance. Are you feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or have you simply found yourself wanting more from your life? People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, and this seeking is often the first brave step toward living into a sense of greater possibility and deeper relationships! I view therapy first and foremost as healing that arises from a conversation. That conversation can be transformative, can take many forms, and is an act of co-creation between you and me. Let's help you create the life you were meant to live!
Using mindfulness tools, body based (somatic) awareness practices, examining thought and behavioral patterns, transforming the stories we tell about ourselves and the world, and working on life-affirming goals, we will begin to bring increased awareness to challenging circumstances and to identify the personal strengths you use to meet challenges.
I accept most forms of insurance. Are you feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or have you simply found yourself wanting more from your life? People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, and this seeking is often the first brave step toward living into a sense of greater possibility and deeper relationships! I view therapy first and foremost as healing that arises from a conversation. That conversation can be transformative, can take many forms, and is an act of co-creation between you and me. Let's help you create the life you were meant to live!
(360) 614-2287 View (360) 614-2287
Photo of Cheryl Carter, MS, LMHC, CDP, Counselor
Cheryl Carter
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CDP
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98003
By learning to identify and change your negative thinking, you can achieve greater emotional regulation and positive feelings along while utilizing mindfulness skills for living more in the present rather than dwelling excessively in the past or future.
Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol addiction, marital and/or family conflict, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem issues or other mental health concerns? I will help you explore and achieve a deeper understanding of your current situation(s) to better cope and deal with them in a healthy way along with helping you gain a greater self-awareness and the strategies needed to foster and maintain these healthy changes. These strategies involve cognitive and mindfulness learning skills, in part, to change negative thinking and develop skills for living in the here and now.
By learning to identify and change your negative thinking, you can achieve greater emotional regulation and positive feelings along while utilizing mindfulness skills for living more in the present rather than dwelling excessively in the past or future.
Are you are experiencing depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol addiction, marital and/or family conflict, grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, self-esteem issues or other mental health concerns? I will help you explore and achieve a deeper understanding of your current situation(s) to better cope and deal with them in a healthy way along with helping you gain a greater self-awareness and the strategies needed to foster and maintain these healthy changes. These strategies involve cognitive and mindfulness learning skills, in part, to change negative thinking and develop skills for living in the here and now.
(206) 483-0727 View (206) 483-0727

See more therapy options for Friday Harbor

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.