Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Lopez Island, WA

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
Lopez Island, WA 98261  (Online Only)
These include among others: Relational Psychotherapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, EMDR, DBT, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, consultant and educator with almost 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, DBT, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, consultant and educator with almost 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
Photo of Peg LeBlanc, MA, LMFT, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peg LeBlanc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Lopez Island, WA 98261
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 Sheila Simpson-Creps, MA, LMHC, MFA, AT, Counselor
Sheila Simpson-Creps
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MFA, AT
Verified Verified
Lopez Island, WA 98261  (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 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)
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 Rose Carmen Blair, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Rose Carmen Blair
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lopez Island, WA 98261
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 want 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 from the cycle of trial and error. Together we can forge a better way and develop a path forward that truly resonates with you. You can know the benefits of having a smoother relationship with yourself that extends to those around you. You can begin to see your relationships in a new light.
The journey to the life you want 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 from the cycle of trial and error. Together we can forge a better way and develop a path forward that truly resonates with you. You can know the benefits of having a smoother relationship with yourself that extends to those around you. You can begin to see your relationships in a new light.
(509) 567-2504 View (509) 567-2504
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 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 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 John Johnson - Ancora Clinics with John Johnson & Auralee Jameson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ancora Clinics with John Johnson & Auralee Jameson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
I am licensed in Washington with 4 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 4 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) 549-8721 View (360) 549-8721

Online Therapists

Photo of Johannah Maybach, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Johannah Maybach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
I love using humor in sessions and use creativity and mindfulness in addressing concerns.
As a relational therapist, I understand the power that relationships have to profoundly shape our lives and that connection to both ourselves and others is vital. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool to disrupt the status quo. I am sex and pleasure positive, queer affirming, and enjoy supporting clients in exploration of gender and sexual identity.
I love using humor in sessions and use creativity and mindfulness in addressing concerns.
As a relational therapist, I understand the power that relationships have to profoundly shape our lives and that connection to both ourselves and others is vital. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool to disrupt the status quo. I am sex and pleasure positive, queer affirming, and enjoy supporting clients in exploration of gender and sexual identity.
(360) 657-9432 View (360) 657-9432
Photo of Lauralie A Huddleston - Natures Renewal Counseling, LMHC, Counselor
Natures Renewal Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98290
I offer you Gratitude therapy, Mindfulness, a Holistic approach, 40 years of experience & empathy, for your personal journey through this strange life.
In all stages of life, we undergo changes, transitions can be difficult. Lauralie can assist in smoothing out the anxieties or depression from loss with these changes. Working through grief, loss, divorce, or maturing through the stages of life you can find renewal of self. The anxiety is a fear of an unknown future, one can feel the fear and go forward as therapy will guide you through the uncertainty with your strengths and empowerment. Life was not meant to be a struggle with chronic pain, don't let pain stop your activities and pursuits.
I offer you Gratitude therapy, Mindfulness, a Holistic approach, 40 years of experience & empathy, for your personal journey through this strange life.
In all stages of life, we undergo changes, transitions can be difficult. Lauralie can assist in smoothing out the anxieties or depression from loss with these changes. Working through grief, loss, divorce, or maturing through the stages of life you can find renewal of self. The anxiety is a fear of an unknown future, one can feel the fear and go forward as therapy will guide you through the uncertainty with your strengths and empowerment. Life was not meant to be a struggle with chronic pain, don't let pain stop your activities and pursuits.
(425) 437-3266 View (425) 437-3266
Photo of Christie L Messina, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christie L Messina
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I also draw from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based therapy, and Interpersonal therapy.
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative one. My approach is to provide a safe, warm and respectful space for my clients to navigate through any challenges they are experiencing, or areas they would like to improve upon in their own personal journey. Many times these obstacles may hinder an individual from moving forward. My role is to assist them in this process to move towards living a more fulfilling and whole life.
I also draw from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based therapy, and Interpersonal therapy.
I see the therapeutic process as a collaborative one. My approach is to provide a safe, warm and respectful space for my clients to navigate through any challenges they are experiencing, or areas they would like to improve upon in their own personal journey. Many times these obstacles may hinder an individual from moving forward. My role is to assist them in this process to move towards living a more fulfilling and whole life.
(206) 855-6288 View (206) 855-6288
Photo of Lisa Brawn - Next Level Counseling, PLLC, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Next Level Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My work is based on an integrated approach based on Person Centered, Adlerian, Experiential, Systemic Family Therapy Models; in combination with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Sandtray, Game Play, & other Creative Play Therapy interventions; including those from Child Centered Play, Geek, AutPlay, & Child Parent Relationship Training Therapies.
I am Lisa Brawn, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist, with an interest in Geek Therapy. I hold a certification in Therapeutic Game Master from Geek Therapeutics. I am a Gamer & Geek friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Sex-Positive therapist. My focus is on helping my clients navigate their lives and relationships. Due to being strictly telehealth, I ONLY treat older teens/adults. Much of my work focuses on anxiety, depression, trauma & post trauma, relationship & family issues, parenting skills, school difficulties, teen/adult ADHD, life transition difficulties, behavioral issues, & self-acceptance.
My work is based on an integrated approach based on Person Centered, Adlerian, Experiential, Systemic Family Therapy Models; in combination with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Sandtray, Game Play, & other Creative Play Therapy interventions; including those from Child Centered Play, Geek, AutPlay, & Child Parent Relationship Training Therapies.
I am Lisa Brawn, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Registered Play Therapist, with an interest in Geek Therapy. I hold a certification in Therapeutic Game Master from Geek Therapeutics. I am a Gamer & Geek friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, Sex-Positive therapist. My focus is on helping my clients navigate their lives and relationships. Due to being strictly telehealth, I ONLY treat older teens/adults. Much of my work focuses on anxiety, depression, trauma & post trauma, relationship & family issues, parenting skills, school difficulties, teen/adult ADHD, life transition difficulties, behavioral issues, & self-acceptance.
(360) 226-8864 View (360) 226-8864
Photo of Rebekah Verdugo, LICSW, LCSW, SUDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Verdugo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I teach skills related to mindfulness, communication, boundaries, decision making and more.
I've guided and supported people of all ages and backgrounds through various struggles, including addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and trauma. I've helped them gain knowledge, different perspectives, and practical skills, which have boosted their self-confidence and allowed many of them to heal, feel comfortable in their own skin, live according to their values, and create a meaningful life.
I teach skills related to mindfulness, communication, boundaries, decision making and more.
I've guided and supported people of all ages and backgrounds through various struggles, including addiction, anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and trauma. I've helped them gain knowledge, different perspectives, and practical skills, which have boosted their self-confidence and allowed many of them to heal, feel comfortable in their own skin, live according to their values, and create a meaningful life.
(360) 318-7431 View (360) 318-7431
Photo of Bronwyn Wrobel, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bronwyn Wrobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. I teach you to Love & Accept yourself unconditionally. When you Trust yourself to handle whatever life presents you, you tap into limitless power. You begin to see how every life experience has value and growth potential. Your perspective shifts and life begins to work for you instead of against you. Check out my website for more information www.wizetherapy.com
(310) 905-8625 View (310) 905-8625
Photo of Mamuna N Fuad, MCRC, MSHM, LMHCA
Mamuna N Fuad
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MCRC, MSHM, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
With a foundation in Mindfulness, I integrate practices to help clients ground themselves in the present moment, fostering awareness & Acceptance.
Welcome to my space, where the intricate tapestry of human existence unfolds. I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through the labyrinth of their inner world, helping them navigate challenges, and unraveling the hidden meanings within. With empathy as my guiding light and a holistic approach to therapy, I am committed to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery and transformation. Together, we'll weave the threads of your life into a tapestry of resilience, wisdom, and authenticity.
With a foundation in Mindfulness, I integrate practices to help clients ground themselves in the present moment, fostering awareness & Acceptance.
Welcome to my space, where the intricate tapestry of human existence unfolds. I'm deeply passionate about guiding individuals through the labyrinth of their inner world, helping them navigate challenges, and unraveling the hidden meanings within. With empathy as my guiding light and a holistic approach to therapy, I am committed to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery and transformation. Together, we'll weave the threads of your life into a tapestry of resilience, wisdom, and authenticity.
(425) 357-7094 View (425) 357-7094
Photo of Nicole D Rank, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole D Rank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057  (Online Only)
Compassion, mindfulness, and healthy boundaries lead to successful life transitions.
We all experience anxiety, fear, depression or suffering - especially when faced with life transitions. Teens transitioning to adulthood, families transitioning through marriage/parenthood/divorce, and individuals transitioning through career changes are all common, but often stressful experiences. These transitions also have the potential to bring joy, reflection and peace. However, we all need help sometimes to find the joy in our lives. I particularly enjoy helping adolescents and young adults find their path through the world.
Compassion, mindfulness, and healthy boundaries lead to successful life transitions.
We all experience anxiety, fear, depression or suffering - especially when faced with life transitions. Teens transitioning to adulthood, families transitioning through marriage/parenthood/divorce, and individuals transitioning through career changes are all common, but often stressful experiences. These transitions also have the potential to bring joy, reflection and peace. However, we all need help sometimes to find the joy in our lives. I particularly enjoy helping adolescents and young adults find their path through the world.
(253) 215-8285 View (253) 215-8285
Photo of Sergio Flores, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Sergio Flores
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments, including CBT, ACT, CPT for PTSD, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and mindfulness-based therapies.
I am looking forward to meeting you! I obtained my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium program in Palo Alto, CA. I have over 14 years of experience providing therapy in a variety of settings that include the UCSF Alliance Health Project, Stanford University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, the Seattle VA Hospital, and my current private practice. I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan, from adolescents to older adults.
My primary focus is providing evidence-based or "known to work" treatments, including CBT, ACT, CPT for PTSD, Motivational Interviewing techniques, and mindfulness-based therapies.
I am looking forward to meeting you! I obtained my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the PGSP-Stanford PsyD Consortium program in Palo Alto, CA. I have over 14 years of experience providing therapy in a variety of settings that include the UCSF Alliance Health Project, Stanford University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, the Seattle VA Hospital, and my current private practice. I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan, from adolescents to older adults.
(206) 929-4632 View (206) 929-4632

See more therapy options for Lopez Island

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.