Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Westlake, Seattle, WA

Photo of Marika Kyrimis, PhD, Psychologist
Marika Kyrimis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
My practice specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety (e.g., OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic, Phobias etc.) and related disorders (e.g., Insomnia, Picking, Pulling). I provide individual treatment for adults and late adolescents. My goal is to provide individualized, compassionate, effective, evidence-based treatment. My approach has its grounding in CBT but when appropriate I also use mindfulness techniques, components of Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to enhance the treatment and support the client's movement toward accomplishing treatment goals.
My practice specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety (e.g., OCD, Social Anxiety, Panic, Phobias etc.) and related disorders (e.g., Insomnia, Picking, Pulling). I provide individual treatment for adults and late adolescents. My goal is to provide individualized, compassionate, effective, evidence-based treatment. My approach has its grounding in CBT but when appropriate I also use mindfulness techniques, components of Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT), and Schema Therapy to enhance the treatment and support the client's movement toward accomplishing treatment goals.
(206) 207-4689 View (206) 207-4689
Photo of William Norton Dowd - Will Dowd Counseling Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Will Dowd Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
As a mindfulness teacher, I encourage clients to learn how to be present in their mind/bodies and observe experience without judgment.
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
As a mindfulness teacher, I encourage clients to learn how to be present in their mind/bodies and observe experience without judgment.
Hi, I'm Will. I'm glad you are here. Seeking help can be overwhelming when you are struggling just to get through the day. I hope to make the process a little easier for you. I have lots of experience working with all kinds of people suffering from depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, unwanted substance use, bipolar disorder, relationship issues and more. You want to feel better, to stop worrying about the future and rehashing the past, to move through what keeps you stuck in distress, to feel freedom, and some measure of peace. I am confident that therapy can help.
(206) 312-2326 View (206) 312-2326
Photo of Maite Andrea Imaz, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maite Andrea Imaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience & training in Mindfulness-Based Practices, Somatic Therapy and Expressive Art Therapy to integrate creative art modalities for embodied transformation.
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
I have extensive experience & training in Mindfulness-Based Practices, Somatic Therapy and Expressive Art Therapy to integrate creative art modalities for embodied transformation.
With genuine positive regard and a creative approach, my practice is committed to fostering awareness, healing and empowerment. The therapeutic relationship ultimately deepens the relationship with oneself and how we navigate challenges in the art of living. I facilitate with getting to the heart of the matter, gleaning meaningful insight, and building upon internal and external strengths. I have worked professionally for over 20 years, supporting a diverse population of hundreds of adults, youth, children, couples and families through and beyond, trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, life transitions and relationship difficulties.
(206) 207-8798 View (206) 207-8798
Photo of Jenny Wang, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Wang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
My approach includes mindfulness, self-compassion, and motivational interviewing, to build on existing strengths.
When you decide to work with me, I keep in mind that you are seeking therapy because of your intelligence, courage, and hard work to improve your life. You have thought a lot about your concerns already, and my job is to listen closely to build upon what has been helpful and consider new strategies. With your collaboration, we would work towards increasing your sense of internal calm and connection with others.
My approach includes mindfulness, self-compassion, and motivational interviewing, to build on existing strengths.
When you decide to work with me, I keep in mind that you are seeking therapy because of your intelligence, courage, and hard work to improve your life. You have thought a lot about your concerns already, and my job is to listen closely to build upon what has been helpful and consider new strategies. With your collaboration, we would work towards increasing your sense of internal calm and connection with others.
(206) 460-1667 View (206) 460-1667
Photo of Sean Orpen, MS, LMFT-S, CST-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Orpen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, CST-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
I work with a range of different issues, from sexual functioning and compatibility, to lifestyle, conflict management, and vulnerability from a mindfulness based approach.
As a therapist that works with couples and individuals, with a focus on intimacy and sexuality, I often work with people seeking deeper and more nourishing connections in their relationships and lives. Connection requires the courage to move into vulnerability and honesty to live one's truth about what they really need from their relationships. This is where I can help! I serve as a guide for individuals and couples in stepping into their own lives, to ask for what they need and to be present in and for their relationships.
I work with a range of different issues, from sexual functioning and compatibility, to lifestyle, conflict management, and vulnerability from a mindfulness based approach.
As a therapist that works with couples and individuals, with a focus on intimacy and sexuality, I often work with people seeking deeper and more nourishing connections in their relationships and lives. Connection requires the courage to move into vulnerability and honesty to live one's truth about what they really need from their relationships. This is where I can help! I serve as a guide for individuals and couples in stepping into their own lives, to ask for what they need and to be present in and for their relationships.
(360) 529-4728 View (360) 529-4728
Photo of B. Bartja Wachtel, MSW, LICSW, QCSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B. Bartja Wachtel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, QCSW, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
The approaches of Mindfulness, Compassion and Positive Psychology support the cultivation of relationship with the naturally occurring experiences of suffering.
Available: WED 01PM PT/10AM HST, THU 04PM PT/01PM HST. Please, first check the in-network insurance list below. Therapy works best when you're ready to consensually make therapy the priority. Suffering is a part of life and we work together to cultivate a relationship that helps you be with yourself with compassion. My experience is with people living with anxiety, depression, chronic illness (ALS, early on-set Dementias, MS, Parkinson's, TBI, Stroke, Cancer), end of life, caregiver burnout, finding meaning, depression/anxiety, non-dominant gender, romantic and sexual orientations, trauma, toxic masculinity and Sex-Positivity.
The approaches of Mindfulness, Compassion and Positive Psychology support the cultivation of relationship with the naturally occurring experiences of suffering.
Available: WED 01PM PT/10AM HST, THU 04PM PT/01PM HST. Please, first check the in-network insurance list below. Therapy works best when you're ready to consensually make therapy the priority. Suffering is a part of life and we work together to cultivate a relationship that helps you be with yourself with compassion. My experience is with people living with anxiety, depression, chronic illness (ALS, early on-set Dementias, MS, Parkinson's, TBI, Stroke, Cancer), end of life, caregiver burnout, finding meaning, depression/anxiety, non-dominant gender, romantic and sexual orientations, trauma, toxic masculinity and Sex-Positivity.
(206) 538-2935 View (206) 538-2935
Photo of D. Michael Louderback, MA, LMHC, Counselor
D. Michael Louderback
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
We are all alive and trying to learn something about living; we live the way that we feel. We do this automatically (and whether we know it or not) in relationship: in relating to our self and to others. Therefore, my philosophy is everything is emotional and relational and mindful; everything matters.
We are all alive and trying to learn something about living; we live the way that we feel. We do this automatically (and whether we know it or not) in relationship: in relating to our self and to others. Therefore, my philosophy is everything is emotional and relational and mindful; everything matters.
(206) 580-8338 View (206) 580-8338
Photo of Nathan Hale, PsyD, Psychologist
Nathan Hale
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Are you bothered by constant worry, fear, nervousness or anxiety? Feeling down, depressed, hopeless or like life is always going wrong? Having difficulty focusing or concentrating and feeling like you are always on the move? Is procrastinating or always putting things off until the last minute something you struggle with? These are all a part of being human, and there is nothing wrong with you. Let me help you better how to understand these thoughts, and feelings and drop the struggle against them. I can help you better understand how you can change behaviors and live a better life, even with these thoughts and feelings.
Are you bothered by constant worry, fear, nervousness or anxiety? Feeling down, depressed, hopeless or like life is always going wrong? Having difficulty focusing or concentrating and feeling like you are always on the move? Is procrastinating or always putting things off until the last minute something you struggle with? These are all a part of being human, and there is nothing wrong with you. Let me help you better how to understand these thoughts, and feelings and drop the struggle against them. I can help you better understand how you can change behaviors and live a better life, even with these thoughts and feelings.
(425) 386-2729 View (425) 386-2729
Photo of Amy Elizabeth Bloom - Amy Bloom LICSW, LICSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCBRT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Bloom LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CSAT, CMAT, CCBRT-C
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
I have been treating clients and couples for two decades. I specialized in bi-polar and other mood disorders before becoming a certified multiple addictions, sex addiction therapist and couple's counselor. I was certified by the International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals with Patrick Carnes in 2008. I treat those who suffer from mood, sexual addiction/compulsion issues, I treat spouses/partners who have betrayal trauma and help couples find their way back to each other. I am able to offer insight, compassion, levity and support. I do not treat sex offenders. I am not certified in sex offender treatment
(425) 600-1339 View (425) 600-1339
Photo of Tamara Harrison, MA, LMHC, CMHS, ADHDCSP, Counselor
Tamara Harrison
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CMHS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating OCD, phobias & panic, BFRB's (i.e.: skin-picking/hair-pulling) and ADHD. You were never meant to feel scared of your own mind, feel consumed by behaviors you hate, or be fearful of what today might bring. You want to be able to stop fighting so hard, but you don't know where to start. You want relief from fear & panic; you want freedom from obsessive thoughts & rumination; you want to feel at home in your own body & mind again. Your intrusive thoughts & urges rob you of your values & goals, making your life much smaller than it should be. With a safe space & a few good tools, relief is possible!
I specialize in treating OCD, phobias & panic, BFRB's (i.e.: skin-picking/hair-pulling) and ADHD. You were never meant to feel scared of your own mind, feel consumed by behaviors you hate, or be fearful of what today might bring. You want to be able to stop fighting so hard, but you don't know where to start. You want relief from fear & panic; you want freedom from obsessive thoughts & rumination; you want to feel at home in your own body & mind again. Your intrusive thoughts & urges rob you of your values & goals, making your life much smaller than it should be. With a safe space & a few good tools, relief is possible!
(360) 526-8824 View (360) 526-8824
Photo of Sarah Davis, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
My goal is to create a safe space where you can share openly about your story: your fears, worries, sadness, loss, and trauma as well as your joys, achievements, strengths, resourcefulness, and wisdom. You deserve to feel seen and heard without judgement. You have the capacity to change. Together, we will explore your story, using methods and skills appropriate to your personalized goals. I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, stress/burnout, secondary trauma, and life transitions (especially those in "Quarterlife").
My goal is to create a safe space where you can share openly about your story: your fears, worries, sadness, loss, and trauma as well as your joys, achievements, strengths, resourcefulness, and wisdom. You deserve to feel seen and heard without judgement. You have the capacity to change. Together, we will explore your story, using methods and skills appropriate to your personalized goals. I specialize in working with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, ADHD, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, stress/burnout, secondary trauma, and life transitions (especially those in "Quarterlife").
(206) 203-1846 View (206) 203-1846
Photo of Laura Merritt, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing chronic stress or the effects of trauma? With over 20 years of experience, I've helped folks just like you heal from mental health concerns like anxiety, mood disorders and trauma. Together, we'll work towards sustainable healing by getting to the root cause, cultivating a calm body and develop skills to handle triggers. We'll use approaches like EMDR, cognitive and somatic therapies, to create sustainable change. Specializing in Anxiety, PTSD and life after trauma, I create a safe place for building a strong therapeutic relationship an open space to explore your most vulnerable parts.
Are you experiencing chronic stress or the effects of trauma? With over 20 years of experience, I've helped folks just like you heal from mental health concerns like anxiety, mood disorders and trauma. Together, we'll work towards sustainable healing by getting to the root cause, cultivating a calm body and develop skills to handle triggers. We'll use approaches like EMDR, cognitive and somatic therapies, to create sustainable change. Specializing in Anxiety, PTSD and life after trauma, I create a safe place for building a strong therapeutic relationship an open space to explore your most vulnerable parts.
(425) 522-8229 View (425) 522-8229
Photo of Justin Pere, LMHC, CST, CGT, Counselor
Justin Pere
Counselor, LMHC, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98119
Since 2010, our team of therapists have helped thousands of couples and individuals, with our specialties being Relationship Counseling, Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Premarital, Sex Therapy, and Intimacy Counseling. If you are a couple, our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) describes how we can help you with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. If you're an individual looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression & anxiety, and you're wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within yourself, we could be a great fit. As the owner, I adore this group of therapists!
Since 2010, our team of therapists have helped thousands of couples and individuals, with our specialties being Relationship Counseling, Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Premarital, Sex Therapy, and Intimacy Counseling. If you are a couple, our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) describes how we can help you with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. If you're an individual looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression & anxiety, and you're wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within yourself, we could be a great fit. As the owner, I adore this group of therapists!
(206) 855-3934 View (206) 855-3934
Photo of Tammy Weitzman - Seattle Grief Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seattle Grief Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
Compassion and integrity are at the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone I work with. My focus is to create a comfortable and safe space. I am a therapist specializing in grief and bereavement. I have 18 years' experience working with individuals and their caregivers living with serious illness. . A recognized leader for more than 17 years in the field of oncology. I provide-grief therapy and facilitate grief support groups . Working with the bereaved and companioning them through their journey has been a long-time passion for many years
Compassion and integrity are at the core of my practice. I honor the unique path of everyone I work with. My focus is to create a comfortable and safe space. I am a therapist specializing in grief and bereavement. I have 18 years' experience working with individuals and their caregivers living with serious illness. . A recognized leader for more than 17 years in the field of oncology. I provide-grief therapy and facilitate grief support groups . Working with the bereaved and companioning them through their journey has been a long-time passion for many years
(206) 202-0823 View (206) 202-0823
Photo of Joseph A. Losi - Joseph Losi Certified EFT Therapist, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joseph Losi Certified EFT Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
As a fully certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, and a Level 2 EFT Individual Therapist Joseph's approach is rooted in Attachment Theory. Joseph assists his clients to become fully aware of unrecognized, unshared, connective primary emotions and reactive, disconnecting secondary emotions. He helps couples, men, and women cultivate greater awareness and acceptance of emotion. With empathic support he will help you develop the ability to communicate primary and secondary emotion in powerful ways that will foster increased intimacy with partners, spouses, and others.
As a fully certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist, and a Level 2 EFT Individual Therapist Joseph's approach is rooted in Attachment Theory. Joseph assists his clients to become fully aware of unrecognized, unshared, connective primary emotions and reactive, disconnecting secondary emotions. He helps couples, men, and women cultivate greater awareness and acceptance of emotion. With empathic support he will help you develop the ability to communicate primary and secondary emotion in powerful ways that will foster increased intimacy with partners, spouses, and others.
(253) 777-1620 View (253) 777-1620
Sandi Espiritu
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
I have extensive experience working with traumatic bereavement due to the death of someone to suicide, homicide, accident or any other sudden unexpected death as well as grief resulting from a wide array of losses. Additionally, people seek me out for assistance overcoming challenges arising from trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness and help navigating life transitions. I work with adult individuals experiencing a broad range of life challenges and with couples who have experienced a tragic loss.
I have extensive experience working with traumatic bereavement due to the death of someone to suicide, homicide, accident or any other sudden unexpected death as well as grief resulting from a wide array of losses. Additionally, people seek me out for assistance overcoming challenges arising from trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness and help navigating life transitions. I work with adult individuals experiencing a broad range of life challenges and with couples who have experienced a tragic loss.
(206) 818-2425 View (206) 818-2425
Photo of Megan N. Osterman, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan N. Osterman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109
I enjoy working with teens, couples, and individuals. I believe that connection is everything, whether it's connecting with yourself or connecting more with others. I am passionate about healing your inner child through gaining more understanding and acceptance for who you are. I work to change the narratives you hold within yourself to provide more relief from the current symptoms you are facing. I will create a safe space where you can be accepted for exactly who you are and remove any shame you are feeling. I know that life can be challenging, and I will give you the tools to grow into the best version of yourself.
I enjoy working with teens, couples, and individuals. I believe that connection is everything, whether it's connecting with yourself or connecting more with others. I am passionate about healing your inner child through gaining more understanding and acceptance for who you are. I work to change the narratives you hold within yourself to provide more relief from the current symptoms you are facing. I will create a safe space where you can be accepted for exactly who you are and remove any shame you are feeling. I know that life can be challenging, and I will give you the tools to grow into the best version of yourself.
(425) 380-4177 View (425) 380-4177
Photo of Jessica Bowen, MA, LMFT, ACHt, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Bowen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHt
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Grief can leave you feeling isolated, misunderstood, confused and wondering if what we are experiencing is “normal.” You may believe you are supposed to move on, get over it, or hurry up the grieving process. And yet, what you are experiencing, physically, emotionally, and mentally can leave you with little clarity on how to go forward. Our work together is about helping you process the complexities of your grief, to give you coping skills that honor what you've lost.
Grief can leave you feeling isolated, misunderstood, confused and wondering if what we are experiencing is “normal.” You may believe you are supposed to move on, get over it, or hurry up the grieving process. And yet, what you are experiencing, physically, emotionally, and mentally can leave you with little clarity on how to go forward. Our work together is about helping you process the complexities of your grief, to give you coping skills that honor what you've lost.
(206) 384-4549 View (206) 384-4549
Photo of Brandon Zahl, LMHC, Counselor
Brandon Zahl
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Your trauma deserves expert care. I combine EMDR and somatic therapy in unique ways to help you heal quickly and fully. My approach uses the innate abilities of the mind plus the body to build coping skills and to heal deep, hidden trauma. Right now, is feeling good about yourself and about your relationships a struggle? Are you spending most days being driven by fear or heavy with despair even though you try to stay positive? Maybe you're trapped in patterns you’re trying to break but they always seem to win. Its probably feeling like an exhausting battle with yourself and you don’t know if things will ever really get better.
Your trauma deserves expert care. I combine EMDR and somatic therapy in unique ways to help you heal quickly and fully. My approach uses the innate abilities of the mind plus the body to build coping skills and to heal deep, hidden trauma. Right now, is feeling good about yourself and about your relationships a struggle? Are you spending most days being driven by fear or heavy with despair even though you try to stay positive? Maybe you're trapped in patterns you’re trying to break but they always seem to win. Its probably feeling like an exhausting battle with yourself and you don’t know if things will ever really get better.
(425) 307-4501 View (425) 307-4501
Photo of Emily Laughlin - Emily Laughlin, Individual Therapy for Women, EMDR, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Emily Laughlin, Individual Therapy for Women, EMDR
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I help motivated women stop feeling, numb, anxious, and checked out so you can enjoy your life. You need to get a handle on your triggers, or your relationships will suffer. You don't want to react this way, but it's out of your control. There is trauma lurking at the surface and you’re ready to address it so you can feel more confident, calm, and energized. Are you finding yourself reactive, anxious, tired, and overwhelmed? You’re not alone and I can help.
I help motivated women stop feeling, numb, anxious, and checked out so you can enjoy your life. You need to get a handle on your triggers, or your relationships will suffer. You don't want to react this way, but it's out of your control. There is trauma lurking at the surface and you’re ready to address it so you can feel more confident, calm, and energized. Are you finding yourself reactive, anxious, tired, and overwhelmed? You’re not alone and I can help.
(509) 800-5490 View (509) 800-5490
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See more therapy options for Westlake, Seattle

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.