Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counselling in Exeter

Photo of Emil Fiederle, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Emil Fiederle
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
2 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
I’m currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapy.
I offer a warm, grounded, and non-judgemental space to explore what feels important. My approach is humanistic and integrative, meaning we can look at emotional, relational, or deeper personal themes. I also use mindfulness to support awareness of how you experience things in the moment, helping to uncover patterns and open the way for lasting change.
I’m currently completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Mindfulness-based Core Process Psychotherapy.
I offer a warm, grounded, and non-judgemental space to explore what feels important. My approach is humanistic and integrative, meaning we can look at emotional, relational, or deeper personal themes. I also use mindfulness to support awareness of how you experience things in the moment, helping to uncover patterns and open the way for lasting change.
01392 321048 View 01392 321048
Photo of Claire Annette Williams, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Claire Annette Williams
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX1
I offer talking and creative therapies such as CBT, Inner Child work, Art therapy, Mindfulness, etc.
I am a highly experienced accredited counsellor and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
I offer talking and creative therapies such as CBT, Inner Child work, Art therapy, Mindfulness, etc.
I am a highly experienced accredited counsellor and supervisor, based in Exeter, working with adults, young people and children. I work with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, bereavement and loss, and trauma. I offer a warm, safe, confidential and non-judgemental space for you to explore difficulties or problems from your past or present and look at how these maybe holding you back from living a more satisfying and fuller life. As a humanistic counsellor, I focus on building a respectful, caring and empathetic relationship with you and, through this, support you as you progress towards your goal.
01392 537143 View 01392 537143
Photo of Liz Benson, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Liz Benson
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
For all of us there are times when we need the support, understanding and guidance of others.  Knowing there is someone you can trust, that will listen and try their best to help using all their knowledge and experience can be a powerful and transformative experience. I am passionate about guiding people on their journey to recovery and a meaningful life. Throughout my career I have specialised in helping people with eating disorders, and have over 10 years experience in NHS ED services. I also offer treatment for body dysmorphic disorder, depression, PTSD and anxiety disorders such as OCD.
For all of us there are times when we need the support, understanding and guidance of others.  Knowing there is someone you can trust, that will listen and try their best to help using all their knowledge and experience can be a powerful and transformative experience. I am passionate about guiding people on their journey to recovery and a meaningful life. Throughout my career I have specialised in helping people with eating disorders, and have over 10 years experience in NHS ED services. I also offer treatment for body dysmorphic disorder, depression, PTSD and anxiety disorders such as OCD.
01392 321417 View 01392 321417
Photo of Cher Brothers, Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Cher Brothers
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Exeter EX2
Stuck in "survival mode"? I provide a specialist bridge between clinical healing and systemic advocacy for families and adults in Exeter. Whether you are neurodivergent or navigating a neurodiverse world, I use EMDR, talk therapy, and creative interventions to help you map your nervous system and move from burnout to regulated calm. I specialise in translating sensory distress into the robust language required for EHCP Section F. By identifying unique "fills" and "drains," I ensure school and home environments work for your family. Let’s build a roadmap that honours how you and those you love experience the world.
Stuck in "survival mode"? I provide a specialist bridge between clinical healing and systemic advocacy for families and adults in Exeter. Whether you are neurodivergent or navigating a neurodiverse world, I use EMDR, talk therapy, and creative interventions to help you map your nervous system and move from burnout to regulated calm. I specialise in translating sensory distress into the robust language required for EHCP Section F. By identifying unique "fills" and "drains," I ensure school and home environments work for your family. Let’s build a roadmap that honours how you and those you love experience the world.
01572 491259 View 01572 491259
Photo of Judith Bladel, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Judith Bladel
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
Hello, my name is Judith. It's important to find a counsellor or psychotherapist who is a good fit for you, so I will try to give you some idea of who I am and how I work, in this brief space. Sometimes life can be painful and difficult. You may feel overwhelmed, confused or stuck; perhaps you want some kind of change. I believe we are more than our thoughts and feelings; we have a soul. What our soul needs is not always clear to us and as a result we may struggle. If you feel there may be more to life, or you feel different, I can relate to that and support you in exploring how to create a life that is meaningful to you.
Hello, my name is Judith. It's important to find a counsellor or psychotherapist who is a good fit for you, so I will try to give you some idea of who I am and how I work, in this brief space. Sometimes life can be painful and difficult. You may feel overwhelmed, confused or stuck; perhaps you want some kind of change. I believe we are more than our thoughts and feelings; we have a soul. What our soul needs is not always clear to us and as a result we may struggle. If you feel there may be more to life, or you feel different, I can relate to that and support you in exploring how to create a life that is meaningful to you.
01392 542901 View 01392 542901
Photo of Rachael Walker, Counsellor, MBACP
Rachael Walker
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
Hello, I'm Rachael. I provide a safe, secure place, where you will be able to talk about your thoughts and feelings in confidence, without the fear of being judged. I know the thought of having counselling can be daunting, but I will help you to feel comfortable and relaxed. All my clients and their issues are extremely important to me, so there is no such thing as a client or an issue being ‘unimportant,’ or a problem being too ‘minor’. The sessions are all about you...
Hello, I'm Rachael. I provide a safe, secure place, where you will be able to talk about your thoughts and feelings in confidence, without the fear of being judged. I know the thought of having counselling can be daunting, but I will help you to feel comfortable and relaxed. All my clients and their issues are extremely important to me, so there is no such thing as a client or an issue being ‘unimportant,’ or a problem being too ‘minor’. The sessions are all about you...
01392 690516 View 01392 690516
Photo of Liz Spencer, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Liz Spencer
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Feeling stuck in the same patterns, even when you know better? Maybe it’s showing up in your relationships, self-doubt, or the way you shut down or overthink. Therapy with me is about really understanding your experience — not rushing to fix it. We’ll explore your patterns, what drives them, and what you actually need underneath. At your pace, without judgement, so change feels natural, not forced. If you’re ready to understand yourself more deeply, you’re welcome to reach out or book a session.
Feeling stuck in the same patterns, even when you know better? Maybe it’s showing up in your relationships, self-doubt, or the way you shut down or overthink. Therapy with me is about really understanding your experience — not rushing to fix it. We’ll explore your patterns, what drives them, and what you actually need underneath. At your pace, without judgement, so change feels natural, not forced. If you’re ready to understand yourself more deeply, you’re welcome to reach out or book a session.
01392 321474 View 01392 321474
Photo of Sarah Lane - Sarah Lane MBACP Counselling & Mindfulness, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
I also have a PGDip in mindfulness therapy, so I can bring in practices where they are likely to be beneficial.
I offer affordable integrative counselling, which helps with overcoming difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, poor self-esteem, bereavement and relationship issues. You may be lacking direction in your life at the moment, it may seem meaningless or you might feel low in confidence. Perhaps you are looking to find some clarity around what's important to you and to explore how you can bring more of this into your life? Or maybe you want to improve how you feel about yourself? Or perhaps you need a warm and compassionate space where you can fully feel your grief to be able to start to move forwards in life again?
I also have a PGDip in mindfulness therapy, so I can bring in practices where they are likely to be beneficial.
I offer affordable integrative counselling, which helps with overcoming difficulties such as low mood, anxiety, poor self-esteem, bereavement and relationship issues. You may be lacking direction in your life at the moment, it may seem meaningless or you might feel low in confidence. Perhaps you are looking to find some clarity around what's important to you and to explore how you can bring more of this into your life? Or maybe you want to improve how you feel about yourself? Or perhaps you need a warm and compassionate space where you can fully feel your grief to be able to start to move forwards in life again?
01392 531552 View 01392 531552
Photo of Sharon Teresa Cresswell, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Sharon Teresa Cresswell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Exeter EX1
Goals, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy to tailor sessions to your specific needs, addressing both the emotional and thought processes.
Hi Welcome. As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth. I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
 Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
Goals, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy to tailor sessions to your specific needs, addressing both the emotional and thought processes.
Hi Welcome. As a fully qualified and accredited Integrative Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (NCPS), I am dedicated to supporting clients through their life’s challenges. I offer a holistic approach to help you navigate difficult circumstances and find a way forward. Together, we'll work towards realistic goals that foster healing and growth. I offer tailored therapy to suit you.
 Approaches are Person-centred, CBT, gestalt, and mindfulness. I adapt our sessions to your unique needs. Whether Face-Face, video call phone. We can incorporate creative methods for a holistic healing experience, in a safe & supportive environment.
01392 542386 View 01392 542386
Photo of Laurie Cunningham, Counsellor, BACP
Laurie Cunningham
Counsellor, BACP
Exeter EX3
Are you at a point in your life where something needs to change? Perhaps you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from the person you used to be. You may be navigating a relationship change, loss, burnout, midlife, or simply sensing that the life you've built no longer feels aligned with who you are becoming. I offer a warm, compassionate space where we can make sense of what you're experiencing together. My approach is relational, trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on evidence-based therapeutic approaches while honouring the connection between mind, body and emotions.
Are you at a point in your life where something needs to change? Perhaps you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or disconnected from the person you used to be. You may be navigating a relationship change, loss, burnout, midlife, or simply sensing that the life you've built no longer feels aligned with who you are becoming. I offer a warm, compassionate space where we can make sense of what you're experiencing together. My approach is relational, trauma-informed and integrative, drawing on evidence-based therapeutic approaches while honouring the connection between mind, body and emotions.
01572 491471 View 01572 491471
Photo of Paula Bowen-Scott, Counsellor, MBACP
Paula Bowen-Scott
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
I work mainly with adults from all walks of life, all looking to find a more meaningful and fulfilling way of living. Whatever your issues are, together we will explore why you are feeling this way, and work towards change. We will look at what has led to your current issues and what it is you are looking for in order to create those changes. I have a lot of experience working not only face to face but also online and via phone. There is always a choice of a better way of feeling but we sometimes get stuck and unable to find a way forward alone. I can help you to untangle how you are feeling and clear the way for a new path.
01392 719726 View 01392 719726
Photo of Dr Matthew Perkins, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Matthew Perkins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want to lead? I’m Dr Matthew Perkins, a Clinical Psychologist offering 1:1 therapy to individuals seeking meaningful, lasting change. With over a decade of experience in the NHS, I currently serve as both a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and an Associate Clinical Director in Adult NHS Mental Health Services, alongside my private practice and expert witness work. I bring a depth of clinical expertise and a compassionate, values-based approach to therapy.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from the life you want to lead? I’m Dr Matthew Perkins, a Clinical Psychologist offering 1:1 therapy to individuals seeking meaningful, lasting change. With over a decade of experience in the NHS, I currently serve as both a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and an Associate Clinical Director in Adult NHS Mental Health Services, alongside my private practice and expert witness work. I bring a depth of clinical expertise and a compassionate, values-based approach to therapy.
01392 321771 View 01392 321771
Photo of Lau M Harp, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Lau M Harp
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX1
Waitlist for new clients
We can also explore the cycles of nature, a yogic approach to self care, and mindfulness if that feels right for you.
Since qualifying in 2016 my experience primarily consists of supporting people with: eating disorders, perinatal loss and trauma and LGBT+ related issues (including gender dysphoria, internalised homophobia or transphobia, family rejection, and the process of transitioning). My specialist interest is the treatment of eating disorders within the LGBT+ population. A common feature of therapy concerning all of the above is a compassionate approach to the management of anxiety, depression, stress, burnout and related issues. I currently offer 1-1 therapy both online and in person in Central Exeter for adults aged 18+.
We can also explore the cycles of nature, a yogic approach to self care, and mindfulness if that feels right for you.
Since qualifying in 2016 my experience primarily consists of supporting people with: eating disorders, perinatal loss and trauma and LGBT+ related issues (including gender dysphoria, internalised homophobia or transphobia, family rejection, and the process of transitioning). My specialist interest is the treatment of eating disorders within the LGBT+ population. A common feature of therapy concerning all of the above is a compassionate approach to the management of anxiety, depression, stress, burnout and related issues. I currently offer 1-1 therapy both online and in person in Central Exeter for adults aged 18+.
01392 542077 View 01392 542077
Photo of Jane Meares, Counsellor, MBACP
Jane Meares
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX1
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Do you find it hard to cope day to day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are can be liberating.
Do you put on a brave face but feel different on the inside? Perhaps empty and numb, or overwhelmed by emotions? Do you find it hard to cope day to day? I know how tough life can be at times and how lonely it feels when no one seems to understand. If you’re wondering when you’ll feel happy or hopeful again, or you’re worrying about the future and fearing the worst, or maybe you’re struggling with a big change and a sense of who you are; I’d like to help. Being able to talk freely to someone, without fear of judgement or shame, can be a huge relief. Feeling seen and truly heard, and accepted for who you are can be liberating.
01392 321316 View 01392 321316
Photo of Dr Rachel Willcox, Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Rachel Willcox
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
These may include Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness.
I offer weekly sessions aswell as intensives (longer EMDR sessions over several days). EMDR is an effective way of addressing Trauma and PTSD symptoms, overwhelming or difficult experiences we may have faced, and the resulting unhelpful behaviours or thinking. I also offer EMDR-informed coaching which can be an energising and creative way of working.
These may include Compassion Focussed Therapy (CFT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness.
I offer weekly sessions aswell as intensives (longer EMDR sessions over several days). EMDR is an effective way of addressing Trauma and PTSD symptoms, overwhelming or difficult experiences we may have faced, and the resulting unhelpful behaviours or thinking. I also offer EMDR-informed coaching which can be an energising and creative way of working.
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Photo of Charlotte Ferns, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Charlotte Ferns
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX6
I believe in the transformative power of being truly heard and reaching greater understanding, with someone who meets you with kindness. So whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I hope we will build a trusting relationship where you feel free to explore things openly together. I am pleased to offer walking and nature therapy - this is a usual psychotherapy session but outdoors in a natural setting.
I believe in the transformative power of being truly heard and reaching greater understanding, with someone who meets you with kindness. So whatever it is that brings you to therapy, I hope we will build a trusting relationship where you feel free to explore things openly together. I am pleased to offer walking and nature therapy - this is a usual psychotherapy session but outdoors in a natural setting.
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Photo of Paul Brennan, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Paul Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX2
I support clients dealing with all forms of grief, loss and change. This may be bereavement, loss of a job, relationship difficulties or endings. Or just feeling overwhelmed by life itself. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress or sadness. I also work with men struggling with change or understand their place. I support LGBTQ+ clients and those with sexuality concerns. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to unpack and explore your feelings and better understand what is going on. You may be feeling lost, anxious, uncertain or scared. That's understandable. Let's work together to find a way forward for you.
I support clients dealing with all forms of grief, loss and change. This may be bereavement, loss of a job, relationship difficulties or endings. Or just feeling overwhelmed by life itself. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress or sadness. I also work with men struggling with change or understand their place. I support LGBTQ+ clients and those with sexuality concerns. I offer a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space to unpack and explore your feelings and better understand what is going on. You may be feeling lost, anxious, uncertain or scared. That's understandable. Let's work together to find a way forward for you.
01572 491312 View 01572 491312
Photo of Annie Ford, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Annie Ford
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Exeter EX5
My integrative approach draws on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Mindfulness techniques, adapting to each client’s individual needs.
It takes courage to reach out for counselling, especially when life feels stuck or overwhelming. You may be looking for clarity in relationships or direction through difficult times. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can explore the changes you want to make and rebuild resilience. I work with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, and challenging health situations. As an experienced Counsellor and EMDR Therapist, I offer both short- and long-term therapy on Mondays and Fridays (9 am–7 pm) and Saturday mornings, available online or face to face.
My integrative approach draws on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Mindfulness techniques, adapting to each client’s individual needs.
It takes courage to reach out for counselling, especially when life feels stuck or overwhelming. You may be looking for clarity in relationships or direction through difficult times. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can explore the changes you want to make and rebuild resilience. I work with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, bereavement, low self-esteem, bullying, and challenging health situations. As an experienced Counsellor and EMDR Therapist, I offer both short- and long-term therapy on Mondays and Fridays (9 am–7 pm) and Saturday mornings, available online or face to face.
07584 336873 View 07584 336873
Photo of Rachel Anna Jones, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Rachel Anna Jones
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Exeter EX4
I use a broad range of therapeutic models, including systemic, IFS, ACT and mindfulness, to create a holistic and individualized approach for each client.
I am an experienced systemic psychotherapist and nurse. I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have an interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
I use a broad range of therapeutic models, including systemic, IFS, ACT and mindfulness, to create a holistic and individualized approach for each client.
I am an experienced systemic psychotherapist and nurse. I have worked with individuals, couples and families for over 14 years. I specialise in working with relationships, self-harm, mood difficulties, emotional dysregulation and eating and body image difficulties. Alongside working with families and couples, I have an interest in supporting clients who are neurodiverse, diagnosed or self-diagnosed, to live in an authentic and unmasked way that aligns with their values. I provide a compassionate and open space and embrace working in a neuro-affirming way to support you to feel empowered and heard.
01392 537185 View 01392 537185
Photo of Karen Wrack, Counsellor, MBACP
Karen Wrack
Counsellor, MBACP
Exeter EX4
I see therapy as a safe place to gently explore and make more sense of our lives; where we can gain insight, challenge our beliefs, process our experiences and find better ways of being. I believe we gain insight and develop a sense of ourselves through relationship. I have particular experience and skills in working with relationships, loss and grief, neurodiversity, issues from childhood, including sexual, physical and psychological abuse, neglect and attachment. I'm also experienced in working with couples/relationships, incl traditional & non-trad relationship structures and people who identify as heterosexual and/or queer.
I see therapy as a safe place to gently explore and make more sense of our lives; where we can gain insight, challenge our beliefs, process our experiences and find better ways of being. I believe we gain insight and develop a sense of ourselves through relationship. I have particular experience and skills in working with relationships, loss and grief, neurodiversity, issues from childhood, including sexual, physical and psychological abuse, neglect and attachment. I'm also experienced in working with couples/relationships, incl traditional & non-trad relationship structures and people who identify as heterosexual and/or queer.
01392 321518 View 01392 321518

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Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counsellors
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 behaviour 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 behaviours 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 behavioural habits.