Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Counselling in North West London, London

Photo of Mahen Jhugroo, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Mahen Jhugroo
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I have also received further specialist training in EMDR and Schema Therapy and more recently, in mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a Senior Chartered Clinical Psychologist with experience working in the NHS and the Health Service Executive for almost 15 years. I have completed my training at the Institute of Education, University of London and the National University Ireland, Galway and feels very privileged to have trained in centres of excellence where I have gained a wealth of experience. As an experienced clinician working across the lifespan in various settings with individuals experiencing a range of psychological and emotional difficulties, I provide an integrative approach to my work, including working with adolescents and adults.
I have also received further specialist training in EMDR and Schema Therapy and more recently, in mindfulness-based approaches.
I am a Senior Chartered Clinical Psychologist with experience working in the NHS and the Health Service Executive for almost 15 years. I have completed my training at the Institute of Education, University of London and the National University Ireland, Galway and feels very privileged to have trained in centres of excellence where I have gained a wealth of experience. As an experienced clinician working across the lifespan in various settings with individuals experiencing a range of psychological and emotional difficulties, I provide an integrative approach to my work, including working with adolescents and adults.
020 8154 5430 View 020 8154 5430
Photo of Sanah Ahsan, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Sanah Ahsan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Some of these include: Systemic, Narrative, Psychotherapy, Embodiment, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The reasons we seek therapy, can be much like our humanness messy and complicated. The therapeutic relationship sits at the heart of my practice, as a place where deep transformation can occur. I have over thirteen years of mental health experience, working with adults, young people, families and couples experiencing a range of difficulties including trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, and a diverse range of diagnoses. I offer short or long term therapy with all types of people. I also have specialties in working with those experiencing oppression (e.g. LGBTQIA+, POC).
Some of these include: Systemic, Narrative, Psychotherapy, Embodiment, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The reasons we seek therapy, can be much like our humanness messy and complicated. The therapeutic relationship sits at the heart of my practice, as a place where deep transformation can occur. I have over thirteen years of mental health experience, working with adults, young people, families and couples experiencing a range of difficulties including trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, stress, relationship difficulties, grief, and a diverse range of diagnoses. I offer short or long term therapy with all types of people. I also have specialties in working with those experiencing oppression (e.g. LGBTQIA+, POC).
01707 241499 View 01707 241499
Photo of Moya Jeanette Layton - theultimatetherapist, Psychotherapist, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
theultimatetherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, PNCPS Acc.
North West London, London NW2
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), recognised as particularly successful for PTSD and trauma issues and hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques.
Anxiety and panic issues, OCD, PTSD, Trauma. I also deal with food Issues and weight loss and use Clinical hypnotherapy pioneered by Professor Whorwell for IBS
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), recognised as particularly successful for PTSD and trauma issues and hypnotherapy and mindfulness techniques.
Anxiety and panic issues, OCD, PTSD, Trauma. I also deal with food Issues and weight loss and use Clinical hypnotherapy pioneered by Professor Whorwell for IBS
020 4538 7738 View 020 4538 7738
Photo of Tracy Mortensen, Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
Tracy Mortensen
Counsellor, UKCP Trainee
North West London, London NW10
I offer Core Process Psychotherapy, which is a mindfulness-based, embodied and relational approach to psychotherapy.
Throughout life, there will be times when we are unable to make sense of our own experience. The space created in psychotherapy can bring a renewed sense of health, confidence and connection to our often complex lives. My intention is to create a compassionate, warm space through which we can work together exploring your experience and some of life's biggest questions that may arise. A place for you to be fully received, exactly as you are. Whatever brings you to this moment, whether you are navigating specific difficulties, facing a general sense of unease, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to support you.
I offer Core Process Psychotherapy, which is a mindfulness-based, embodied and relational approach to psychotherapy.
Throughout life, there will be times when we are unable to make sense of our own experience. The space created in psychotherapy can bring a renewed sense of health, confidence and connection to our often complex lives. My intention is to create a compassionate, warm space through which we can work together exploring your experience and some of life's biggest questions that may arise. A place for you to be fully received, exactly as you are. Whatever brings you to this moment, whether you are navigating specific difficulties, facing a general sense of unease, or seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to support you.
020 3657 3992 View 020 3657 3992
Photo of Dr Maria A. Padilla, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Maria A. Padilla
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
North West London, London NW8
The theoretical framework that informs my practice is integrative, including CBT, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, Person-Centered, and Third wave approaches: Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Compassion Focus Therapy (CFT).
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and a registered Psychologist with the Health and Care professions Council (HCPC). Over the last decade, I have gained extensive clinical experience whilst working with children, adults, couples, families and groups in the NHS, charity, private sectors and through my own private practice. Due to the unforeseen circumstances, currently I am offering only Skype, Zoom and telephone sessions.
The theoretical framework that informs my practice is integrative, including CBT, Psychodynamic, Psychoanalytic, Person-Centered, and Third wave approaches: Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Compassion Focus Therapy (CFT).
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with the British Psychological Society (BPS) and a registered Psychologist with the Health and Care professions Council (HCPC). Over the last decade, I have gained extensive clinical experience whilst working with children, adults, couples, families and groups in the NHS, charity, private sectors and through my own private practice. Due to the unforeseen circumstances, currently I am offering only Skype, Zoom and telephone sessions.
020 4538 0605 View 020 4538 0605
Photo of Ksenija Kadic, Psychologist, PsychD, FMBPsS
Ksenija Kadic
Psychologist, PsychD, FMBPsS
Online Only
Using creative tools and mindfulness techniques, I guide you toward deeper self-awareness and transformation.
As a Transformational & ADHD Coach, I help individuals find focus, direction, and flow. I guide you in unlocking your strengths, embracing your uniqueness, and transforming your mindset. Whether diagnosed or not, I help you understand ADHD and mental health, find balance, and improve relationships with colleagues and loved ones. Together, we’ll get unstuck, work on career goals, better home organization, and show you that you can do what you love and thrive in multiple roles. Let’s create lasting change aligned with your true self.
Using creative tools and mindfulness techniques, I guide you toward deeper self-awareness and transformation.
As a Transformational & ADHD Coach, I help individuals find focus, direction, and flow. I guide you in unlocking your strengths, embracing your uniqueness, and transforming your mindset. Whether diagnosed or not, I help you understand ADHD and mental health, find balance, and improve relationships with colleagues and loved ones. Together, we’ll get unstuck, work on career goals, better home organization, and show you that you can do what you love and thrive in multiple roles. Let’s create lasting change aligned with your true self.
020 7046 0482 View 020 7046 0482
Photo of Marta Benko, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Marta Benko
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
2 Endorsed
North West London, London NW3
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
Additionally trained in different therapeutic approaches like CBT, ACT, CFT, mindfulness, play and creative arts therapy, filial therapy, narrative approaches.
Supporting kids, YP, parents and adults with: mental health difficulties in the context of a physical illness (especially with endometriosis, asthma, CF, oncology, haematology, gastroenterology, dermatology, neurosurgery, and surgery), health anxiety, functional presentation/ medically unexplained symptom, relationship breakdown and divorce, children and young people, school avoidance/school anxiety, ex-pats and 3rd country children, mood difficulties (anxiety, panic attacks, fear and phobias, low mood) , stress , OCD, body repetitive behaviours (hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting) , sleep, non-underweight eating disorders.
020 8016 3516 View 020 8016 3516
Photo of Alexandra-Denis Iordache - Denise Iordache - JoySpace Therapy, MA
Denise Iordache - JoySpace Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
In my practice I use evidence-based hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and various practical ACT and CBT strategies.
I bring 18+ years of corporate work experience into my private therapy practice, helping corporate women overcome insomnia, anxiety, stress related concerns (e.g. overwhelm or burnout) and empowering them to achieve the change they want. I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist and Senior Member of the ACCPH.
In my practice I use evidence-based hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and various practical ACT and CBT strategies.
I bring 18+ years of corporate work experience into my private therapy practice, helping corporate women overcome insomnia, anxiety, stress related concerns (e.g. overwhelm or burnout) and empowering them to achieve the change they want. I am an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapist and Senior Member of the ACCPH.
020 4572 5985 View 020 4572 5985
Photo of Lorna Devine, Counsellor, MSc, MBABCP
Lorna Devine
Counsellor, MSc, MBABCP
North West London, London NW8
Mindfulness Practitioner.
Hi, I’m Lorna, a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist for high achieving professionals and business owners. Prior to working in private practice, I worked in various sectors for over 12 years including the National Health Service (NHS), independent, charitable, education (state and independent schools) and research sectors as a Psychologist and CBT Therapist. I specialise in supporting my private CBT clients to manage stress and high-functioning anxiety - the kind of anxiety that no one really notices because on the outside, you look like you ‘have it all together’. However, the way you feel on the inside is often very different.
Mindfulness Practitioner.
Hi, I’m Lorna, a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist for high achieving professionals and business owners. Prior to working in private practice, I worked in various sectors for over 12 years including the National Health Service (NHS), independent, charitable, education (state and independent schools) and research sectors as a Psychologist and CBT Therapist. I specialise in supporting my private CBT clients to manage stress and high-functioning anxiety - the kind of anxiety that no one really notices because on the outside, you look like you ‘have it all together’. However, the way you feel on the inside is often very different.
020 3389 7943 View 020 3389 7943
Photo of Monica Mendes, Counsellor, MBACP
Monica Mendes
Counsellor, MBACP
North West London, London NW5
My core approach is humanistic with elements of solution-focused and mindfulness techniques to help you apply the insights received through counselling into your daily life.
Concerns I regularly work with are: low moods & depression, anxiety & panic attacks, workplace difficulties, early childhood experiences, sexuality & sexual identity, bereavement & loss, relationship break-down, inter-personal relationship difficulties, anger issues, domestic violence & abuse, low self-esteem & confidence and lack of motivation.
My core approach is humanistic with elements of solution-focused and mindfulness techniques to help you apply the insights received through counselling into your daily life.
Concerns I regularly work with are: low moods & depression, anxiety & panic attacks, workplace difficulties, early childhood experiences, sexuality & sexual identity, bereavement & loss, relationship break-down, inter-personal relationship difficulties, anger issues, domestic violence & abuse, low self-esteem & confidence and lack of motivation.
020 4572 1173 View 020 4572 1173
Photo of Celestia Spong, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Celestia Spong
Psychotherapist, MBACP
North West London, London NW3
I predominantly use a combination of the following psychotherapeutic modalities: Internal family systems (IFS), Mindfulness based approaches, Gestalt Psychotherapy, & Somatic therapy.
I can help you discover & awaken your inner strength & wisdom, develop more self awareness, live mindfully, change adverse patterns that persistently arise in relationships, work through deep fears & limited belief systems, build self compassion, develop greater coping skills/ self-regulation techniques & lifelong strategies for transformation & true healing
I predominantly use a combination of the following psychotherapeutic modalities: Internal family systems (IFS), Mindfulness based approaches, Gestalt Psychotherapy, & Somatic therapy.
I can help you discover & awaken your inner strength & wisdom, develop more self awareness, live mindfully, change adverse patterns that persistently arise in relationships, work through deep fears & limited belief systems, build self compassion, develop greater coping skills/ self-regulation techniques & lifelong strategies for transformation & true healing
020 3872 2709 View 020 3872 2709
Photo of Wendy Sage, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Wendy Sage
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
North West London, London NW8
Relationship Counsellor BACP, MNCS, ICF, PCC, EMDR Certified, Mindfulness Educator & trained in Positive Psychology
I offer a safe, confidential & non judgemental environment in which to explore & discuss personal & professional concerns, recognise & develop your own resilience & open up to possibilities & opportunities individually or together as a couple. Relationships are difficult, counselling can help you to better understand yourself & others, to manage stress, to expand limiting beliefs & goals & to cultivate new pathways to build skilful communication. We work towards strengthening your ability to face challenges, create self awareness & best potential to bring results for caring and compassionate relationships for yourself & others.
Relationship Counsellor BACP, MNCS, ICF, PCC, EMDR Certified, Mindfulness Educator & trained in Positive Psychology
I offer a safe, confidential & non judgemental environment in which to explore & discuss personal & professional concerns, recognise & develop your own resilience & open up to possibilities & opportunities individually or together as a couple. Relationships are difficult, counselling can help you to better understand yourself & others, to manage stress, to expand limiting beliefs & goals & to cultivate new pathways to build skilful communication. We work towards strengthening your ability to face challenges, create self awareness & best potential to bring results for caring and compassionate relationships for yourself & others.
020 3872 2463 View 020 3872 2463
Photo of Wayne M. Mertins-Brown, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Wayne M. Mertins-Brown
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
North West London, London NW6
I work with an integrative approach, including theoretical principles such as Relational, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Spiritual, Mindfulness, Gestalt, etc.
I specialise in matters of the heart relating to personal identity, difference and diversity, sexuality, phobias, bereavement, loss, mental and sexual abuse, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, issues of low self esteem, relationship issues and work-related anxiety, stress and/or depression.
I work with an integrative approach, including theoretical principles such as Relational, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, Spiritual, Mindfulness, Gestalt, etc.
I specialise in matters of the heart relating to personal identity, difference and diversity, sexuality, phobias, bereavement, loss, mental and sexual abuse, generalised anxiety disorder, depression, issues of low self esteem, relationship issues and work-related anxiety, stress and/or depression.
020 7046 0224 View 020 7046 0224
Photo of Helene Klein, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Helene Klein
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
North West London, London NW1
I practice from a psychodynamic core into which I integrate mindfulness and compassion-focused cognitive behavioural therapies.
I am a Counselling Psychologist and trained EMDR therapist, accredited by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), and registered with the British Psychological Society (BPS). I split my time working in private practice in northwest London and the NHS providing short- and long-term therapy to NHS employees affected by traumatic experiences as well as adults struggling with low mood and anxiety as a result of living with persistent physical health conditions, e.g. cancer. cardiac disease, persistent pain, and audio-vestibular conditions.
I practice from a psychodynamic core into which I integrate mindfulness and compassion-focused cognitive behavioural therapies.
I am a Counselling Psychologist and trained EMDR therapist, accredited by the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC), and registered with the British Psychological Society (BPS). I split my time working in private practice in northwest London and the NHS providing short- and long-term therapy to NHS employees affected by traumatic experiences as well as adults struggling with low mood and anxiety as a result of living with persistent physical health conditions, e.g. cancer. cardiac disease, persistent pain, and audio-vestibular conditions.
020 3974 1546 View 020 3974 1546
Photo of Leela Faezeh Emadi, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Leela Faezeh Emadi
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
If you’re open to, we will work with breath, mindfulness, chakras, energy blocks and dreams too.
I have expertise in issues such as: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, neurodivergence including ADHD and Autism, bereavement and loss, eating disorders and negative thoughts/ behaviours, lack of motivations, etc.
If you’re open to, we will work with breath, mindfulness, chakras, energy blocks and dreams too.
I have expertise in issues such as: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, neurodivergence including ADHD and Autism, bereavement and loss, eating disorders and negative thoughts/ behaviours, lack of motivations, etc.
020 3856 7746 View 020 3856 7746
Photo of Dr Lara Zibarras, Psychologist, PhD, AFBPSsS
Dr Lara Zibarras
Psychologist, PhD, AFBPSsS
Online Only
Taking a client-led approach, I'll incorporate cognitive behaviour therapy, mindfulness, psycho-education, emotional freedom technique (tapping) and nutrition rehabilitation to support your healing at 3 levels: behaviours, mindset and emotions.
I'm Lara and I specialise in helping people with eating disorders, disordered eating and body image issues. Whether you have been struggling with emotional or binge eating, purging, restricting, or negative body image, we will work together to rebuild a positive relationship with you, food and your body. As your coach, I'll help you understand what is keeping you stuck in your relationship with food & body image, uncover your underlying patterns and create a personalised plan for recovery.
Taking a client-led approach, I'll incorporate cognitive behaviour therapy, mindfulness, psycho-education, emotional freedom technique (tapping) and nutrition rehabilitation to support your healing at 3 levels: behaviours, mindset and emotions.
I'm Lara and I specialise in helping people with eating disorders, disordered eating and body image issues. Whether you have been struggling with emotional or binge eating, purging, restricting, or negative body image, we will work together to rebuild a positive relationship with you, food and your body. As your coach, I'll help you understand what is keeping you stuck in your relationship with food & body image, uncover your underlying patterns and create a personalised plan for recovery.
020 3910 2853 View 020 3910 2853
Photo of Dr Rebecca Perna, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Rebecca Perna
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, but also frequently draw on Mindfulness, Schema Therapy, & ACT.
I am an experienced and qualified Counselling Psychologist, chartered with the British Psychological Society and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. I have a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from the University of East London. Since 2008 I have worked in various mental health settings. I have experience of working in the private sector, the National Health Service, and the charitable sector - working with adults, families, young people, and children.
I specialise in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) & Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, but also frequently draw on Mindfulness, Schema Therapy, & ACT.
I am an experienced and qualified Counselling Psychologist, chartered with the British Psychological Society and registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. I have a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology from the University of East London. Since 2008 I have worked in various mental health settings. I have experience of working in the private sector, the National Health Service, and the charitable sector - working with adults, families, young people, and children.
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Photo of Dr Harriette Parnes, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Harriette Parnes
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
North West London, London NW11
I have training in several approaches including cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focussed, mindfulness and brief solution focussed therapy.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and work with adults and children who are struggling to cope with different types of distress. This might be depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, OCD, addictions, bereavement, gender identity, trauma, relationship difficulties etc. I offer a free, initial 15min consultation call to see if you feel we are the right fit. If you decide to proceed then whatever difficulties you are having, we would begin with an assessment to learn more about what brings you to therapy, think collaboratively about your goals for treatment and formulate a plan for which approach might be most helpful.
I have training in several approaches including cognitive behavioural, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focussed, mindfulness and brief solution focussed therapy.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and work with adults and children who are struggling to cope with different types of distress. This might be depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, OCD, addictions, bereavement, gender identity, trauma, relationship difficulties etc. I offer a free, initial 15min consultation call to see if you feel we are the right fit. If you decide to proceed then whatever difficulties you are having, we would begin with an assessment to learn more about what brings you to therapy, think collaboratively about your goals for treatment and formulate a plan for which approach might be most helpful.
020 4538 0326 View 020 4538 0326
Photo of Anna Vargas, Counsellor, MBACP
Anna Vargas
Counsellor, MBACP
North West London, London NW1
By integrating dialogue, creative techniques, mindfulness, and poly-vagal exercises I help you explore how you perceive yourself and connect with your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
My approach is warm, empathic and honest and while I specialise in trauma work, I also have experience working with neurodiversity, cultural identity issues, grief and helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. A lot of the work I do is related to any type of relationship challenges, including abuse and co-dependency and work-related issues.
By integrating dialogue, creative techniques, mindfulness, and poly-vagal exercises I help you explore how you perceive yourself and connect with your thoughts, feelings and experiences.
My approach is warm, empathic and honest and while I specialise in trauma work, I also have experience working with neurodiversity, cultural identity issues, grief and helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. A lot of the work I do is related to any type of relationship challenges, including abuse and co-dependency and work-related issues.
020 4572 3897 View 020 4572 3897
Photo of Mandi Simons - Mandi Simons Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Mandi Simons Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice
Psychotherapist, MBACP
North West London, London NW3
We provide you with a safe, confidential space to speak freely about what is on your mind and ensure you are matched with the most appropriate counsellor and therapeutic approach, such as short-term CBT or Mindfulness for individuals, ( adults and chldren) couples & families.
Finding the Right Counsellor for You. Welcome to Mandi Simons Counselling and Psychotherapy. We are a team of experienced practitioners providing counselling which is tailored to your needs in Hampstead and online.Our team comprises of CBT, integrative therapists, hypnotherapists and life coaches specialising in many different areas, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement, addiction, neurodiversity and relationship issues, allowing us to provide tailored expert help for all kinds of issues. lthough we are all experts in several different fields, we all share the same approach of working with clients in an empathic, individual way,
We provide you with a safe, confidential space to speak freely about what is on your mind and ensure you are matched with the most appropriate counsellor and therapeutic approach, such as short-term CBT or Mindfulness for individuals, ( adults and chldren) couples & families.
Finding the Right Counsellor for You. Welcome to Mandi Simons Counselling and Psychotherapy. We are a team of experienced practitioners providing counselling which is tailored to your needs in Hampstead and online.Our team comprises of CBT, integrative therapists, hypnotherapists and life coaches specialising in many different areas, such as depression, anxiety, bereavement, addiction, neurodiversity and relationship issues, allowing us to provide tailored expert help for all kinds of issues. lthough we are all experts in several different fields, we all share the same approach of working with clients in an empathic, individual way,
020 3872 2042 View 020 3872 2042

See more therapy options for North West London, London

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.