Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in 91316

Photo of undefined - Sharen H Zadeh, LMFT, Inc , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharen H Zadeh, LMFT, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
My priority as a therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, trusting and nurturing environment so they feel heard, seen, understood and supported in their therapeutic journey. I am passionate about empowering individuals to be the best versions of themselves, reach their goals and live a rich, meaningful and fulfilling life. The modalities I employ are eclectic and depends on the needs of the client. I incorporate the principles of Positive Psychology and also utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness as my primary modalities.
My priority as a therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, trusting and nurturing environment so they feel heard, seen, understood and supported in their therapeutic journey. I am passionate about empowering individuals to be the best versions of themselves, reach their goals and live a rich, meaningful and fulfilling life. The modalities I employ are eclectic and depends on the needs of the client. I incorporate the principles of Positive Psychology and also utilize Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness as my primary modalities.
(818) 208-4662 View (818) 208-4662
Photo of Paula Miley, DSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Miley
Marriage & Family Therapist, DSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I'm a AF-EMDR practitioner, a trauma-informed yoga/mindfulness instructor, and a community resiliency trainer.
I proudly identify as a gender-fluid, mixed-race member of the LGBTQ+ community with a specialty in Race-based Stress/Trauma, Gender, and LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy. My work is rooted in liberation theory that challenges the systems of oppression and anti-blackness that harm us individually and collectively. In addition to my work with bodies of culture, we may work together to address many of the challenges folks in the LGBTQ+ community face, such as coming out, gender exploration/expansion, social & medical transitions, internalized shame/oppression, body dysphoria and addressing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD.
I'm a AF-EMDR practitioner, a trauma-informed yoga/mindfulness instructor, and a community resiliency trainer.
I proudly identify as a gender-fluid, mixed-race member of the LGBTQ+ community with a specialty in Race-based Stress/Trauma, Gender, and LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy. My work is rooted in liberation theory that challenges the systems of oppression and anti-blackness that harm us individually and collectively. In addition to my work with bodies of culture, we may work together to address many of the challenges folks in the LGBTQ+ community face, such as coming out, gender exploration/expansion, social & medical transitions, internalized shame/oppression, body dysphoria and addressing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD.
(747) 239-5295 View (747) 239-5295
Photo of Eugenia Buerklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eugenia Buerklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
Drawing upon my 20+ years as a life coach and intuitive healer, I integrate mindfulness, expressive arts, and somatic, transpersonal and psychodynamic therapeutic approaches.
Creating a safe, caring, non-judgmental environment in which to engage in a deep, authentic healing process is my intention. Anxiety, depression, and other painful issues, often have their roots in developmental wounding and/or trauma. I help you get to the causes of your pain and patterns that no longer serve you. Mindfulness and somatic resourcing allow you to experience relief (and rewire your brain) while safely navigating and processing the past. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationships, career, self-esteem, and auto-immune, pain and other somatic challenges. I offer individual, couples therapy, groups, workshops, and retreats.
Drawing upon my 20+ years as a life coach and intuitive healer, I integrate mindfulness, expressive arts, and somatic, transpersonal and psychodynamic therapeutic approaches.
Creating a safe, caring, non-judgmental environment in which to engage in a deep, authentic healing process is my intention. Anxiety, depression, and other painful issues, often have their roots in developmental wounding and/or trauma. I help you get to the causes of your pain and patterns that no longer serve you. Mindfulness and somatic resourcing allow you to experience relief (and rewire your brain) while safely navigating and processing the past. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, PTSD, relationships, career, self-esteem, and auto-immune, pain and other somatic challenges. I offer individual, couples therapy, groups, workshops, and retreats.
(818) 962-6352 View (818) 962-6352
Photo of undefined - Think Well Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Think Well Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
I also offer mindfulness and meditation, as well as Ketamine Assisted Therapy when indicated.
Welcome! I’m glad you stopped by. My name is Shabby Casey and I’m here to provide support wherever you are in your life. You have the answers to your life questions. I'm here to help ask the right questions, find patterns, and help you listen to your own intuition. My style is very laid back and organic, open and transparent. I offer you fresh eyes and a new perspective to help you see your blind spots and move forward from whatever is holding you back. I also support plant medicine and offer ketamine assisted therapy for people who are open to growing and healing through psychedelic treatments.
I also offer mindfulness and meditation, as well as Ketamine Assisted Therapy when indicated.
Welcome! I’m glad you stopped by. My name is Shabby Casey and I’m here to provide support wherever you are in your life. You have the answers to your life questions. I'm here to help ask the right questions, find patterns, and help you listen to your own intuition. My style is very laid back and organic, open and transparent. I offer you fresh eyes and a new perspective to help you see your blind spots and move forward from whatever is holding you back. I also support plant medicine and offer ketamine assisted therapy for people who are open to growing and healing through psychedelic treatments.
(323) 307-7951 View (323) 307-7951
Photo of Toni Parker, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toni Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing you with the knowledge, practices, new science, exercises and tools it takes to create and sustain connected, fun loving, thriving, personal and professional relationships. I also work with anxiety, depression, and I teach mindfulness and meditation to my clients when I feel it is appropriate.. I am also a certified Gottman Therapist and highly experienced in working with couples dealing with affairs, trauma, communication issues, sexuality and having the same discussion over and over that constantly leads to conflict.. I also work with couples trying to navigate parenting issues as well.
I am committed to providing you with the knowledge, practices, new science, exercises and tools it takes to create and sustain connected, fun loving, thriving, personal and professional relationships. I also work with anxiety, depression, and I teach mindfulness and meditation to my clients when I feel it is appropriate.. I am also a certified Gottman Therapist and highly experienced in working with couples dealing with affairs, trauma, communication issues, sexuality and having the same discussion over and over that constantly leads to conflict.. I also work with couples trying to navigate parenting issues as well.
(818) 860-7243 View (818) 860-7243
Photo of undefined - Anxiety & OCD Treatment of Los Angeles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety & OCD Treatment of Los Angeles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP, mindfulness, EMDR, and hypnosis.
My name is Ken Goodman and I am passionate about helping adults, teens, and children conquer their anxiety, OCD, fears, phobias, panic attacks, compulsions, worry, trauma, and depression. In my 30 plus years working with patients, I have been a part of the most amazing transformations. Check out the success stories at KenGoodmanTherapy.com as well as the free self-help audios, articles, webinars, and videos. Don't put off getting help. You can get better. There's no reason to suffer.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, ERP, mindfulness, EMDR, and hypnosis.
My name is Ken Goodman and I am passionate about helping adults, teens, and children conquer their anxiety, OCD, fears, phobias, panic attacks, compulsions, worry, trauma, and depression. In my 30 plus years working with patients, I have been a part of the most amazing transformations. Check out the success stories at KenGoodmanTherapy.com as well as the free self-help audios, articles, webinars, and videos. Don't put off getting help. You can get better. There's no reason to suffer.
(818) 835-5105 View (818) 835-5105
Photo of Joni Newhouse, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joni Newhouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I am an interactive therapist working with you in a supportive environment where you will experience new confidence, focus and motivation to meet life's changing demands. I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, couples and families helping you effectively communicate; to build on your inner strengths; seeking valuable insights; and gain clarity to face new challenges. This will create a shift in your thinking, and through this process create the capacity to change. As a Cognitive based and Family Systems therapist my therapeutic approach is with compassion and understanding. Additionally, I introduce Mindfulness in your daily life to help reduce anxiety and lessen depression.
I am an interactive therapist working with you in a supportive environment where you will experience new confidence, focus and motivation to meet life's changing demands. I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, couples and families helping you effectively communicate; to build on your inner strengths; seeking valuable insights; and gain clarity to face new challenges. This will create a shift in your thinking, and through this process create the capacity to change. As a Cognitive based and Family Systems therapist my therapeutic approach is with compassion and understanding. Additionally, I introduce Mindfulness in your daily life to help reduce anxiety and lessen depression.
(818) 999-5826 View (818) 999-5826
Photo of Claudia A Domnicz, MA, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia A Domnicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I use Mindfulness techniques and Guided Imagery.
I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of issues. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationship issues , women's issues, career issues, and life transitions. Treatment may be brief to address a current problem or long term to work through lifelong patterns and gain insight . My style is holistic including working together and assisting you in finding hope and resolution to your problem.I can help you develop communication skills with your partner or family members , improve self-esteem , cope with losses and strengthen relationships . I provide a non judgemental and supportive environment .
I use Mindfulness techniques and Guided Imagery.
I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of issues. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationship issues , women's issues, career issues, and life transitions. Treatment may be brief to address a current problem or long term to work through lifelong patterns and gain insight . My style is holistic including working together and assisting you in finding hope and resolution to your problem.I can help you develop communication skills with your partner or family members , improve self-esteem , cope with losses and strengthen relationships . I provide a non judgemental and supportive environment .
(818) 754-8270 View (818) 754-8270
Photo of Kristen Baird-Goldman, MA, LMFT, ATR, CCSP, CIMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristen Baird-Goldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CCSP, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Waitlist for new clients
It is a challenging and exhilarating task to undertake the journey to know oneself fully and to experience all parts of yourself. We each have a unique story and it is my privilege and honor to bear witness to yours. I provide individual, couples, adolescent/teen psychotherapy & art therapy services as well as Mindfulness and Neurofeedback to those who are trying to work through life's challenges. My specializations are in adult and adolescent ADHD, Gifted & Talented (Twice Exceptional), Anxiety, Postpartum Mood Disorders and Women's Issues. Free 30 min. phone consultation to determine if this is the right fit for you.
It is a challenging and exhilarating task to undertake the journey to know oneself fully and to experience all parts of yourself. We each have a unique story and it is my privilege and honor to bear witness to yours. I provide individual, couples, adolescent/teen psychotherapy & art therapy services as well as Mindfulness and Neurofeedback to those who are trying to work through life's challenges. My specializations are in adult and adolescent ADHD, Gifted & Talented (Twice Exceptional), Anxiety, Postpartum Mood Disorders and Women's Issues. Free 30 min. phone consultation to determine if this is the right fit for you.
(818) 273-1784 View (818) 273-1784
Photo of Diana Benjamin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Benjamin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I have over 25 years of experience treating individuals, couples, families and groups. I work with a wide spectrum of psychological issues including but not limited to relationship difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, addiction and grief. I have advanced training in couples counseling, eating disorders and mindfulness practices . My work is informed by family systems, cognitive behavioral and attachment theory.
I have over 25 years of experience treating individuals, couples, families and groups. I work with a wide spectrum of psychological issues including but not limited to relationship difficulties, mood and anxiety disorders, addiction and grief. I have advanced training in couples counseling, eating disorders and mindfulness practices . My work is informed by family systems, cognitive behavioral and attachment theory.
(747) 279-3037 View (747) 279-3037
Photo of Sandra Maness, LPCC
Sandra Maness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
(657) 837-3901 View (657) 837-3901
Photo of Sharona Pourmehr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharona Pourmehr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I have been trained in various evidence-based practices including trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and managing and adapting practices.
Everyone experiences moments of challenge and struggle at some point in their lifetime. The first step could be hard in asking for help, but take comfort in knowing a caring and supportive therapist will hold your hand through it. I provide my patients with a safe and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts and feelings. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal from past trauma and current situations to improve their quality of life and emotional wellbeing.
I have been trained in various evidence-based practices including trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing and managing and adapting practices.
Everyone experiences moments of challenge and struggle at some point in their lifetime. The first step could be hard in asking for help, but take comfort in knowing a caring and supportive therapist will hold your hand through it. I provide my patients with a safe and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts and feelings. I believe that every individual has the potential to heal from past trauma and current situations to improve their quality of life and emotional wellbeing.
(747) 279-4401 View (747) 279-4401
Photo of Dr. Rita de Cassia Silva, PhD, LCSW, PPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Rita de Cassia Silva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, PPS
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I use an integrative holistic approach and often incorporate deep breathing meditation and mindfulness in my sessions.
Do you wake up in the morning feeling empty, tired, and unmotivated? Are you struggling with issues related to your past, uncontrollable thoughts, anger, grief, communication, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you seeking a more loving, meaningful, and harmonious relationship with your partner and your loved ones but don't know how or what to do to improve it? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional.
I use an integrative holistic approach and often incorporate deep breathing meditation and mindfulness in my sessions.
Do you wake up in the morning feeling empty, tired, and unmotivated? Are you struggling with issues related to your past, uncontrollable thoughts, anger, grief, communication, anxiety, or major life changes? Are you seeking a more loving, meaningful, and harmonious relationship with your partner and your loved ones but don't know how or what to do to improve it? There comes a time when help is needed from a licensed professional.
(747) 223-6012 View (747) 223-6012
Photo of undefined - Makeda Abraham, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Makeda Abraham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91316  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My focus as a therapist is always on providing a safe , non-judgmental and collaborative environment for my client to be seen, heard and understood . I truly believe that self-knowledge and self-awareness are the most powerful gifts we can give ourselves. My practice intersects traditional clinical training as a licensed psychotherapist with mindfulness based interventions and a mind- body-spirit centered approach. I honor the unique path of each client I work with.
My focus as a therapist is always on providing a safe , non-judgmental and collaborative environment for my client to be seen, heard and understood . I truly believe that self-knowledge and self-awareness are the most powerful gifts we can give ourselves. My practice intersects traditional clinical training as a licensed psychotherapist with mindfulness based interventions and a mind- body-spirit centered approach. I honor the unique path of each client I work with.
(424) 414-0984 View (424) 414-0984
Photo of Fara Izadi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fara Izadi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
I use modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brain Spotting, and Trauma Resiliency Model to address the needs of my clients.
How able are you to manage stress and crisis as they strike? How wide is your window of tolerance? Would you like to learn some tools and techniques to assist you managing stressful events more effectively? Would you like to work on becoming a better version of yourself? Call me and let us find out how can I be of a help. I am a Trauma-Wise-Therapist and I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with individuals and groups focusing on different issues such as stress management, Distress Tolerance, emotional regulation,communication issues, and interpersonal relationships.
I use modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Brain Spotting, and Trauma Resiliency Model to address the needs of my clients.
How able are you to manage stress and crisis as they strike? How wide is your window of tolerance? Would you like to learn some tools and techniques to assist you managing stressful events more effectively? Would you like to work on becoming a better version of yourself? Call me and let us find out how can I be of a help. I am a Trauma-Wise-Therapist and I specialize in treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with individuals and groups focusing on different issues such as stress management, Distress Tolerance, emotional regulation,communication issues, and interpersonal relationships.
(916) 866-8244 View (916) 866-8244
Photo of Nunilo Cambel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nunilo Cambel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Techniques and interventions I use include cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness, narrative, and expressive arts.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in your life? Are you dealing with relationship issues or challenges at home, school, or work? My name is Nuni, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience helping people who are experiencing issues like depression, anxiety, and stress. My foundation is Client-centered, which means that I believe that clients and therapists are equal partners in the therapeutic process.
Techniques and interventions I use include cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness, narrative, and expressive arts.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in your life? Are you dealing with relationship issues or challenges at home, school, or work? My name is Nuni, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years of experience helping people who are experiencing issues like depression, anxiety, and stress. My foundation is Client-centered, which means that I believe that clients and therapists are equal partners in the therapeutic process.
(310) 870-3081 View (310) 870-3081
Photo of Shanet Dennis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shanet Dennis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Mindfulness is also actively incorporated into my practice.
My interest in Marriage and Family Therapy stems from a desire to fill a gap that was present in my own community. Having had experiences where an unbiased sounding board could have been pivotal in navigating unstable relationships, I set a path that allowed me to be the change I wanted to see. The general philosophy that anchors my practice is “building healthy relationships one story at a time.” This includes the relationship with oneself. There is no one fits all solution to a problem, or one way of getting to a place of feeling well. This in mind I aim to listen, learn, validate, and advocate for what “works” for my clients.
Mindfulness is also actively incorporated into my practice.
My interest in Marriage and Family Therapy stems from a desire to fill a gap that was present in my own community. Having had experiences where an unbiased sounding board could have been pivotal in navigating unstable relationships, I set a path that allowed me to be the change I wanted to see. The general philosophy that anchors my practice is “building healthy relationships one story at a time.” This includes the relationship with oneself. There is no one fits all solution to a problem, or one way of getting to a place of feeling well. This in mind I aim to listen, learn, validate, and advocate for what “works” for my clients.
(323) 844-8107 View (323) 844-8107
Photo of Robyn Chazen, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Chazen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I use guided questioning and mindfulness activities to create engaging, thought provoking and meaningful sessions with adults.
Is something keeping you up at night? Whether you or a loved one are feeling stressed, having difficulty adjusting to a new job, working from home, or in a tough relationship, let me help you work through the difficult situation. I have experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Combining your insight into your life situation and my training in evidenced based practices, together we will create realistic individualized goals for therapy following a strengths based approach.
I use guided questioning and mindfulness activities to create engaging, thought provoking and meaningful sessions with adults.
Is something keeping you up at night? Whether you or a loved one are feeling stressed, having difficulty adjusting to a new job, working from home, or in a tough relationship, let me help you work through the difficult situation. I have experience providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Combining your insight into your life situation and my training in evidenced based practices, together we will create realistic individualized goals for therapy following a strengths based approach.
(747) 271-2159 View (747) 271-2159
Photo of Julie Brams, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Brams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach combining traditional therapy with EMDR Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique and Mindfulness based interventions depending on your needs.
Most people looking for a private therapist value a safe comfortable space where they can talk with a trained professional and take a look at what who they are, what they've been through and where they're headed in their life. You may be in transition, maybe starting or ending a significant relationship, want to get your relationship back on track, or have come to a point in your life where you want to grow and develop in new ways. You may have some past trauma holding you back, or have had a significant loss that challenges how you see yourself going forward.
I use an integrative approach combining traditional therapy with EMDR Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique and Mindfulness based interventions depending on your needs.
Most people looking for a private therapist value a safe comfortable space where they can talk with a trained professional and take a look at what who they are, what they've been through and where they're headed in their life. You may be in transition, maybe starting or ending a significant relationship, want to get your relationship back on track, or have come to a point in your life where you want to grow and develop in new ways. You may have some past trauma holding you back, or have had a significant loss that challenges how you see yourself going forward.
(818) 483-6695 View (818) 483-6695
Photo of Lisa Markinson, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Markinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I am passionate about providing a safe and warm environment where my clients are free to explore and grow. I strongly believe that the collaborative nature of therapy can help one to see things anew and bring about the change you desire. With an integrative approach and my background in family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy, we will work together to uncover what stands in the way of your growth and develop the tools and insights that will move you towards a life filled with more self-acceptance, joy, and fulfillment. 

I am passionate about providing a safe and warm environment where my clients are free to explore and grow. I strongly believe that the collaborative nature of therapy can help one to see things anew and bring about the change you desire. With an integrative approach and my background in family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy, we will work together to uncover what stands in the way of your growth and develop the tools and insights that will move you towards a life filled with more self-acceptance, joy, and fulfillment. 

(818) 600-2725 View (818) 600-2725
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.