Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in San Rafael, CA

Photo of Amy Biesemeyer, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Biesemeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My style integrates contemporary approaches, such as Client-Centered therapy, with alternative ones, including Mindfulness (the mind becomes a useful tool and not a relentless tyrant), the Ennegram (a map for self-awareness and evolution) and Somatics (strengthens the connection between mind, body and spirit).
Is it hard for you to really value and love yourself, creating difficulties in your relationships or career? Are you overwhelmed and at the mercy of your thoughts and feelings? I will partner with you to address issues such as these and what is most important to you, with respect, compassion and insight. You can develop a greater ability to be in the present moment - where life happens. You can improve your relationships, your confidence to face challenges and your ability to make decisions. My greatest intention is to empower you to love and live your truest self!
My style integrates contemporary approaches, such as Client-Centered therapy, with alternative ones, including Mindfulness (the mind becomes a useful tool and not a relentless tyrant), the Ennegram (a map for self-awareness and evolution) and Somatics (strengthens the connection between mind, body and spirit).
Is it hard for you to really value and love yourself, creating difficulties in your relationships or career? Are you overwhelmed and at the mercy of your thoughts and feelings? I will partner with you to address issues such as these and what is most important to you, with respect, compassion and insight. You can develop a greater ability to be in the present moment - where life happens. You can improve your relationships, your confidence to face challenges and your ability to make decisions. My greatest intention is to empower you to love and live your truest self!
(514) 400-9341 View (514) 400-9341
Photo of Susan Quigley - Susan Quigley, MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Quigley, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach is mind-body oriented and utilizes an Internal Family Systems framework, incorporating CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
Ready for change and a more satisfying and balanced life? I offer compassionate listening, practical guidance and an action oriented approach to assist you in making the changes you want in your life.
My approach is mind-body oriented and utilizes an Internal Family Systems framework, incorporating CBT, somatic and mindfulness based practices.
Ready for change and a more satisfying and balanced life? I offer compassionate listening, practical guidance and an action oriented approach to assist you in making the changes you want in your life.
(415) 481-4921 View (415) 481-4921
Photo of Tom Thurston, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Thurston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I work with my clients to deeply discover and access new resources and potentials of "self at best" both for growth and as ways beyond obstacles. I believe the quality of the relationship between the therapist and client is essential for change. I have over 17 years of spiritual practice which I incorporate using mindfulness, inquiry and dream work.
I work with my clients to deeply discover and access new resources and potentials of "self at best" both for growth and as ways beyond obstacles. I believe the quality of the relationship between the therapist and client is essential for change. I have over 17 years of spiritual practice which I incorporate using mindfulness, inquiry and dream work.
(415) 742-1961 View (415) 742-1961
Photo of Kate Herrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Herrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
In my practice I bring compassion, humor, insight, and a sincere dedication to my clients. My practice is grounded in attachment theory, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (E/RP), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). With my warm and welcoming nature, I strive to create a safe space for children, teens and adults to explore their concerns. In collaboration with you, I will support you in taking steps toward an improved sense of well-being and a life path that aligns with your deepest values. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and provide parent coaching.
In my practice I bring compassion, humor, insight, and a sincere dedication to my clients. My practice is grounded in attachment theory, play therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (E/RP), and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). With my warm and welcoming nature, I strive to create a safe space for children, teens and adults to explore their concerns. In collaboration with you, I will support you in taking steps toward an improved sense of well-being and a life path that aligns with your deepest values. I work with individuals of all ages, families, and provide parent coaching.
(415) 578-6083 x1 View (415) 578-6083 x1
Photo of Matthew Foley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Matthew Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My work combines traditional relational psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral work, with the goal of connecting you with your own inner wisdom and strength.
If you're struggling with difficult symptoms, problems in a relationship, or just a lingering feeling that things can be better in your life, psychotherapy can help. I see it as my job as a therapist to help you feel empowered, more alive, and connected to your vision of what you want your life to be. Therapy is new to many of the people I work with and I invite you to see how therapy can give you the tools to change your life.
My work combines traditional relational psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral work, with the goal of connecting you with your own inner wisdom and strength.
If you're struggling with difficult symptoms, problems in a relationship, or just a lingering feeling that things can be better in your life, psychotherapy can help. I see it as my job as a therapist to help you feel empowered, more alive, and connected to your vision of what you want your life to be. Therapy is new to many of the people I work with and I invite you to see how therapy can give you the tools to change your life.
(510) 878-3512 View (510) 878-3512
Photo of Anicia A Williams, BS, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anicia A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR & Attachment Focused EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, multicultural issues, addictions & the relationships that suffer as a result. I love helping anyone willing, to (learn to) love and honor the person they are today & recognize their story’s ending is one that they get to choose. I enjoy helping clients who found ways to manage their mental health issues in ways that are no longer serving them. My practice is a safe space and provides equality of services and care to everyone, regardless of age, gender, gender identity, race, disability, religion, or belief or sexual orientation.
I use an integrative approach: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR & Attachment Focused EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic & Mindfulness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, multicultural issues, addictions & the relationships that suffer as a result. I love helping anyone willing, to (learn to) love and honor the person they are today & recognize their story’s ending is one that they get to choose. I enjoy helping clients who found ways to manage their mental health issues in ways that are no longer serving them. My practice is a safe space and provides equality of services and care to everyone, regardless of age, gender, gender identity, race, disability, religion, or belief or sexual orientation.
(415) 991-1428 View (415) 991-1428
Photo of Astrid Koltun, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Astrid Koltun
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Something is no longer working. You sense you have the capacity to experience greater ease and joy in your life. Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and nurturing environment, where we can address emotional blocks and patterns of behavior that are no longer serving. Through body awareness, mindfulness, and deep listening I will support your unfolding, bringing strength and clarity to your relationships and decision making. Whether you are struggling with a phase of life change, anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, I offer a warm and non judgmental space for the process of healing to occur.
Something is no longer working. You sense you have the capacity to experience greater ease and joy in your life. Through the therapeutic relationship, I provide a safe and nurturing environment, where we can address emotional blocks and patterns of behavior that are no longer serving. Through body awareness, mindfulness, and deep listening I will support your unfolding, bringing strength and clarity to your relationships and decision making. Whether you are struggling with a phase of life change, anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma, I offer a warm and non judgmental space for the process of healing to occur.
(415) 886-2917 View (415) 886-2917
Photo of Ellis McCauley - Ellis McCauley Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellis McCauley Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My work is mindfulness based, experiential & somatic (body-centered) which means we are going to do more than just talk about problems!.
I can help you to listen deeply to yourself, to learn to treat yourself kindly and with a keen ear for what is most important for being your fullest self. You don't have to be ruled by self-criticism, fear or past hurts. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which can expedite results beyond what's possible in talk therapy alone. KAP brings shifts in perspective that can be anchored and implemented towards lasting change. If you are struggling with painful thoughts, memories, sense of self, life choices, or relationships, I can help you find greater clarity and choices that support you to be your most authentic self.
My work is mindfulness based, experiential & somatic (body-centered) which means we are going to do more than just talk about problems!.
I can help you to listen deeply to yourself, to learn to treat yourself kindly and with a keen ear for what is most important for being your fullest self. You don't have to be ruled by self-criticism, fear or past hurts. I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), which can expedite results beyond what's possible in talk therapy alone. KAP brings shifts in perspective that can be anchored and implemented towards lasting change. If you are struggling with painful thoughts, memories, sense of self, life choices, or relationships, I can help you find greater clarity and choices that support you to be your most authentic self.
(415) 634-0950 View (415) 634-0950
Photo of Colin Maslan, MA, ASW
Colin Maslan
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, ASW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
My interventions are rooted in providing psychoeducation and honoring client self-determination, helping clients to better understand their experiences. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions to assist children, youth, and young adults in recognizing the interconnectedness between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which enables them to develop and implement personalized coping strategies to reduce anxiety and depression. I have also received training in mindfulness-based interventions aimed at assisting clients in using breathwork and meditation to reduce their stress.
My interventions are rooted in providing psychoeducation and honoring client self-determination, helping clients to better understand their experiences. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) interventions to assist children, youth, and young adults in recognizing the interconnectedness between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which enables them to develop and implement personalized coping strategies to reduce anxiety and depression. I have also received training in mindfulness-based interventions aimed at assisting clients in using breathwork and meditation to reduce their stress.
(415) 985-8916 x1 View (415) 985-8916 x1
Photo of Starla Dean - Buddhist Therapy Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Buddhist Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
Welcome to my Buddhist and Soul-Centered Psychotherapy practice. With an unshakeable belief in your ability to heal and thrive, and 20 years of helping clients through their darkest nights of soul - a sanctuary of trust, nurturing wisdom and deep healing is here for you. We will explore your inner world and the power of holistic and spiritual psychotherapies - mindfulness and body-based therapies that transform people's lives. I specialize in working with adults who need help with the sometimes devastating and often overwhelming symptoms that grief, loss, anxiety and crisis may bring. You deserve to have a village of support!
(415) 849-4108 View (415) 849-4108
Photo of Ashley Gallagher, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Gallagher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
I employ a psychodynamic approach with a feminist lens while weaving in attachment theory, mindfulness and psychoanalysis.
Are you looking for support navigating a relationship? Does the feeling of being "stuck" block you from who or what you want to be? Does your self-worth feel compromised by societal standards of beauty and achievement? We all struggle with some level of anxiety or low self-esteem at some point in our lives. In these times, we need someone to walk with us for a while. I help my clients overcome limiting beliefs, decrease anxiety, explore relational dynamics, and develop healthy and sustainable coping skills. Together we build a safe space to meet the fears, rediscover your intuition and understand your unique wants and needs.
I employ a psychodynamic approach with a feminist lens while weaving in attachment theory, mindfulness and psychoanalysis.
Are you looking for support navigating a relationship? Does the feeling of being "stuck" block you from who or what you want to be? Does your self-worth feel compromised by societal standards of beauty and achievement? We all struggle with some level of anxiety or low self-esteem at some point in our lives. In these times, we need someone to walk with us for a while. I help my clients overcome limiting beliefs, decrease anxiety, explore relational dynamics, and develop healthy and sustainable coping skills. Together we build a safe space to meet the fears, rediscover your intuition and understand your unique wants and needs.
(415) 301-7360 View (415) 301-7360
Theresa Koke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I'm an experienced teacher of stress reduction techniques, including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and I have certifications in EMDR, Thought Field Therapy/Emotional Freedom Technique, breath work, and hypnotherapy.
I invite you to collaborate with me in cultivating inner peace and greater life satisfaction. While stress and anxiety are all too common nowadays, my years of practicing a wide variety of therapeutic approaches allow me to offer you many possibilities for effective change. As a seasoned therapist, I'm skilled at creating a supportive environment for you to explore and transform your responses to life's challenges. I carefully tailor my approach to meet your individual needs, combining strategies that will best address your particular concerns.
I'm an experienced teacher of stress reduction techniques, including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and I have certifications in EMDR, Thought Field Therapy/Emotional Freedom Technique, breath work, and hypnotherapy.
I invite you to collaborate with me in cultivating inner peace and greater life satisfaction. While stress and anxiety are all too common nowadays, my years of practicing a wide variety of therapeutic approaches allow me to offer you many possibilities for effective change. As a seasoned therapist, I'm skilled at creating a supportive environment for you to explore and transform your responses to life's challenges. I carefully tailor my approach to meet your individual needs, combining strategies that will best address your particular concerns.
(650) 741-5497 View (650) 741-5497
Photo of Joseph Choy, PsyD, Psychologist
Joseph Choy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and mental health professional specializing in integrating evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with a warm and empathetic approach.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, anxious or alone? Are you having trouble coping with life’s stressors, chronic health issues, having relationship conflicts, or plagued with unsettling thoughts, feelings and behaviors? Often times these difficult experiences stem from a lack of awareness and disharmony in our lives and not having the tools, strategies and guidance to help us overcome our problems.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and mental health professional specializing in integrating evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with a warm and empathetic approach.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed, anxious or alone? Are you having trouble coping with life’s stressors, chronic health issues, having relationship conflicts, or plagued with unsettling thoughts, feelings and behaviors? Often times these difficult experiences stem from a lack of awareness and disharmony in our lives and not having the tools, strategies and guidance to help us overcome our problems.
(415) 226-4096 View (415) 226-4096
Photo of Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman, LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I draw from several therapies including CBT, mindfulness therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems, for adolescents through young adults.
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
I draw from several therapies including CBT, mindfulness therapy, psychodynamic therapy, family systems, for adolescents through young adults.
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
(415) 360-1273 View (415) 360-1273
Photo of Rachel L Barr, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel L Barr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach is based in Family System ideology and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
*COUPLES COUNSELING* Are you and your partner in a stuck place? Are you having difficulty navigating around the same conversation or disagreement? Are you working toward recovery from an infidelity? I work with couples and individuals in Modern Love, a place that asks a lot of relationship. I'm an active and collaborative therapist who works to move clients past the comforts of what is known and into the possibilities of the unknown. I work with couples across the fluid spectrum, and in monogamist and consensual non-monogamy relationships.
My approach is based in Family System ideology and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
*COUPLES COUNSELING* Are you and your partner in a stuck place? Are you having difficulty navigating around the same conversation or disagreement? Are you working toward recovery from an infidelity? I work with couples and individuals in Modern Love, a place that asks a lot of relationship. I'm an active and collaborative therapist who works to move clients past the comforts of what is known and into the possibilities of the unknown. I work with couples across the fluid spectrum, and in monogamist and consensual non-monogamy relationships.
(323) 393-3678 View (323) 393-3678
Photo of Virgine De Paepe - Virgine De Paepe, MA, LMFT, CMT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Virgine De Paepe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CMT, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Why is it so incredibly hard for us to love and accept ourselves? Using mindfulness, attachment theory, and the latest research in neuroscience, I help Individuals & couples transform their relationship from a source of pain into a source of deep lasting joy.
Hello! I have a warm, active and authentic style. I am not the stereo typical therapist who sits back and nods. I'm engaged and curious about you and your process, and I'm constantly learning about new approaches to healing and therapy. I am originally from Belgium and have been living in the states for 20 years now. My ultimate goal is to inspire, guide and empower you to live more JOY-FUL lives. I have a strong interest in working with women on the foundation of their SELF ESTEEM and how this impacts their relationships and decisions.
Why is it so incredibly hard for us to love and accept ourselves? Using mindfulness, attachment theory, and the latest research in neuroscience, I help Individuals & couples transform their relationship from a source of pain into a source of deep lasting joy.
Hello! I have a warm, active and authentic style. I am not the stereo typical therapist who sits back and nods. I'm engaged and curious about you and your process, and I'm constantly learning about new approaches to healing and therapy. I am originally from Belgium and have been living in the states for 20 years now. My ultimate goal is to inspire, guide and empower you to live more JOY-FUL lives. I have a strong interest in working with women on the foundation of their SELF ESTEEM and how this impacts their relationships and decisions.
(415) 969-7190 View (415) 969-7190
Photo of Ahria Wolf, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ahria Wolf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Hello! I am a seasoned therapist bringing a warm, embodied presence to our work. I will meet you with care and compassion to support your journey. I am trained in Trauma modalities, Somatic Experiencing, Attachment work, and psychodynamic theories. I am certified by Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach to teach Mindfulness meditation, with many years of spiritual practice and study in a number of different traditions. I work with death, dying and grief, including climate grief and hold a current death doula certificate. Trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, I am available for the integration of other psychedelic experience.
Hello! I am a seasoned therapist bringing a warm, embodied presence to our work. I will meet you with care and compassion to support your journey. I am trained in Trauma modalities, Somatic Experiencing, Attachment work, and psychodynamic theories. I am certified by Jack Kornfield and Tara Brach to teach Mindfulness meditation, with many years of spiritual practice and study in a number of different traditions. I work with death, dying and grief, including climate grief and hold a current death doula certificate. Trained in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, I am available for the integration of other psychedelic experience.
(415) 881-1561 View (415) 881-1561
Photo of Daniel Cha, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Cha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
My goal is to create a safe, warm, open (and sometimes humorous) environment where relational support through challenging times will be provided. While drawn toward Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I have piqued interests with integrating Mindfulness/Positive Psychology tenets along with discovering psychodynamic processes.
My goal is to create a safe, warm, open (and sometimes humorous) environment where relational support through challenging times will be provided. While drawn toward Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I have piqued interests with integrating Mindfulness/Positive Psychology tenets along with discovering psychodynamic processes.
(310) 439-5419 View (310) 439-5419
Photo of Victoria Bloom, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Bloom
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
Some of the modalities include, Imaginal Psychology, Psychodynamic, Art therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, ACT, DBT, Addiction and relapse prevention, 12-Step work, codependency, life transitions of all stages, trangender issues, Gottman couples work, and Emotionally Focused couples therapy.
Suffering and distress have probably brought you to this page seeking relief and greater well-being. I bring my knowledge, understanding, experience, and compassionate presence to the table in my role as your guide toward healing and greater well-being. Through deep listening with the aim of truly seeing you, we will forge a path together designed to work in the best way for you to heal, grow, and move forward. The aim is to develop insight, forge new skills, attitudes, and actions to create a life of greater well-being and satifaction.
Some of the modalities include, Imaginal Psychology, Psychodynamic, Art therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, ACT, DBT, Addiction and relapse prevention, 12-Step work, codependency, life transitions of all stages, trangender issues, Gottman couples work, and Emotionally Focused couples therapy.
Suffering and distress have probably brought you to this page seeking relief and greater well-being. I bring my knowledge, understanding, experience, and compassionate presence to the table in my role as your guide toward healing and greater well-being. Through deep listening with the aim of truly seeing you, we will forge a path together designed to work in the best way for you to heal, grow, and move forward. The aim is to develop insight, forge new skills, attitudes, and actions to create a life of greater well-being and satifaction.
(628) 345-4617 View (628) 345-4617
Photo of Hannah Milan Gottsegen - Hannah Milan Gottsegen, MFT, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hannah Milan Gottsegen, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I offer psychotherapy for adults, kids, teens, couples and families. I support each client to explore what their needs and feelings are in a safe and supportive relationship. I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing & Mindfulness tools to help relieve symptoms of trauma and anxiety.
I offer psychotherapy for adults, kids, teens, couples and families. I support each client to explore what their needs and feelings are in a safe and supportive relationship. I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing & Mindfulness tools to help relieve symptoms of trauma and anxiety.
(415) 660-9541 View (415) 660-9541
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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.