Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Chicago, IL
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, creative and collaborative, one in which I often incorporate meditation and somatic work, informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory. I seek to create a therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, validated and understood. We live in a society where we often feel we should weather stress alone but sometimes having someone truly hear you and see you makes all the difference.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, strengths-based, creative and collaborative, one in which I often incorporate meditation and somatic work, informed by Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory. I seek to create a therapeutic environment where you will feel heard, validated and understood. We live in a society where we often feel we should weather stress alone but sometimes having someone truly hear you and see you makes all the difference.
Everyone struggles from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their inner strength to foster healing and restore balance when faced with days of feeling defeated or overwhelmed, mental health challenges, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction, and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you are free to discover your authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight using thought-based approaches to support positive changes in behavior and overall well-being.
Everyone struggles from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their inner strength to foster healing and restore balance when faced with days of feeling defeated or overwhelmed, mental health challenges, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction, and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you are free to discover your authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral, and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight using thought-based approaches to support positive changes in behavior and overall well-being.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first steps to care for your mental health.
This isn’t a sign of weakness—it shows strength. My job is to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals, and to remind you that hope is always there, even when it seems out of reach. I pull from the Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) modalities. I like to challenge you to think in new ways and often bring activities into our sessions to help you do that. I’ve received training in Couples Counseling and I’m excited to offer affordable help to couples who need it.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first steps to care for your mental health.
This isn’t a sign of weakness—it shows strength. My job is to help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals, and to remind you that hope is always there, even when it seems out of reach. I pull from the Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavior (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) modalities. I like to challenge you to think in new ways and often bring activities into our sessions to help you do that. I’ve received training in Couples Counseling and I’m excited to offer affordable help to couples who need it.
I look forward to working alongside you as we create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic space. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to increase your awareness, insight, and coping. My role is to tailor effective treatment strategies to your specific challenges, goals, and resources allowing you approach challenging life situations from a confident and connected space. My clinical approach also emphasizes identifying sources of joy and belonging to further strengthen your skills around managing stressors and triggers effectively.
I look forward to working alongside you as we create a collaborative and engaging therapeutic space. Within the safety and trust of the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to increase your awareness, insight, and coping. My role is to tailor effective treatment strategies to your specific challenges, goals, and resources allowing you approach challenging life situations from a confident and connected space. My clinical approach also emphasizes identifying sources of joy and belonging to further strengthen your skills around managing stressors and triggers effectively.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
I believe that providing a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment is most important to a strong and thriving therapeutic relationship.
My working model is positioned from a trauma informed, holistic, strength-based approach to understanding how we are able to cope with life and grow to be resilient. I base my clinical interventions in art therapy principles and both traditional / non-traditional approaches to understand clients' inner world and foster self-expression and trauma processing.
My working model is positioned from a trauma informed, holistic, strength-based approach to understanding how we are able to cope with life and grow to be resilient. I base my clinical interventions in art therapy principles and both traditional / non-traditional approaches to understand clients' inner world and foster self-expression and trauma processing.
I find it imperative to work with clients at all levels: body, mind and spirit, using compassion and mindfulness as primary modes of connection and understanding.
Fundamentally, we all search for meaning and our highest, most fulfilled life. Therapy can help to uncover and rectify those blockages that hold us back - the trauma that has paralyzed, the depression that has frozen, or the anxiety that has impaired. Through a holistic approach, I can help you to identify ways in which to overcome these obstacles.
I find it imperative to work with clients at all levels: body, mind and spirit, using compassion and mindfulness as primary modes of connection and understanding.
Fundamentally, we all search for meaning and our highest, most fulfilled life. Therapy can help to uncover and rectify those blockages that hold us back - the trauma that has paralyzed, the depression that has frozen, or the anxiety that has impaired. Through a holistic approach, I can help you to identify ways in which to overcome these obstacles.
Many people experience shame when they struggle with anxiety or depression, wondering why they can’t simply “think positively” or “snap out of it.” You might remind yourself of what you’re grateful for, yet still feel anxious, sad, or disconnected, and then feel guilty for feeling that way. Emotional struggles don’t mean something is wrong with you; they mean you’re human. Therapy can be a supportive space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment and begin understanding what you need to heal and feel whole again.
Many people experience shame when they struggle with anxiety or depression, wondering why they can’t simply “think positively” or “snap out of it.” You might remind yourself of what you’re grateful for, yet still feel anxious, sad, or disconnected, and then feel guilty for feeling that way. Emotional struggles don’t mean something is wrong with you; they mean you’re human. Therapy can be a supportive space to explore your thoughts and emotions without judgment and begin understanding what you need to heal and feel whole again.
Welcome, I'm a licensed therapist with over 35 years of experience providing virtual counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups. I've worked with clients with concerns including depression, grief and loss, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, addiction, codependency, family and relationship issues, LGBT, and life transitions. Additional experience includes: career development, EAP services, crisis intervention, and critical incident debriefing. Post graduate experience includes certificates in Internal Family Systems, PAIRS, PEERS, addictions, spiritual psychology, and breathwork. I help people empower themselves.
Welcome, I'm a licensed therapist with over 35 years of experience providing virtual counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups. I've worked with clients with concerns including depression, grief and loss, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, addiction, codependency, family and relationship issues, LGBT, and life transitions. Additional experience includes: career development, EAP services, crisis intervention, and critical incident debriefing. Post graduate experience includes certificates in Internal Family Systems, PAIRS, PEERS, addictions, spiritual psychology, and breathwork. I help people empower themselves.
I use a collaborative treatment approach and different behavioral therapies to help clients develop skills to live more effective and meaningful lives. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of supporting clients to reach their goals. I focus on each client and their level of need and recognize what works with one individual may not work for another. I use evidence based treatment to best support each client to help navigate their journey. I am passionate about mental health issues and strongly believe that given the right tools and resources, anyone can improve their mental health.
I use a collaborative treatment approach and different behavioral therapies to help clients develop skills to live more effective and meaningful lives. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of supporting clients to reach their goals. I focus on each client and their level of need and recognize what works with one individual may not work for another. I use evidence based treatment to best support each client to help navigate their journey. I am passionate about mental health issues and strongly believe that given the right tools and resources, anyone can improve their mental health.
I can help you untie strings of life experience and develop solutions and strategies to solve dilemmas with resolution, using positive psychology, mindfulness and solution focused approaches tailored to your goals.
I am a clinical psychologist and neuroplasticity wellness coach with 25 years of experience I offer telehealth. I specialize in reframing, cognitive processing with emotional regulation and resilience for anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, ADHD, motivation, career goals, relationships, family dynamics, communication, and stress management. I offer Christian Counseling when requested. Licensed in Illinois and Michigan. I would be honored to be of assistance.
I can help you untie strings of life experience and develop solutions and strategies to solve dilemmas with resolution, using positive psychology, mindfulness and solution focused approaches tailored to your goals.
I am a clinical psychologist and neuroplasticity wellness coach with 25 years of experience I offer telehealth. I specialize in reframing, cognitive processing with emotional regulation and resilience for anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, ADHD, motivation, career goals, relationships, family dynamics, communication, and stress management. I offer Christian Counseling when requested. Licensed in Illinois and Michigan. I would be honored to be of assistance.
Hi! I'm Tai, a neurodivergent, queer, non-binary person who also suffers from chronic illness and visual impairment.
I became a therapist because I know what it’s like to grow up feeling alone and scared. To feel like no one understands or cares, to start with nothing and work for everything, and to live with the fear that it could all slip away at any moment. I also know how painful it can be to live in a world that doesn’t always accept you for who you are, whether that’s because of your gender, sexuality, disability, or the way your mind works as a neurodiverse person.
Hi! I'm Tai, a neurodivergent, queer, non-binary person who also suffers from chronic illness and visual impairment.
I became a therapist because I know what it’s like to grow up feeling alone and scared. To feel like no one understands or cares, to start with nothing and work for everything, and to live with the fear that it could all slip away at any moment. I also know how painful it can be to live in a world that doesn’t always accept you for who you are, whether that’s because of your gender, sexuality, disability, or the way your mind works as a neurodiverse person.
Using various evidenced-based practices, mindfulness techniques, and a trauma-informed lens, we will work through the roller coaster of emotions, helping you heal, cope, and work towards change.
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Therapist. I have worked in the field for over a decade supporting mothers, children, and their families, and was part of one of the first perinatal programs in the Midwest. I provide counseling services to women experiencing various mental health concerns, including perinatal mood disorders, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, bereavement, trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal partner violence, and many more areas. My passion is working with women on their journey into motherhood, empowering them to acquire tools to decrease daily stressors and adjust to new roles and routines.
Using various evidenced-based practices, mindfulness techniques, and a trauma-informed lens, we will work through the roller coaster of emotions, helping you heal, cope, and work towards change.
I am a bilingual Spanish-speaking Therapist. I have worked in the field for over a decade supporting mothers, children, and their families, and was part of one of the first perinatal programs in the Midwest. I provide counseling services to women experiencing various mental health concerns, including perinatal mood disorders, postpartum depression, anxiety, grief, bereavement, trauma, sexual abuse, interpersonal partner violence, and many more areas. My passion is working with women on their journey into motherhood, empowering them to acquire tools to decrease daily stressors and adjust to new roles and routines.
Guided by your unique needs and values, I tailor my approach to meet you where you are, often utilizing aspects of existentialism, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches to manage anxiety, PTSD, grief, life transitions, chronic illness, and perinatal challenges.
I believe our past experiences help shape who we are, but they don't have to define us. As your therapist, my goal is to help you navigate life’s barriers to find authenticity, acceptance, and self-compassion. Using a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens, I strive to provide a non-judgmental space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore your inner experiences. Whether you’re still processing trauma from the past, struggling to find meaning in the present, or feeling anxious of where to go next, I will meet you with empathy and encouragement as you discover your inner strengths to forge your path.
Guided by your unique needs and values, I tailor my approach to meet you where you are, often utilizing aspects of existentialism, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based approaches to manage anxiety, PTSD, grief, life transitions, chronic illness, and perinatal challenges.
I believe our past experiences help shape who we are, but they don't have to define us. As your therapist, my goal is to help you navigate life’s barriers to find authenticity, acceptance, and self-compassion. Using a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive lens, I strive to provide a non-judgmental space where you feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore your inner experiences. Whether you’re still processing trauma from the past, struggling to find meaning in the present, or feeling anxious of where to go next, I will meet you with empathy and encouragement as you discover your inner strengths to forge your path.
You wake up already scanning the day, replaying yesterday, wondering if you are living life “right.” Your mind circles back to conversations, questioning if you are enough. It is relentless. The second-guessing. The what-ifs. The pressure to find a quick sense of relief from the noise. Maybe analyzing feels like control. Or perhaps you’ve found other ways to cope: rituals that promise a win, habits that involve losing yourself in a screen, or the urge to double down on a feeling just to stop the spiral. You want room to breathe without your mind or your impulses narrating every moment.
You wake up already scanning the day, replaying yesterday, wondering if you are living life “right.” Your mind circles back to conversations, questioning if you are enough. It is relentless. The second-guessing. The what-ifs. The pressure to find a quick sense of relief from the noise. Maybe analyzing feels like control. Or perhaps you’ve found other ways to cope: rituals that promise a win, habits that involve losing yourself in a screen, or the urge to double down on a feeling just to stop the spiral. You want room to breathe without your mind or your impulses narrating every moment.
I strive to help my clients heal, rebuild their lives, and increase resiliency. My greatest area of interest is learning how the past impacts the present. I believe that healing the pain of the past is key to unlocking who you truly are, and I’m honored to help my clients in this discovery process.
I strive to help my clients heal, rebuild their lives, and increase resiliency. My greatest area of interest is learning how the past impacts the present. I believe that healing the pain of the past is key to unlocking who you truly are, and I’m honored to help my clients in this discovery process.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Life Aligned Counseling offers individual and couples counseling services. Our team of therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-concept, family conflict, stress management, spirituality, significant life transitions, lgbtqia+ concerns, women's issues, men's issues, etc.
NOW Accepting New Clients! Life Aligned Counseling offers individual and couples counseling services. Our team of therapists has experience in a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem and self-concept, family conflict, stress management, spirituality, significant life transitions, lgbtqia+ concerns, women's issues, men's issues, etc.
I don’t believe therapy should feel clinical or intimidating. I show up as a real person: steady, curious, and deeply attentive. I care about helping you understand what’s underneath the anxiety, relationship patterns, or grief you’re carrying, not just managing the surface symptoms. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to perform, explain everything perfectly, or have it all figured out.
I don’t believe therapy should feel clinical or intimidating. I show up as a real person: steady, curious, and deeply attentive. I care about helping you understand what’s underneath the anxiety, relationship patterns, or grief you’re carrying, not just managing the surface symptoms. Therapy can be a place where you don’t have to perform, explain everything perfectly, or have it all figured out.
Our team is trained in many therapy approaches—CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based, somatic experiencing, EFT, Gottman, attachment-based, trauma-informed, narrative, existential, and more.
As the founder of Artesian Collaborative, it’s a privilege to work with a diverse team of psychologists, couples and family therapists, social workers, and counselors dedicated to supporting our community with the best of their fields. There’s a wealth of mental health resources, but there’s only one you. Our therapists are here to listen to your story, understand your strengths and sorrows, and support you in building the skills to reach your goals. The work you do will impact not only your life but also your relationships and community. Your culture, identity, experience, and values deserve to be seen and honored.
Our team is trained in many therapy approaches—CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based, somatic experiencing, EFT, Gottman, attachment-based, trauma-informed, narrative, existential, and more.
As the founder of Artesian Collaborative, it’s a privilege to work with a diverse team of psychologists, couples and family therapists, social workers, and counselors dedicated to supporting our community with the best of their fields. There’s a wealth of mental health resources, but there’s only one you. Our therapists are here to listen to your story, understand your strengths and sorrows, and support you in building the skills to reach your goals. The work you do will impact not only your life but also your relationships and community. Your culture, identity, experience, and values deserve to be seen and honored.
Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. My belief is that effective counseling work develops from establishing a collaborative relationship with clients. The goals of therapy are to gain self-awareness and understanding of the influence of their past on present circumstances, explore unresolved conflicts and symptoms that arise that manifest themselves in current issues going in their lives. Once this self awareness is recognized clients can examine unhealthy beliefs that lead to unhealthy behaviors and learn to change unhealthy thoughts to more realistic ones that lead to better emotional and mental health.
Hi, my name is Dr. Nikki Ruffin. My belief is that effective counseling work develops from establishing a collaborative relationship with clients. The goals of therapy are to gain self-awareness and understanding of the influence of their past on present circumstances, explore unresolved conflicts and symptoms that arise that manifest themselves in current issues going in their lives. Once this self awareness is recognized clients can examine unhealthy beliefs that lead to unhealthy behaviors and learn to change unhealthy thoughts to more realistic ones that lead to better emotional and mental health.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Norridge
- North Riverside
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Riverside
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.