Photo of Stephen Killen, Counselor in Alabama
Stephen Killen
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35244
I primarily practice counseling from the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy model of counseling but also use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
I love to work with a variety of individuals, but primarily have experience with the young and the young at heart. I enjoy hearing people's stories about how they got to wherever they are before before focusing on their goals and dreams for their lives. I work primarily with couples, individuals experiencing anxiety, and people trying to find themselves.
I primarily practice counseling from the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy model of counseling but also use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness.
I love to work with a variety of individuals, but primarily have experience with the young and the young at heart. I enjoy hearing people's stories about how they got to wherever they are before before focusing on their goals and dreams for their lives. I work primarily with couples, individuals experiencing anxiety, and people trying to find themselves.
(205) 896-6721 View (205) 896-6721
Photo of LaShanda Banks, Counselor in Alabama
LaShanda Banks
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Calera, AL 35040
I practice evidenced-based interventions with proven results such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, person-centered, etc.
No matter a person’s position in life, your mental health will always take precedence and determine your quality of life and how well you perform. It's an honor to be a provider and an advocate for mental health. I am a licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience providing services to various populations including, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Above all of the accolades, I’m human and I know that at some point or at several points in your lifetime you will need guidance and support.
I practice evidenced-based interventions with proven results such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, solution-focused, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, person-centered, etc.
No matter a person’s position in life, your mental health will always take precedence and determine your quality of life and how well you perform. It's an honor to be a provider and an advocate for mental health. I am a licensed professional counselor with over a decade of experience providing services to various populations including, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Above all of the accolades, I’m human and I know that at some point or at several points in your lifetime you will need guidance and support.
(205) 668-5179 View (205) 668-5179
Photo of Leslie Herhold Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Leslie Herhold Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Gulf Shores, AL 36542
We are a multi-specialty therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Art and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
We are a multi-specialty therapy practice serving the needs of the entire family. From postpartum depression and infertility, to trauma and addiction, to ADHD and anxiety, we are here for your family. We utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Art and Play therapy. We have each received specialized training in our respective areas of expertise, and we are so excited to bring these services to Baldwin and Jefferson Counties.
(251) 202-9003 View (251) 202-9003
Photo of Savannah Donahoe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Savannah Donahoe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Savannah utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), person-centered therapy (PCT), and gender-affirming therapy.
Savannah Donahoe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in trauma, crisis response, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, PTSD, depression and anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity-related issues, sexual identity,-related issues, grief, and loss. Savannah is passionate about providing support to folks of all ages through the unique challenges that they face. She values the importance of diversity, self-identity, and multicultural competency. Savannah completed her Master's degree in Counseling at the University of Montevallo. She has experience in trauma and crisis response, as well as gender-affirming care.
Savannah utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), person-centered therapy (PCT), and gender-affirming therapy.
Savannah Donahoe is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in trauma, crisis response, LGBTQIA+ issues, gender-affirming care, PTSD, depression and anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity-related issues, sexual identity,-related issues, grief, and loss. Savannah is passionate about providing support to folks of all ages through the unique challenges that they face. She values the importance of diversity, self-identity, and multicultural competency. Savannah completed her Master's degree in Counseling at the University of Montevallo. She has experience in trauma and crisis response, as well as gender-affirming care.
(205) 839-5404 View (205) 839-5404
Photo of Ida Wadsworth, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Ida Wadsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
I am a licensed professional counselor and have been working in the mental health field since 2009. I specialize in trauma informed care and use a collaborative yet eclectic approach in order to fit the needs of each unique individual I see. Aside from trauma therapy, I also treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, phobias and general counseling. I am certified in EMDR and hypnotherapy and use several modalities to treat clients. I also do group work and offer a meditation/mindfulness group.
I am a licensed professional counselor and have been working in the mental health field since 2009. I specialize in trauma informed care and use a collaborative yet eclectic approach in order to fit the needs of each unique individual I see. Aside from trauma therapy, I also treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, phobias and general counseling. I am certified in EMDR and hypnotherapy and use several modalities to treat clients. I also do group work and offer a meditation/mindfulness group.
(256) 935-1953 View (256) 935-1953
Photo of Michael Azar, Associate Licensed Counselor in Alabama
Michael Azar
Associate Licensed Counselor, ALC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Opelika, AL 36801
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to a new life change? Do you experience anxiety and/or depression? Do grief and trauma seem to take over your life at times? If you answered "yes" to any of these situations, I might be able to help you. Together, we can work to build a solid foundation from which you can begin to adjust to whatever life brings you. I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques into my practice to help my clients ground themselves in the present moment and be able to take the techniques they develop in session into their daily life.
Are you having a difficult time adjusting to a new life change? Do you experience anxiety and/or depression? Do grief and trauma seem to take over your life at times? If you answered "yes" to any of these situations, I might be able to help you. Together, we can work to build a solid foundation from which you can begin to adjust to whatever life brings you. I incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques into my practice to help my clients ground themselves in the present moment and be able to take the techniques they develop in session into their daily life.
(334) 758-8836 View (334) 758-8836
Photo of Cindy Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Cindy Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
I focus on a holistic client-centered, strengths-based approach to therapy utilizing various treatment approaches which can include EMDR,CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Do you find yourself constantly being triggered by past trauma? Are you experiencing feelings of worry and self-doubt that cause you to feel stuck and not able to live the life you dreamed of? Do you find yourself struggling to find normalcy again after a divorce, bad break-up, unexpected loss or this Covid-19 pandemic? Are you a parent with a preteen or teen that’s dealing with anxiety or depression?
I focus on a holistic client-centered, strengths-based approach to therapy utilizing various treatment approaches which can include EMDR,CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Do you find yourself constantly being triggered by past trauma? Are you experiencing feelings of worry and self-doubt that cause you to feel stuck and not able to live the life you dreamed of? Do you find yourself struggling to find normalcy again after a divorce, bad break-up, unexpected loss or this Covid-19 pandemic? Are you a parent with a preteen or teen that’s dealing with anxiety or depression?
(205) 737-4385 View (205) 737-4385
Photo of Katherine Danielson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Katherine Danielson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Loxley, AL 36551  (Online Only)
My goal is to take a holistic approach, to see the client as a unique individual and expert of their own life, and tailor the treatment to reflect what would best serve their needs. I would like to share with clients techniques that incorporate evidence-based practices, as well as mindfulness and positivity, to teach them how to calm their over-stressed nervous systems, to gain clarity in their chaotic lives, and unload burdens in a safe and therapeutic environment without judgement.
My goal is to take a holistic approach, to see the client as a unique individual and expert of their own life, and tailor the treatment to reflect what would best serve their needs. I would like to share with clients techniques that incorporate evidence-based practices, as well as mindfulness and positivity, to teach them how to calm their over-stressed nervous systems, to gain clarity in their chaotic lives, and unload burdens in a safe and therapeutic environment without judgement.
(251) 451-0492 View (251) 451-0492
Photo of Margaret Rose Lolley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Margaret Rose Lolley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36604
Welcome! I specialize in helping individuals process and alleviate feelings of anxiety, panic and depression, as well as offering insight to help understand your unique responses and attachments in the mind and body. You will have the ability to learn and practice mindfulness, CBT, archetypal psychology and somatic therapy in a comfortable environment. I incorporate meditative and yogic methods, encouraging internal regulation while rebuilding safety in self. Every person experiences blind spots in their narrative that can create challenges in life, so together we can illuminate a new path for expansive healing and personal growth!
Welcome! I specialize in helping individuals process and alleviate feelings of anxiety, panic and depression, as well as offering insight to help understand your unique responses and attachments in the mind and body. You will have the ability to learn and practice mindfulness, CBT, archetypal psychology and somatic therapy in a comfortable environment. I incorporate meditative and yogic methods, encouraging internal regulation while rebuilding safety in self. Every person experiences blind spots in their narrative that can create challenges in life, so together we can illuminate a new path for expansive healing and personal growth!
(251) 273-5878 View (251) 273-5878
Photo of Merle Rebecca Stephens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Merle Rebecca Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR -C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36618
I use an eclectic approach using evidence based practices and techniques from EMDR, Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
I've been serving this community as a fully certified EMDR trauma therapist for over 13 years, and I am here to help you grow, heal, and change. I like to understand your story and life experiences that have led you to the place you are in at this moment, so that we can unroot some belief systems that have held you back from your full potential. A new perspective and understanding can change everything. EMDR is an amazing therapy to help you overcome. Due to my training and experience, there is little that would surprise me. I offer a nonjudgemental atmosphere that will offer you tools and insight to promote change in your life.
I use an eclectic approach using evidence based practices and techniques from EMDR, Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
I've been serving this community as a fully certified EMDR trauma therapist for over 13 years, and I am here to help you grow, heal, and change. I like to understand your story and life experiences that have led you to the place you are in at this moment, so that we can unroot some belief systems that have held you back from your full potential. A new perspective and understanding can change everything. EMDR is an amazing therapy to help you overcome. Due to my training and experience, there is little that would surprise me. I offer a nonjudgemental atmosphere that will offer you tools and insight to promote change in your life.
(251) 265-4006 View (251) 265-4006
Photo of Emily J. Watson, LCSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Emily J. Watson, LCSW, PIP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
I teach Mindfulness techniques to clients who are experiencing non stop thinking.
Are you tired of feeling guilty and responsible for other adult's feeling and problems? Do you use alcohol or drugs to numb emotional pain? Or, are you having problems with relationships in the family, at work, or with friends? Do you feel stuck or helpless, have trouble making a decision? If you are tired of feeling sick and tired or you are feeling physical pain, I can help with all of the above. It is particularly important to me to assist in setting goals and giving practical tools for them to achieve their goals.
I teach Mindfulness techniques to clients who are experiencing non stop thinking.
Are you tired of feeling guilty and responsible for other adult's feeling and problems? Do you use alcohol or drugs to numb emotional pain? Or, are you having problems with relationships in the family, at work, or with friends? Do you feel stuck or helpless, have trouble making a decision? If you are tired of feeling sick and tired or you are feeling physical pain, I can help with all of the above. It is particularly important to me to assist in setting goals and giving practical tools for them to achieve their goals.
(256) 578-3173 View (256) 578-3173
Photo of Falyn Cochran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Falyn Cochran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Falyn utilizes solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness approaches to therapy.
Falyn Cochran is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field and counseling. She has a driven passion to help adults overcome life's unique challenges and gain interest in living a fulfilling life. Falyn specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, women's issues, and adjustment disorders.
Falyn utilizes solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness approaches to therapy.
Falyn Cochran is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field and counseling. She has a driven passion to help adults overcome life's unique challenges and gain interest in living a fulfilling life. Falyn specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, women's issues, and adjustment disorders.
(205) 740-4908 View (205) 740-4908
Photo of David Murphree, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
David Murphree
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
David incorporates nature, poetry, and mindfulness skills in his own life and in his therapy.
There are three birds on a wire. One decides to fly away, how many are left? Answer: Three. The one just decided to fly away. It didn’t actually do it. Perhaps you have decided that you are going to change. Are you ready to do so? David believes that we already have everything we need within ourselves, including the presence of the Divine within us. As a therapist, David’s role is to create a space where individuals can do the work it takes to move toward wholeness.
David incorporates nature, poetry, and mindfulness skills in his own life and in his therapy.
There are three birds on a wire. One decides to fly away, how many are left? Answer: Three. The one just decided to fly away. It didn’t actually do it. Perhaps you have decided that you are going to change. Are you ready to do so? David believes that we already have everything we need within ourselves, including the presence of the Divine within us. As a therapist, David’s role is to create a space where individuals can do the work it takes to move toward wholeness.
(205) 379-6279 View (205) 379-6279
Photo of Rokoyia Roper-Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Rokoyia Roper-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36601
Solution focused therapy, CBT, EMDR ,Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing are interventions that we utilize to to help clients achieve a higher quality of life according to their perceive lens.
Life is full of unpredictable twist and turns and can leave us emotionally paralyzed, overwhelmed or even surface as health issues. The stressors of life and no outlet can exacerbate these feelings and present as anger, depression and hoplessness. Deep down, if you have ever wondered if there is more to life, than what you are currently experiencing, and you are ready to take the next steps towards “your healing journey”, SafeSpace MHCS is for you.
Solution focused therapy, CBT, EMDR ,Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing are interventions that we utilize to to help clients achieve a higher quality of life according to their perceive lens.
Life is full of unpredictable twist and turns and can leave us emotionally paralyzed, overwhelmed or even surface as health issues. The stressors of life and no outlet can exacerbate these feelings and present as anger, depression and hoplessness. Deep down, if you have ever wondered if there is more to life, than what you are currently experiencing, and you are ready to take the next steps towards “your healing journey”, SafeSpace MHCS is for you.
(509) 553-5433 View (509) 553-5433
Photo of Mindful Acceptance Therapies, LLC, Psychologist in Alabama
Mindful Acceptance Therapies, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Schmidt has experience using Telehealth Therapies including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness for a wide range of psychopathology and adjustment issues.
Tired of feeling tired, anxious, worrying constantly about things you know you "shouldn't" be worried about, or feeling like your emotions are out of control at times? Maybe you just want to be able to move past something that happened, something horrible, but you know that trying to avoid it hasn't worked? Licensed in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, Dr. Schmidt is dedicated to meeting you where you are and challenging you to explore new possibilities, healing, and life in recovery. From the comfort of your own home, Telehealth Therapy is available for adults with addiction, anxiety, trauma, mood & personality disorders.
Schmidt has experience using Telehealth Therapies including Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness for a wide range of psychopathology and adjustment issues.
Tired of feeling tired, anxious, worrying constantly about things you know you "shouldn't" be worried about, or feeling like your emotions are out of control at times? Maybe you just want to be able to move past something that happened, something horrible, but you know that trying to avoid it hasn't worked? Licensed in Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi, Dr. Schmidt is dedicated to meeting you where you are and challenging you to explore new possibilities, healing, and life in recovery. From the comfort of your own home, Telehealth Therapy is available for adults with addiction, anxiety, trauma, mood & personality disorders.
(762) 583-8531 View (762) 583-8531
Photo of Cheri Lynn Flow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Cheri Lynn Flow
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Life is not always easy. Anxiety, depression, addiction, conflict, major life changes such as the death of a loved one, entering college, or divorce, etc., and every day stressors can result in loneliness, anger, compulsiveness, and a feeling of hopelessness. However, therapeutic interventions provided in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect allows individuals to develop new ways to overcome and/or cope with life’s challenges. I am eager to listen, help you gain insight, provide resources, and share tools that can help you transition to a life that aligns with your personal values and goals.
Life is not always easy. Anxiety, depression, addiction, conflict, major life changes such as the death of a loved one, entering college, or divorce, etc., and every day stressors can result in loneliness, anger, compulsiveness, and a feeling of hopelessness. However, therapeutic interventions provided in an atmosphere of acceptance and respect allows individuals to develop new ways to overcome and/or cope with life’s challenges. I am eager to listen, help you gain insight, provide resources, and share tools that can help you transition to a life that aligns with your personal values and goals.
(205) 619-6397 x8 View (205) 619-6397 x8
Photo of Vallis Mental Health in Alabama
Vallis Mental Health
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
The mission of Vallis Mental Health is for our therapists to offer services that assist individuals to identify concerns and achieve goals by utilizing a philosophy of compassion, respect, and acceptance. Vallis Mental Health strives to implement an inclusive approach to any individual seeking support by promoting open-mindedness and by consigning value to each individual seeking assistance. All psychological and emotional presentations will be regarded with the utmost clinical services to guarantee patients reach his or her fullest potential and purpose.
The mission of Vallis Mental Health is for our therapists to offer services that assist individuals to identify concerns and achieve goals by utilizing a philosophy of compassion, respect, and acceptance. Vallis Mental Health strives to implement an inclusive approach to any individual seeking support by promoting open-mindedness and by consigning value to each individual seeking assistance. All psychological and emotional presentations will be regarded with the utmost clinical services to guarantee patients reach his or her fullest potential and purpose.
(256) 695-1631 View (256) 695-1631
Photo of Erica Wilbanks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Erica Wilbanks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35244
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
Are you ready for change? Austrian psychiatrist and psychotherapist, Viktor Frankl stated “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves”. I have built most of my work around studying trauma and the effects it has on a human. Trauma defined is an event or circumstance that is beyond a person's ability to cope properly. Many symptoms like anxiety, depression, dissociation, fatigue, and guilt follow trauma. Trauma is scary and I do not believe we were meant to do life alone. I offer to serve as someone who can collaboratively walk through the trauma with you.
(205) 883-8517 View (205) 883-8517
Photo of Shari Pope-Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Shari Pope-Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35801
Life can be full of challenges that may deprive you of your serenity. Are you in need of relief from emotions or relationships that are intense or emotionally painful? Maybe you're constantly in disagreement with your partner, and can't figure out why. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult memories, disordered eating, or dealing with the impact of a challenging past? Are you in recovery and finding it hard to navigate the challenges of early sobriety, like guilt and shame, or the pressured fear of letting others down? Whatever your stressors, you too can experience peace and live a productive life.
Life can be full of challenges that may deprive you of your serenity. Are you in need of relief from emotions or relationships that are intense or emotionally painful? Maybe you're constantly in disagreement with your partner, and can't figure out why. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, difficult memories, disordered eating, or dealing with the impact of a challenging past? Are you in recovery and finding it hard to navigate the challenges of early sobriety, like guilt and shame, or the pressured fear of letting others down? Whatever your stressors, you too can experience peace and live a productive life.
(256) 887-4448 View (256) 887-4448
Photo of Amy Hutto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Amy Hutto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Mountain Brook, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Life can be hard, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Every season of life brings with it a mixture of joy and pain as well as unique challenges and uncharted emotions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, unequipped or just in need of support and acceptance in a non-judgmental environment, you have come to the right place. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment in which you feel understood, respected and valued provides the best place for you to receive objective feedback to move toward growth. My counseling style is engaging, warm and client-focused with an approach that combines CBT and solution-focused therapy.
Life can be hard, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Every season of life brings with it a mixture of joy and pain as well as unique challenges and uncharted emotions. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, unequipped or just in need of support and acceptance in a non-judgmental environment, you have come to the right place. I believe a safe and comfortable therapy environment in which you feel understood, respected and valued provides the best place for you to receive objective feedback to move toward growth. My counseling style is engaging, warm and client-focused with an approach that combines CBT and solution-focused therapy.
(205) 590-5736 View (205) 590-5736
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.