Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Monterey, CA

Photo of Christine Derr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Christine Derr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93942
Using cognitive behavioral skills, mindfulness practices, stress management and mind-body insights I assist clients in living more vibrant and fulfilling lives.
My focus as a therapist is solution oriented, accessing inherent strengths to face the struggles we all encounter in life with new skills and insights. I enjoy working with clients who seek greater self understanding and changes in how they relate to themselves and others.
Using cognitive behavioral skills, mindfulness practices, stress management and mind-body insights I assist clients in living more vibrant and fulfilling lives.
My focus as a therapist is solution oriented, accessing inherent strengths to face the struggles we all encounter in life with new skills and insights. I enjoy working with clients who seek greater self understanding and changes in how they relate to themselves and others.
(831) 607-8619 View (831) 607-8619
Photo of Jennifer Neilson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Monterey, CA
Jennifer Neilson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a person-centered approach, and integrate a combination of EMDR therapy, ego state therapy, guided imagery, clinical hypnosis, and mindfulness-based approaches to tailor treatment to your needs to help you manage and heal your psychological wounds.
Are you feeling fulfilled and living the life you’ve always imagined for yourself? Are your relationships with yourself and others healthy? Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, and/or overwhelming emotions? Perhaps you struggle to make sense of what you're going through. Trauma and other labels do not define you. I can help you develop and uncover resources to cope with challenges, heal what’s stuck, and live a life you love. We all have a story to tell, and I'm here to help you make sense of yours. Let's work together.
I utilize a person-centered approach, and integrate a combination of EMDR therapy, ego state therapy, guided imagery, clinical hypnosis, and mindfulness-based approaches to tailor treatment to your needs to help you manage and heal your psychological wounds.
Are you feeling fulfilled and living the life you’ve always imagined for yourself? Are your relationships with yourself and others healthy? Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, and/or overwhelming emotions? Perhaps you struggle to make sense of what you're going through. Trauma and other labels do not define you. I can help you develop and uncover resources to cope with challenges, heal what’s stuck, and live a life you love. We all have a story to tell, and I'm here to help you make sense of yours. Let's work together.
(831) 264-0845 View (831) 264-0845
Photo of Julie Hassen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Monterey, CA
Julie Hassen
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I help people resource the environment around them as a calming agent, and build a toolkit of mindfulness-based coping skills that they can take with them and use wherever they are.
As an eco- and climate-informed therapist, I combine my backgrounds in Marine Science, Environmental Psychology, and Clinical Social Work to help folks who struggle with a wide range of concerns, including climate change or eco-anxiety/grief/depression. Sometimes global issues can impact our own lives and contribute to things like anxiety and depression, and even cause trauma and physical illness. I also have expertise working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and suicidal ideation.
I help people resource the environment around them as a calming agent, and build a toolkit of mindfulness-based coping skills that they can take with them and use wherever they are.
As an eco- and climate-informed therapist, I combine my backgrounds in Marine Science, Environmental Psychology, and Clinical Social Work to help folks who struggle with a wide range of concerns, including climate change or eco-anxiety/grief/depression. Sometimes global issues can impact our own lives and contribute to things like anxiety and depression, and even cause trauma and physical illness. I also have expertise working with clients who struggle with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, grief, and suicidal ideation.
View
Photo of Sonya Ekstrom, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Monterey, CA
Sonya Ekstrom
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
Waitlist for new clients
I practice primarily IFS-informed, relational, and mindfulness-based therapy in session.
Hi – I’m so glad you’re here! By looking for a therapist, you’re already taking a big step toward change. Whether you’ve suffered trauma or abuse, have unresolved emotional pain, or are simply struggling to exist and find balance in this challenging world - therapy is a space where you can be seen, heard, and received unconditionally, facilitating the surfacing of deep truths and possibilities. I understand my role to be to assist my clients in coming back into contact with their own inner capacities for healing and growth. I welcome all sexual orientations, gender expressions, and neurotypes.
I practice primarily IFS-informed, relational, and mindfulness-based therapy in session.
Hi – I’m so glad you’re here! By looking for a therapist, you’re already taking a big step toward change. Whether you’ve suffered trauma or abuse, have unresolved emotional pain, or are simply struggling to exist and find balance in this challenging world - therapy is a space where you can be seen, heard, and received unconditionally, facilitating the surfacing of deep truths and possibilities. I understand my role to be to assist my clients in coming back into contact with their own inner capacities for healing and growth. I welcome all sexual orientations, gender expressions, and neurotypes.
(831) 218-8020 View (831) 218-8020
Photo of Zoe Avalon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Zoe Avalon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Mindfulness practices and cognitive behavioral therapy are frequently offered in therapeutic interactions with clients.
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
Mindfulness practices and cognitive behavioral therapy are frequently offered in therapeutic interactions with clients.
We live in a demanding era in which the choices and pressures of everyday life can be overwhelming, causing both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict. Therapy is the process of change, generating self-affirming thought patterns towards a hopeful and resilient future, a centered and balanced life.
(831) 593-4106 View (831) 593-4106
Photo of Paula Donnelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Paula Donnelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I tailor my treatment approach to your individual needs, drawing on a broad range of techniques and strategies, including teaching mindfulness skills.
" Welcome. You, like many of us at some point in our lives, may be dealing with an issue that you need help with at this time. Life is complicated and often stressful, and over time stress can impact our ability to cope as well as we would like. Perhaps you are struggling with changes in your mood, energy or self-esteem. Or experiencing problems in your relationships; perhaps having trouble functioning at work or in social situations. I have over 30 years experience working with individuals on these and other concerns.
I tailor my treatment approach to your individual needs, drawing on a broad range of techniques and strategies, including teaching mindfulness skills.
" Welcome. You, like many of us at some point in our lives, may be dealing with an issue that you need help with at this time. Life is complicated and often stressful, and over time stress can impact our ability to cope as well as we would like. Perhaps you are struggling with changes in your mood, energy or self-esteem. Or experiencing problems in your relationships; perhaps having trouble functioning at work or in social situations. I have over 30 years experience working with individuals on these and other concerns.
(831) 531-2204 View (831) 531-2204
Photo of Jessica Cooper, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Jessica Cooper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help clients integrate mindfulness, compassion, and nature connection meditation practices into daily life.
Therapy can be a meaningful experience that supports you in building healthy coping skills, better understanding yourself, and enacting desired life changes. I am a licensed psychologist with 16 years of experience providing individual and group psychotherapy. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy that honors your intersecting identities. I utilize a strength-based, trauma-informed lens and work to create a relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and understood in their lived experiences.
I help clients integrate mindfulness, compassion, and nature connection meditation practices into daily life.
Therapy can be a meaningful experience that supports you in building healthy coping skills, better understanding yourself, and enacting desired life changes. I am a licensed psychologist with 16 years of experience providing individual and group psychotherapy. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative. I strive to provide culturally sensitive therapy that honors your intersecting identities. I utilize a strength-based, trauma-informed lens and work to create a relationship where clients feel safe, supported, and understood in their lived experiences.
(831) 292-3965 View (831) 292-3965
Photo of Arayeh Norouzi in Monterey, CA
Arayeh Norouzi
PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Greetings with love! I'm Dr. Arayeh. I have a Ph.D. in psychology, and I am a joyful living coach in personal healing, relationships, conscious parenting, and corporate mindfulness training. I am also the bestselling author of The Art of Living in Joy: Five Practical Steps to Transform Life Challenges into Joy and Harmony, featured in the Monterey Herald Newspaper. I combine science with heart-based tools to empower you to transform anger, anxiety, grief, overwhelm, or procrastination into joy, growth, and productivity and build harmonious relationships at home and work.
Greetings with love! I'm Dr. Arayeh. I have a Ph.D. in psychology, and I am a joyful living coach in personal healing, relationships, conscious parenting, and corporate mindfulness training. I am also the bestselling author of The Art of Living in Joy: Five Practical Steps to Transform Life Challenges into Joy and Harmony, featured in the Monterey Herald Newspaper. I combine science with heart-based tools to empower you to transform anger, anxiety, grief, overwhelm, or procrastination into joy, growth, and productivity and build harmonious relationships at home and work.
(831) 228-6032 View (831) 228-6032
Photo of Robyn Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Robyn Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, she/her
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I’m highly collaborative and skilled in a variety of therapeutic healing methods like TF CBT, somatic and mindfulness interventions plus Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and FLASH technique.
Stuck in a pattern? A pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been helpful in the past, but now dull creativity and spirit, wearing down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long awaited thriving.
I’m highly collaborative and skilled in a variety of therapeutic healing methods like TF CBT, somatic and mindfulness interventions plus Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and FLASH technique.
Stuck in a pattern? A pattern that repeats itself almost magically again and again in your relationships, at work, or parenting. These patterns may have been helpful in the past, but now dull creativity and spirit, wearing down confidence, fortitude and hope. Or perhaps you are in the middle of change or in need of change painfully long overdue, but you just can’t...seem...to...fully...step...forward. I work with adults and couples to move through patterns of depression, anxiety, addiction, pain and trauma into growth and long awaited thriving.
(831) 318-5485 View (831) 318-5485
Photo of Rebecca Hardt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Rebecca Hardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940  (Online Only)
Some of my most utilized approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Family Systems Theory and Mindfulness.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
Some of my most utilized approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Family Systems Theory and Mindfulness.
I wholeheartedly believe it’s my role as a therapist to assist you in realizing, accessing and cultivating the internal and external resources that you already possess. Stress, conflict, and pain are those given aspects of life. I'll support you in healing, reconnecting and making empowering choices to achieve peace and feel more joy on a daily basis. Together, we will create a safe space for vulnerability and strength; both are needed for change. Our sessions will allow you to move through stuck points in your mind, relationships and environment. My approach is empathic, direct, emotionally supportive and solutions focused.
(831) 268-6273 View (831) 268-6273
Photo of Raquel Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Raquel Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , 69391
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I am trained and certified in CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment/interpersonal/family therapy, existential therapy, somatic therapy, IFS, and Jungian psychoanalysis.
Are you wanting to embark on a journey of self discovery and healing to move towards living your best life? I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, co-dependency, trauma (direct, vicarious, and intergenerational). I am certified in Clinical Supervision and have been providing clinical supervision since 2017. I also specialize in therapy for therapists to process vicarious trauma, transference, and provide consultation. Drawing from depth psychology and an integrative, holistic approach; I help clients in developing deep understanding of their psyche and heal wounds that block them from living their most authentic life.
I am trained and certified in CBT, DBT, Narrative therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment/interpersonal/family therapy, existential therapy, somatic therapy, IFS, and Jungian psychoanalysis.
Are you wanting to embark on a journey of self discovery and healing to move towards living your best life? I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, co-dependency, trauma (direct, vicarious, and intergenerational). I am certified in Clinical Supervision and have been providing clinical supervision since 2017. I also specialize in therapy for therapists to process vicarious trauma, transference, and provide consultation. Drawing from depth psychology and an integrative, holistic approach; I help clients in developing deep understanding of their psyche and heal wounds that block them from living their most authentic life.
(831) 208-3421 View (831) 208-3421
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
We use art, shared storytelling, mindfulness, homemade journals, conversational & formal psychological assessment - and close, accurate listening to the immediate experience of children and the adults who are meaningful in their lives to gain clear, comprehensive, contextual understanding of their issues, neurodevelopmental status, & underlying contributing factors.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
We use art, shared storytelling, mindfulness, homemade journals, conversational & formal psychological assessment - and close, accurate listening to the immediate experience of children and the adults who are meaningful in their lives to gain clear, comprehensive, contextual understanding of their issues, neurodevelopmental status, & underlying contributing factors.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
(408) 455-7347 View (408) 455-7347
Photo of Jennifer James, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Jennifer James
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Nice to meet you, I'm Jennifer James. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm passionate about helping my clients experience healing and learn the skills that they need to manage challenges in their lives and relationships. I typically work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship problems. I have expertise in working with trauma, abuse, and domestic violence as well. My therapeutic approach is somewhat eclectic. I blend pieces of person-centered therapy with self-compassion, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Nice to meet you, I'm Jennifer James. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I'm passionate about helping my clients experience healing and learn the skills that they need to manage challenges in their lives and relationships. I typically work with clients that are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship problems. I have expertise in working with trauma, abuse, and domestic violence as well. My therapeutic approach is somewhat eclectic. I blend pieces of person-centered therapy with self-compassion, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
(209) 332-4576 View (209) 332-4576
Photo of Meika Hamisch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Meika Hamisch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I specialize in mindfulness, self-compassion, empathetic distress, communication skills, and holistic approaches.
Do you want to have greater awareness, clarity, and authenticity? Do you desire positive changes in your life that fit with your deepest values and joy? I offer integrated approaches that help align the body, emotions, mind, and soul. Rather than pathologizing your symptoms, you have the potential to understand and presence what your suffering is needing by insight, mindfulness skills, and self-compassion. You can have a more profound acceptance of what is and be more of your authentic self.
I specialize in mindfulness, self-compassion, empathetic distress, communication skills, and holistic approaches.
Do you want to have greater awareness, clarity, and authenticity? Do you desire positive changes in your life that fit with your deepest values and joy? I offer integrated approaches that help align the body, emotions, mind, and soul. Rather than pathologizing your symptoms, you have the potential to understand and presence what your suffering is needing by insight, mindfulness skills, and self-compassion. You can have a more profound acceptance of what is and be more of your authentic self.
(831) 221-1351 View (831) 221-1351
Photo of Rochelle Hall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Rochelle Hall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Online therapy: While dealing with the ripple effects of COVID-10, we can meet online to enliven helpful, meaningful ways for you to deal with isolation, worry and anxiety. Many tools and practices are available to help us restore calm and equilibrium during times of stress. Therapeutic tools like mindfulness movement practices, resource-focused conversation, journaling and creative exercises are restorative — and readily teachable online. I look forward to offering innovative ways of working with you collaboratively to best meet your particular needs and preferences.
Online therapy: While dealing with the ripple effects of COVID-10, we can meet online to enliven helpful, meaningful ways for you to deal with isolation, worry and anxiety. Many tools and practices are available to help us restore calm and equilibrium during times of stress. Therapeutic tools like mindfulness movement practices, resource-focused conversation, journaling and creative exercises are restorative — and readily teachable online. I look forward to offering innovative ways of working with you collaboratively to best meet your particular needs and preferences.
(408) 214-8563 View (408) 214-8563
Photo of Rinku m Lalchandani, Psychologist in Monterey, CA
Rinku m Lalchandani
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I am a rehabilitation psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 14 years of experience working in a wide variety of clinical settings. I administer neuropsychological evaluations that assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning and I also provide therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness based techniques, and cognitive rehabilitation to assist individuals and families cope with the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral sequelae typically associated with neurological conditions and chronic health conditions.
I am a rehabilitation psychologist and neuropsychologist with over 14 years of experience working in a wide variety of clinical settings. I administer neuropsychological evaluations that assist with diagnostic clarification and treatment planning and I also provide therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness based techniques, and cognitive rehabilitation to assist individuals and families cope with the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral sequelae typically associated with neurological conditions and chronic health conditions.
(831) 264-8081 View (831) 264-8081
Photo of Leilani Jefferies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Leilani Jefferies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
We are taught to constantly go, but sometimes we need to stop, look inside, and find what's keeping us from moving forward. I offer a safe container to do this. You have the knowledge within to choose the right path. It's my job to walk with you, lighting the way. Containment and clarity: this is what I can offer to you as my client. I offer therapy in English/Spanish to individuals, couples, and families. I have advanced training in EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer parenting support.
We are taught to constantly go, but sometimes we need to stop, look inside, and find what's keeping us from moving forward. I offer a safe container to do this. You have the knowledge within to choose the right path. It's my job to walk with you, lighting the way. Containment and clarity: this is what I can offer to you as my client. I offer therapy in English/Spanish to individuals, couples, and families. I have advanced training in EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer parenting support.
(831) 900-4834 View (831) 900-4834
Photo of Olivia Fae Stadler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Olivia Fae Stadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Monterey, CA 93940
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
I warmly welcome you as you are, and hold a safe space to support your growth as your guide, witness, and companion. I enjoy working with clients who want more than traditional “talk” therapy. I offer experiential therapy, so you can go beyond cognitive understanding to having a transformative experience. I have an active style that is more than simply listening. I would describe the way I work as collaborative, curious, and challenging when it needs to be. I identify as a highly sensitive person (HSP) of gifted intelligence, both of which inform my work. My approach is mindfulness-based and somatic.
(415) 965-4452 View (415) 965-4452
Photo of Gina Carrillo-Jackman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Monterey, CA
Gina Carrillo-Jackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
I primarily draw upon Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral, and Psychodynamic therapies to work with you to be in touch with your mind-body connection, to explore and understand the impact your thoughts have upon your feelings and behavior, and to discover how your family history may influence your current relationships.
Hello and welcome! My name is Gina Carrillo-Jackman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura County providing therapy via Telehealth. I work with teens and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and school-related issues. I am a strong believer in mindfulness, being in tune with the mind-body connection, and understanding how our thoughts and feelings influence our behavior. I am most comfortable working with teens, transitional-age youth, and adults dealing with stressful life events and transitions that may cause them to experience anxiety and depression.
I primarily draw upon Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral, and Psychodynamic therapies to work with you to be in touch with your mind-body connection, to explore and understand the impact your thoughts have upon your feelings and behavior, and to discover how your family history may influence your current relationships.
Hello and welcome! My name is Gina Carrillo-Jackman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Ventura County providing therapy via Telehealth. I work with teens and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and school-related issues. I am a strong believer in mindfulness, being in tune with the mind-body connection, and understanding how our thoughts and feelings influence our behavior. I am most comfortable working with teens, transitional-age youth, and adults dealing with stressful life events and transitions that may cause them to experience anxiety and depression.
(925) 397-1998 View (925) 397-1998
Photo of Stephanie Sambrano, Marriage & Family Therapist in Monterey, CA
Stephanie Sambrano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Hi. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 17 years of experience working with couples, families, individuals, and minors. As an experienced therapist, I know a lot about practicing mindfulness, exploring your dreams and thoughts, and developing new ways of coping creatively. Your journey matters!
Hi. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 17 years of experience working with couples, families, individuals, and minors. As an experienced therapist, I know a lot about practicing mindfulness, exploring your dreams and thoughts, and developing new ways of coping creatively. Your journey matters!
(909) 637-3237 View (909) 637-3237
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.