Photo of R. Inez Salcido-Kasteiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
R. Inez Salcido-Kasteiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CMDP, CMC-1
Verified Verified
Whittier, CA 90602  (Online Only)
The following are my trainings and certifications; Certified in CPI (Crisis Prevention Interventions) - Certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapist (PCIT) - Trained MAP Therapy - Trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Trained in Mindfulness Counseling.
Note: Emails receive a quicker response. Awareness allows for change. This is a phrase I have coined that you will hear from me often. Let's discuss this topic together. When we achieve awareness within ourselves, awareness of our environment, and awareness of our patterns of thought and behaviors - that's when positive changes can start to happen. One of the most important things that therapy can help you to achieve is awareness. As your therapist, I will be an additional resource for you as you endeavor to explore the areas of your life that need your energy and attention.
The following are my trainings and certifications; Certified in CPI (Crisis Prevention Interventions) - Certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapist (PCIT) - Trained MAP Therapy - Trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Trained in Mindfulness Counseling.
Note: Emails receive a quicker response. Awareness allows for change. This is a phrase I have coined that you will hear from me often. Let's discuss this topic together. When we achieve awareness within ourselves, awareness of our environment, and awareness of our patterns of thought and behaviors - that's when positive changes can start to happen. One of the most important things that therapy can help you to achieve is awareness. As your therapist, I will be an additional resource for you as you endeavor to explore the areas of your life that need your energy and attention.
(562) 655-8523 View (562) 655-8523
Photo of Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Ask Alison Leigh, PHD, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
I utilize a broad range of techniques that I custom to every individual including Body Oriented Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Holistic Integrative Modalities.
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
I utilize a broad range of techniques that I custom to every individual including Body Oriented Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness and Holistic Integrative Modalities.
The past 22 years I've seen an eclectic group of clientele: men, women & couples of any gender/orientation who want to improve their sexual lifestyle. I've helped men overcome ED through increasing their self confidence and women who want to feel more sexually in charge. I've seen over 25,000 couples throughout every stage of their relationship whether single, dating, married, or exploring and experimenting couples to ones who are curious how to stay together and keep the chemistry strong. My clients include stay at home moms, stressed out executives, artists, entrepreneurs & communities: LGBTQ, BDSM, & Transgender Families.
(628) 226-1830 View (628) 226-1830
Photo of Elvira Kitrar, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Elvira Kitrar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
(415) 534-9620 View (415) 534-9620
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.