Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Katie Kershenbaum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Katie Kershenbaum
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Approaches I use include person-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-focused, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have important stories to tell. Sharing those impactful stories while working through the emotions and self beliefs tied to them can bring clarity, ease, and a sense of understanding. In my practice, I vow to hold a space of warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance for my clients to allow their stories and vulnerabilities to be heard and nurtured. I enjoy working with individuals who want to build awareness of patterns that they feel stuck in; and together, we will explore avenues of change.
Approaches I use include person-centered, psychodynamic, trauma-focused, and mindfulness.
I believe that we all have important stories to tell. Sharing those impactful stories while working through the emotions and self beliefs tied to them can bring clarity, ease, and a sense of understanding. In my practice, I vow to hold a space of warmth, empathy, and unconditional acceptance for my clients to allow their stories and vulnerabilities to be heard and nurtured. I enjoy working with individuals who want to build awareness of patterns that they feel stuck in; and together, we will explore avenues of change.
(720) 740-6745 View (720) 740-6745
Photo of Peg McCormick, Mindfulness-based Psychotherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Peg McCormick, Mindfulness-based Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, BSN, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Through deep listening, healing begins; by learning how our brain and neurological system function to protect us, we begin to understand the automatic nature of our responses; and through mindfulness and biofeedback work, we develop tools that help us regain a sense of control over how we respond when presented with adversity.
I work with men and women facing both the 'big' and the seemingly common issues of life. 'Big' life changes like a cancer diagnosis or a partner experiencing dementia; 'Life' issues like relationships, grief/loss, anxiety, anger, depression, persistent feelings of sadness, job difficulties, retirement challenges and more. Those who work with me soon come to appreciate the value of being heard; of being seen and accepted-despite the sharp edges that may appear as we try to protect ourselves from the pain the world sometimes presents us.
Through deep listening, healing begins; by learning how our brain and neurological system function to protect us, we begin to understand the automatic nature of our responses; and through mindfulness and biofeedback work, we develop tools that help us regain a sense of control over how we respond when presented with adversity.
I work with men and women facing both the 'big' and the seemingly common issues of life. 'Big' life changes like a cancer diagnosis or a partner experiencing dementia; 'Life' issues like relationships, grief/loss, anxiety, anger, depression, persistent feelings of sadness, job difficulties, retirement challenges and more. Those who work with me soon come to appreciate the value of being heard; of being seen and accepted-despite the sharp edges that may appear as we try to protect ourselves from the pain the world sometimes presents us.
(507) 873-4041 View (507) 873-4041
Photo of Erin O'Sullivan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Erin O'Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
My style includes elements of mindfulness, self-compassion, and experiential work.
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in home-based family services, community mental health and primary care medical settings. My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, trauma, developmental transitions, family transitions, attachment, and parenting support.
My style includes elements of mindfulness, self-compassion, and experiential work.
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker with over ten years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in home-based family services, community mental health and primary care medical settings. My areas of practice include anxiety, depression, trauma, developmental transitions, family transitions, attachment, and parenting support.
(720) 796-4212 View (720) 796-4212
Photo of Gioia Garden, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Gioia Garden
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I primarily draw on mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems .
I take a holistic and contextual approach to therapy. I want to know your sources of pain - but I also want to know what you value, what has shaped you, where you draw inspiration, your beliefs, and how you feel in your own body. We’ll peel back layers, we'll process distress, and we'll build practical tools to manage the challenges you're facing. Ultimately, we’ll build a more authentic, empowered sense of self. If something is no longer serving you, let’s figure out how to change it. My areas of focus include sexuality, sex, identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, and life-transitions.
I primarily draw on mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Internal Family Systems .
I take a holistic and contextual approach to therapy. I want to know your sources of pain - but I also want to know what you value, what has shaped you, where you draw inspiration, your beliefs, and how you feel in your own body. We’ll peel back layers, we'll process distress, and we'll build practical tools to manage the challenges you're facing. Ultimately, we’ll build a more authentic, empowered sense of self. If something is no longer serving you, let’s figure out how to change it. My areas of focus include sexuality, sex, identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, and life-transitions.
(720) 547-2564 View (720) 547-2564
Photo of Kristen Shader, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Kristen Shader
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
I specialize in mindfulness as a tool to build a more loving relationship with yourself.
I focus on working with clients to recognize your inherent worthiness at work and within relationships, build trust in your inner wisdom, and integrate mindfulness and spirituality into your daily life. Whether you are coming out of a painful breakup, redefining your career path, navigating how to ask for what you need in partnership, or creating a kinder relationship with yourself, our work together can help you build self-confidence, self-awareness, and stress management techniques. My ideal client is someone who wants to embody their creative side, is curious about spirituality, and longs to step into their greatness.
I specialize in mindfulness as a tool to build a more loving relationship with yourself.
I focus on working with clients to recognize your inherent worthiness at work and within relationships, build trust in your inner wisdom, and integrate mindfulness and spirituality into your daily life. Whether you are coming out of a painful breakup, redefining your career path, navigating how to ask for what you need in partnership, or creating a kinder relationship with yourself, our work together can help you build self-confidence, self-awareness, and stress management techniques. My ideal client is someone who wants to embody their creative side, is curious about spirituality, and longs to step into their greatness.
(720) 903-4630 View (720) 903-4630
Photo of Eric Hilborn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Eric Hilborn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
I also utilize gradual exposure, mindfulness, and DBT techniques in my practice.
I approach each client with a genuine investment in uncovering his or her unique qualities, strengths, and passions in order to strengthen their sense of autonomy and feelings of positive self-worth. I believe strongly in the tenets of equality, non-judgment, flexibility, and safety within the therapeutic relationship, and my primary aim is to provide an environment in which self-acceptance can be cultivated and personal growth can be nurtured. Treatment will always be a collaborative effort to discover the essential insights necessary for lasting change while simultaneously learning how to treat yourself with more leniency and personal grace.
I also utilize gradual exposure, mindfulness, and DBT techniques in my practice.
I approach each client with a genuine investment in uncovering his or her unique qualities, strengths, and passions in order to strengthen their sense of autonomy and feelings of positive self-worth. I believe strongly in the tenets of equality, non-judgment, flexibility, and safety within the therapeutic relationship, and my primary aim is to provide an environment in which self-acceptance can be cultivated and personal growth can be nurtured. Treatment will always be a collaborative effort to discover the essential insights necessary for lasting change while simultaneously learning how to treat yourself with more leniency and personal grace.
(610) 546-2772 View (610) 546-2772
Photo of Becca Reymann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Becca Reymann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is mindfulness-based, person-centered, and social justice rooted.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, emotion regulation, relationship issues, and the impact of oppressive systems. I am a somatic (body-based) therapist dedicated to creating an affirming space for you to bring your full self to therapy and be met with genuine compassion and care. I work with you from a collaborative, strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to support you in moving in the direction you hope to go in life. My approach is holistic and recognizes the importance of mind-body connection in healing and growth.
My approach is mindfulness-based, person-centered, and social justice rooted.
I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, identity exploration, emotion regulation, relationship issues, and the impact of oppressive systems. I am a somatic (body-based) therapist dedicated to creating an affirming space for you to bring your full self to therapy and be met with genuine compassion and care. I work with you from a collaborative, strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to support you in moving in the direction you hope to go in life. My approach is holistic and recognizes the importance of mind-body connection in healing and growth.
(720) 594-4127 View (720) 594-4127
Photo of Sparked Life Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Sparked Life Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
By using powerful tools from neuroscience, mindfulness, somatic psychology, parts work and coaching, we can go beyond talk therapy and really heal the mind and body.
Hi! I'm Karen Holland. I want to help you live a sparked life. This means, I want to help you get free from the past and build capacity to deal with your current struggles. I have a lot of experience working with: anxiety, breakups, grief, infidelity, relationship struggles, self esteem and self confidence, all kinds of trauma and dealing with chronic pain and illness. I know you want to heal, improve your ability to cope and find a way to enjoy life again.
By using powerful tools from neuroscience, mindfulness, somatic psychology, parts work and coaching, we can go beyond talk therapy and really heal the mind and body.
Hi! I'm Karen Holland. I want to help you live a sparked life. This means, I want to help you get free from the past and build capacity to deal with your current struggles. I have a lot of experience working with: anxiety, breakups, grief, infidelity, relationship struggles, self esteem and self confidence, all kinds of trauma and dealing with chronic pain and illness. I know you want to heal, improve your ability to cope and find a way to enjoy life again.
(720) 780-6936 View (720) 780-6936
Photo of Laurel Marco, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Laurel Marco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
I have specialized training and experience in DBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), executive functioning coaching for ADHD, and mindfulness based approaches.
One of the bravest things you can do is invest in yourself and begin therapy. If you're feeling stuck, anxious, dealing with grief/loss, struggling in relationships or have found therapy unsuccessful in the past, contact me. I've seen my clients transform, even when things seem hopeless to them. We will work together to understand your obstacles and to help you acquire the skills needed to overcome them. My approach is interactive and includes feedback, reflection, challenge, and humor. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidenced based treatments. I also offer coaching.
I have specialized training and experience in DBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), executive functioning coaching for ADHD, and mindfulness based approaches.
One of the bravest things you can do is invest in yourself and begin therapy. If you're feeling stuck, anxious, dealing with grief/loss, struggling in relationships or have found therapy unsuccessful in the past, contact me. I've seen my clients transform, even when things seem hopeless to them. We will work together to understand your obstacles and to help you acquire the skills needed to overcome them. My approach is interactive and includes feedback, reflection, challenge, and humor. I specialize in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other evidenced based treatments. I also offer coaching.
(720) 707-3502 View (720) 707-3502
Photo of Dr. Emma Durham, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Dr. Emma Durham
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
In order to achieve this, I integrate various approaches within therapy including psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based interventions.
I am a licensed psychologist offering therapy for adults and psychological assessment for people of all ages. I enjoy working with a variety of concerns and specialize in the treatment of (c)ptsd, phobias, panic, OCD, and anxiety disorders. I am passionate about working with people of diverse genders and sexualities, including those in polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships. I strive to create a space that is body, kink, and sex positive. I am able to provide assessments to receive gender affirming care, and offer testing for ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, and complex personality/mood concerns.
In order to achieve this, I integrate various approaches within therapy including psychodynamic, interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based interventions.
I am a licensed psychologist offering therapy for adults and psychological assessment for people of all ages. I enjoy working with a variety of concerns and specialize in the treatment of (c)ptsd, phobias, panic, OCD, and anxiety disorders. I am passionate about working with people of diverse genders and sexualities, including those in polyamorous/non-monogamous relationships. I strive to create a space that is body, kink, and sex positive. I am able to provide assessments to receive gender affirming care, and offer testing for ADHD, ASD, learning disabilities, and complex personality/mood concerns.
(720) 664-9201 View (720) 664-9201
Photo of Margie Kaems, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Margie Kaems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
My focus is mindfulness-based with emphasis on developing clarity and insight, while offering practical tools to move forward.
I bring 20 years of experience and specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, chronic health issues, and relationship support.
My focus is mindfulness-based with emphasis on developing clarity and insight, while offering practical tools to move forward.
I bring 20 years of experience and specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, chronic health issues, and relationship support.
(720) 457-3342 View (720) 457-3342
Photo of Zeina Toure (New Phase Navigation), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Zeina Toure (New Phase Navigation)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204  (Online Only)
Our sessions will include mindfulness exercises to help you feel empowered to create and manage changes in our lives.
I work with clients experiencing depression, transition anxiety, or increased stress and conflict in their families or personal relationships.
Our sessions will include mindfulness exercises to help you feel empowered to create and manage changes in our lives.
I work with clients experiencing depression, transition anxiety, or increased stress and conflict in their families or personal relationships.
(720) 734-9576 View (720) 734-9576
Photo of Michael Scott Bleier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Michael Scott Bleier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211  (Online Only)
The techniques I use include mindfulness, meditation/visualization, parts work and attachment along with spirituality and counseling.
Are you feeling stuck, as if life has more to offer but you aren't sure how to get there? Perhaps you're confused on what to do next? Maybe you're seeking change but unsure of how to go about it. Then I'd like to work with you! I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to grow and reach your potential. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship troubles, grief and loss. I also work with folks who want to dive into men's work(male identity and masculinity) and career/goal setting.
The techniques I use include mindfulness, meditation/visualization, parts work and attachment along with spirituality and counseling.
Are you feeling stuck, as if life has more to offer but you aren't sure how to get there? Perhaps you're confused on what to do next? Maybe you're seeking change but unsure of how to go about it. Then I'd like to work with you! I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to grow and reach your potential. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship troubles, grief and loss. I also work with folks who want to dive into men's work(male identity and masculinity) and career/goal setting.
(720) 442-9835 View (720) 442-9835
Photo of Amber Byrne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Amber Byrne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
Amber’s therapeutic approach tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing evidenced-based interventions and theoretical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including trauma-focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Amber is interested in helping you help yourself with compassion, thoughtfulness, and understanding. Amber believes that it is a privilege to accompany you on this part of your journey as you gain the strength and courage to be vulnerable and gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which will allow you the ability to both make and maintain meaningful connections with those around you. Amber’s goal is to empower clients to tap into their own potential and remove barriers that prevent them from moving forward.
Amber’s therapeutic approach tailors treatment to each individual by utilizing evidenced-based interventions and theoretical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (including trauma-focused, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Problem-Solving Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
Amber is interested in helping you help yourself with compassion, thoughtfulness, and understanding. Amber believes that it is a privilege to accompany you on this part of your journey as you gain the strength and courage to be vulnerable and gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, which will allow you the ability to both make and maintain meaningful connections with those around you. Amber’s goal is to empower clients to tap into their own potential and remove barriers that prevent them from moving forward.
(720) 804-0683 View (720) 804-0683
Photo of Liz Cason, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Liz Cason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
If you or your child/teen struggles with challenges related to Autism, ADHD, or intellectual or learning disabilities I would love to support you. Neurodiverse children often have challenges with socialization, communication, and specific interests. Through child-led play and cognitive behavioral support I work with children to strengthen skills and regulate emotions. If your child is older or in adolescence there may be additional challenges with Neurodiversity such as anxiety or depression. I utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness based therapy to support clients and help them reach their goals.
If you or your child/teen struggles with challenges related to Autism, ADHD, or intellectual or learning disabilities I would love to support you. Neurodiverse children often have challenges with socialization, communication, and specific interests. Through child-led play and cognitive behavioral support I work with children to strengthen skills and regulate emotions. If your child is older or in adolescence there may be additional challenges with Neurodiversity such as anxiety or depression. I utilize CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and mindfulness based therapy to support clients and help them reach their goals.
(720) 637-1098 View (720) 637-1098
Photo of Jonathan Mindas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Jonathan Mindas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
I am a Licensed clinical mental health and substance use therapist with 12+ years of experience in person centered therapeutic strategies, trauma based work, and cognitive behavioral mindfulness. I believe that understanding how we interact within our own environment greatly impacts our thoughts, feelings, and actions. It is a privilege to work with you as we navigate and better understand our mental health.
(720) 964-2224 View (720) 964-2224
Photo of Arnica Buckner, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Arnica Buckner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80222
My approach emphasizes the combination of acceptance and mindfulness practices with a focus on concrete behavioral change.
Do you feel like your life has become defined by your struggles with your symptoms or yourself? Do you feel far away from the life that you want? My goal is to work with you to help you let go of, move through, and transform your struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief, in order to move toward a more full, meaningful life. As part of our work together, we will create an idea of what a fulfilling life looks like for you, explore how to get there, and compassionately confront the barriers that might exist between you and that life.
My approach emphasizes the combination of acceptance and mindfulness practices with a focus on concrete behavioral change.
Do you feel like your life has become defined by your struggles with your symptoms or yourself? Do you feel far away from the life that you want? My goal is to work with you to help you let go of, move through, and transform your struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief, in order to move toward a more full, meaningful life. As part of our work together, we will create an idea of what a fulfilling life looks like for you, explore how to get there, and compassionately confront the barriers that might exist between you and that life.
(303) 747-3876 View (303) 747-3876
Photo of Julie Zhu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Julie Zhu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218  (Online Only)
I utilize a trauma-informed, solution-focused, mindfulness and somatic healing approach to therapy.
I believe that all human beings deserve to be heard, seen, understood and feel worthy of love, abundance, and joy. I offer a warm space where you may contemplate life’s deeper meaning/purpose and to process through past narratives, traumas and core belief systems that hinder your ability to create a life that you love. We start this process by building trust in our therapeutic relationship so that you can access deeper parts of yourself that yearns to be explored. I support you with finding safety within yourself, to develop tools to regulate your emotions/nervous system and to gain resiliency, self-compassion and inner strength.
I utilize a trauma-informed, solution-focused, mindfulness and somatic healing approach to therapy.
I believe that all human beings deserve to be heard, seen, understood and feel worthy of love, abundance, and joy. I offer a warm space where you may contemplate life’s deeper meaning/purpose and to process through past narratives, traumas and core belief systems that hinder your ability to create a life that you love. We start this process by building trust in our therapeutic relationship so that you can access deeper parts of yourself that yearns to be explored. I support you with finding safety within yourself, to develop tools to regulate your emotions/nervous system and to gain resiliency, self-compassion and inner strength.
(720) 704-2710 View (720) 704-2710
Photo of Charlotte Bouchard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Charlotte Bouchard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
If you're reading this, it means you're already on the path towards growth and transformation, and I'm honored to potentially be a part of that journey. In my practice, I approach therapy with a blend of mindfulness-based, somatic, and psychedelic-assisted techniques, all aimed at fostering deep healing and personal empowerment. I understand that traditional methods don't always resonate with everyone, which is why I offer a holistic approach that honors the mind, body, and spirit.
If you're reading this, it means you're already on the path towards growth and transformation, and I'm honored to potentially be a part of that journey. In my practice, I approach therapy with a blend of mindfulness-based, somatic, and psychedelic-assisted techniques, all aimed at fostering deep healing and personal empowerment. I understand that traditional methods don't always resonate with everyone, which is why I offer a holistic approach that honors the mind, body, and spirit.
(720) 277-9075 View (720) 277-9075
Photo of Trina Mauchmar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Trina Mauchmar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
So why not keep Googling for another therapist? Well not only do I have my own personal (and oh-so-fun) relationship with ADHD, but I have the expertise to offer ADHD Diagnostics, CBT Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy and…well just take a hot minute and skim my website to get more of the deets.
Therapy for the misunderstood, neurodivergent, neuro-spicy, ADHD adult humans out there: It’s an everyday occurrence involving being zoned out, scattered, overwhelmed, and all over the place. You feel like you’re regularly failing at “normal”, don’t feel good enough, and are convinced you suck at adulting. As you're racing around trying to find your keys and getting ready for the day, you give the dog your cereal and pour her cup of food in your bowl instead. Ugh. And on a more serious note - this shit is seriously impacting your work, your relationships and your quality of life.
So why not keep Googling for another therapist? Well not only do I have my own personal (and oh-so-fun) relationship with ADHD, but I have the expertise to offer ADHD Diagnostics, CBT Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy and…well just take a hot minute and skim my website to get more of the deets.
Therapy for the misunderstood, neurodivergent, neuro-spicy, ADHD adult humans out there: It’s an everyday occurrence involving being zoned out, scattered, overwhelmed, and all over the place. You feel like you’re regularly failing at “normal”, don’t feel good enough, and are convinced you suck at adulting. As you're racing around trying to find your keys and getting ready for the day, you give the dog your cereal and pour her cup of food in your bowl instead. Ugh. And on a more serious note - this shit is seriously impacting your work, your relationships and your quality of life.
(720) 784-6349 View (720) 784-6349
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.