Photo of Todd Randall, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Todd Randall
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
After 7 years of training, practice, and providing clinical supervision at the Capital Institute for Cognitive Therapy, I've transitioned to private practice in Woodley Park. I have significant training in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-based, and Metacognitive approaches. These are the main schools in the field, and combined allow me to offer both practical techniques for troublesome thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; as well as help you see subtleties in yourself that likely influence how and why you may be stuck.
After 7 years of training, practice, and providing clinical supervision at the Capital Institute for Cognitive Therapy, I've transitioned to private practice in Woodley Park. I have significant training in Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-based, and Metacognitive approaches. These are the main schools in the field, and combined allow me to offer both practical techniques for troublesome thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; as well as help you see subtleties in yourself that likely influence how and why you may be stuck.
(202) 760-4893 View (202) 760-4893
Photo of Amy Oberson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Amy Oberson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
Waitlist for new clients
Our mind and body are connected and I teach mindfulness strategies that help improve mood and decrease stress.
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
Our mind and body are connected and I teach mindfulness strategies that help improve mood and decrease stress.
I currently have limited weekday openings. I am licensed in both DC and MD and have experience working with adults, young adults, and adolescents. My counseling approach is warm, empathetic, and person-centered as I am passionate about meeting each client where they are and then collectively work to establish goals to achieve personal healing and growth. I also have experience working with women's health issues, depression, anxiety, grief and trauma. I offer support to adults as they navigate familial changes and life transitions.
View
Photo of Leonard Brisendine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Leonard Brisendine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Lenny Brisendine. I am credentialed in DC and Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My professional orientation is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I offer online therapy and flexible scheduling including Saturday hours, plus an initial free 15 minute video session so you can decide if we are a good match.
Hello. My name is Lenny Brisendine. I am credentialed in DC and Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My professional orientation is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I offer online therapy and flexible scheduling including Saturday hours, plus an initial free 15 minute video session so you can decide if we are a good match.
(202) 991-3549 View (202) 991-3549
Photo of Leonard Brisendine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Leonard Brisendine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Lenny Brisendine. I am credentialed in DC and Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My professional orientation is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I offer online therapy and flexible scheduling including Saturday hours, plus an initial free 15 minute video session so you can decide if we are a good match.
Hello. My name is Lenny Brisendine. I am credentialed in DC and Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. My professional orientation is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I offer online therapy and flexible scheduling including Saturday hours, plus an initial free 15 minute video session so you can decide if we are a good match.
(571) 946-4316 View (571) 946-4316
Photo of Modyfi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Modyfi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Our holistic and integrative approach to care is person-centered, incorporating CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing methods.
Welcome to Modyfi! We're an all virtual practice that offers appointments exclusively via Telehealth. Our providers accept most major insurances, and are welcoming new patients with appointments often available in days, not weeks or months. Our highest priority is to cultivate a space for you to feel safe, supported, and unconditionally accepted so that we can better understand the interplay between our thought life, emotional experiences, and behavioral reactions.
Our holistic and integrative approach to care is person-centered, incorporating CBT, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing methods.
Welcome to Modyfi! We're an all virtual practice that offers appointments exclusively via Telehealth. Our providers accept most major insurances, and are welcoming new patients with appointments often available in days, not weeks or months. Our highest priority is to cultivate a space for you to feel safe, supported, and unconditionally accepted so that we can better understand the interplay between our thought life, emotional experiences, and behavioral reactions.
(240) 213-9075 View (240) 213-9075
Photo of Calvin Rabago, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Calvin Rabago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20422  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate psychotherapist with an integrative approach, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy.
You deserve the opportunity to overcome persistent challenges - feeling stuck, unable to change old habits, wrestling with depression and anxiety, trouble maintaining healthy relationships. Find your path to empowerment and let go of self-sabotaging tendencies by addressing past experiences and traumas that formed a negative self-image. While it's not your fault, it's within your power to heal these wounds, paving the way for a fulfilling life. Likewise, you can enhance your personal relationships by understanding how present behaviors are shaped by the past and learning strategies for positive change.
I am a compassionate psychotherapist with an integrative approach, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy.
You deserve the opportunity to overcome persistent challenges - feeling stuck, unable to change old habits, wrestling with depression and anxiety, trouble maintaining healthy relationships. Find your path to empowerment and let go of self-sabotaging tendencies by addressing past experiences and traumas that formed a negative self-image. While it's not your fault, it's within your power to heal these wounds, paving the way for a fulfilling life. Likewise, you can enhance your personal relationships by understanding how present behaviors are shaped by the past and learning strategies for positive change.
(703) 691-5209 View (703) 691-5209
Photo of Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sound Baths, Anger Management, Self-Esteem, Grief, Mindfulness/Contemplative Practices, Addiction and co-occurring disorders.
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sound Baths, Anger Management, Self-Esteem, Grief, Mindfulness/Contemplative Practices, Addiction and co-occurring disorders.
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
(410) 376-8209 View (410) 376-8209
Photo of Aaron Pearl, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Aaron Pearl
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work with individuals, couples, and groups that are faced with a variety of challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict and dissatisfaction, infidelity, impulse control, and adjustment issues. I am trained and use ACT principles when working with my clients. ACT is a mindfulness, acceptance, and commitment approach to psychotherapy. Working together, I help clients slow down the thought process so they can thoughtfully respond to difficult thoughts and emotions. This allows you to take value-based behavioral action as opposed to having emotional, automatic reactions.
I work with individuals, couples, and groups that are faced with a variety of challenges, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict and dissatisfaction, infidelity, impulse control, and adjustment issues. I am trained and use ACT principles when working with my clients. ACT is a mindfulness, acceptance, and commitment approach to psychotherapy. Working together, I help clients slow down the thought process so they can thoughtfully respond to difficult thoughts and emotions. This allows you to take value-based behavioral action as opposed to having emotional, automatic reactions.
(301) 265-2821 View (301) 265-2821
Photo of Pat Webbink, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Pat Webbink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
With 50 years of clinical experience, a Duke U. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, I am an empathic, results-oriented psychologist. My specialties: relationships, anxiety, depression, stress reduction, intimacy, trauma & abuse. I work with adults, adolescents, & children in individual, couple, family & group therapy. I counsel in Spanish, French & Japanese. I've authored 4 books on intimacy & relationships & hold FREE monthly Zoom workshops on Mindfulness, Creative Movement & Relationships using guided imagery & music. My licensed associates and I serve MD, D.C. & VA. My interactive audio flyer is available at AacCounseling.com. Call me.
(240) 435-4843 View (240) 435-4843
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Washington, DC
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya applies the following types of therapy:  Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy (MBSR) .
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya applies the following types of therapy:  Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Therapy (MBSR) .
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Renu K. Aldrich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Renu K. Aldrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
Under an integrative umbrella, I employ methods including mindfulness, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and experiential and expressive arts therapies.
Therapy can benefit you wherever you are in life, whether it's in the midst of a crisis, if you're feeling distant from a partner or your parents, or if you simply want to know yourself better. Providing therapy is a sacred calling for me, and I am honored to empower either individuals, couples, families, or groups to reach goals or explore the unknown. I use a systemic approach to help clients in the context of environments and identities. Together, we can grow and become the authors of our own stories. By accepting who we are and our imperfections, we increase our ability to love ourselves and connect more deeply with others.
(571) 570-3897 View (571) 570-3897
Photo of Georgina S Arhin, Counselor in Washington, DC
Georgina S Arhin
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20057  (Online Only)
I employ cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, short-term solution focus, supportive reflection, dialectical behavior, grief and loss therapy, and mindfulness models in my practice.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
I employ cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, short-term solution focus, supportive reflection, dialectical behavior, grief and loss therapy, and mindfulness models in my practice.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
(240) 713-5995 View (240) 713-5995
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of Damian McBeth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Damian McBeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHP
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
Results-oriented, compassionate and "Relentless work ethic" are words patients have described me. I take a "whatever it takes empathic attitude" serving patients suffering from depression, psychosis, eating disorders, substance abuse disorders, and family dysfunction. I spent my most of my career practicing in DC's Ward 7 and Ward 8 servicing DC's most vulnerable lower income populations. I have experience with The Department of Behavior Health as a crisis supervisor, ACT clinical supervisor and a Child/Adult psychotherapist.
(202) 972-7938 View (202) 972-7938
Photo of Christopher Barry Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Christopher Barry Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
*Now Accepting Tele-therapy Clients* Do you find yourself feeling sad, anxious, unhappy with life circumstances? Are you having relationship difficulties, feel stress from work, or have a child experiencing difficulties? I offer comprehensive assistance to change and work through many of life's challenges. If you find yourself suffering from any of these situations, or if you do not feel quite like yourself, let us help you begin on the road to improvement by addressing patient concerns, including but not limited to the following:
(202) 759-4221 View (202) 759-4221
Photo of Tim Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20015  (Online Only)
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
(202) 951-8669 View (202) 951-8669
Photo of Graham Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Graham Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Prior to opening my private practice in Georgetown, I worked at the Kolmac Clinic on K Street in Washington, DC, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. I work with clients to improve self-esteem, identify what it is that they really want in their lives and help them to improve the overall quality of their lives and thrive more fully.
Prior to opening my private practice in Georgetown, I worked at the Kolmac Clinic on K Street in Washington, DC, an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. I work with clients to improve self-esteem, identify what it is that they really want in their lives and help them to improve the overall quality of their lives and thrive more fully.
(202) 499-4548 View (202) 499-4548
Photo of Sara Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sara Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Aloha! It is my desire to create a safe, warm & accepting space for all the individuals I work with. I believe that feelings of belonging & acceptance are the foundation of the growth we can achieve together. Understanding my clients' problems from a holistic perspective is important to me. As you share your unique story it is my goal to paint a more detailed picture of your problem within the context it has evolved & been maintained. My belief is that all problems make sense in the context of our unique experiences & relationships. My desire is to validate these experiences & help you work towards lasting healing.
Aloha! It is my desire to create a safe, warm & accepting space for all the individuals I work with. I believe that feelings of belonging & acceptance are the foundation of the growth we can achieve together. Understanding my clients' problems from a holistic perspective is important to me. As you share your unique story it is my goal to paint a more detailed picture of your problem within the context it has evolved & been maintained. My belief is that all problems make sense in the context of our unique experiences & relationships. My desire is to validate these experiences & help you work towards lasting healing.
(808) 784-7057 View (808) 784-7057
Photo of Unconventional Minds Coaching in Washington, DC
Unconventional Minds Coaching
MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
Hi! I'm Sam, a Professional Coach who works with neurodivergent adults (ADHD, Autistic, AuDHD, OCD) who have unconventional lives to understand and embrace their unique neurotypes, so they can effectively minimize stress, overcome challenges, and improve their quality of life. Together, we can co-create a supportive, non-judgmental, and effective coaching partnership through which you will learn to fully utilize your strengths, understand and embrace your full humanity, and cultivate practices that are key to defining and achieving your own version of success. Please note: I am a qualified coach, NOT a psychotherapist or counselor.
(347) 572-7803 View (347) 572-7803
Photo of Roland Scheppske, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Roland Scheppske
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
With over 12 years in the medical field, Roland utilizes the relationship between the client and therapist to facilitate forward growth and healing, with the goal of becoming the best version of themselves. Roland uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including experiential and reality-based approaches to highlight implementing changes in the here & now. As a big proponent of creating connections, Roland makes the therapy setting conversational and comfortable to promote safety and collaboration in the therapeutic space.
(571) 470-5428 View (571) 470-5428
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.