Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Victoria Sherk Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Victoria Sherk Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I utilize different approaches depending on the needs of my clients, though I focus particularly on evidence-based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness.
The decision to seek therapy is a powerful act of self-care. Whether you are looking to make a major life change, improve a relationship, or address significant mental health struggles, I am here to listen, provide support and offer honest feedback. I like people. I want to hear about your experiences, challenges and successes. Reliability, honesty and transparency are key qualities of my work. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership. You are the expert on your life. I bring my 18 years of professional experience to assist you in making the change you are seeking.
I utilize different approaches depending on the needs of my clients, though I focus particularly on evidence-based interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness.
The decision to seek therapy is a powerful act of self-care. Whether you are looking to make a major life change, improve a relationship, or address significant mental health struggles, I am here to listen, provide support and offer honest feedback. I like people. I want to hear about your experiences, challenges and successes. Reliability, honesty and transparency are key qualities of my work. The therapeutic relationship is a partnership. You are the expert on your life. I bring my 18 years of professional experience to assist you in making the change you are seeking.
(202) 929-5549 View (202) 929-5549
Photo of Ali Weisbrot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ali Weisbrot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
Whatever your reason for seeking support, you don’t have to take this journey alone. I bring a warm, compassionate and holistic treatment approach filled with humor and curiosity. At my practice, Bluestone Counseling Group, we have a passion for supporting women and families with their mental health and wellbeing throughout all of life’s transitions. We have specialized training in maternal mental health from fertility, pregnancy, postpartum through parenting challenges and relationship changes. Our approach is trauma-informed, mindfulness-based, culturally-inclusive and welcomes and affirms all identities.
Whatever your reason for seeking support, you don’t have to take this journey alone. I bring a warm, compassionate and holistic treatment approach filled with humor and curiosity. At my practice, Bluestone Counseling Group, we have a passion for supporting women and families with their mental health and wellbeing throughout all of life’s transitions. We have specialized training in maternal mental health from fertility, pregnancy, postpartum through parenting challenges and relationship changes. Our approach is trauma-informed, mindfulness-based, culturally-inclusive and welcomes and affirms all identities.
(202) 517-9826 View (202) 517-9826
Christine L. Zepka, LICSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Located at Foggy Bottom Metro and George Washington University we provide interventions utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy (DBT and CPT), Mindfulness Techniques, Integrative Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Conflict Resolution Therapy, Recovery Model for Substance Abuse, Strength Based Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy (short term).
Strengthen your quality of life. Emotional and psychological stress can create significant difficulties in reaching one's life goals. As a licensed independent clinical social worker, I provide intensive psychotherapy for adults, couples, college students, veterans and adolescents. My clinical focus involves working collaboratively to identify and treat painful symptoms that can lead to struggles in work, school and relationships.
Located at Foggy Bottom Metro and George Washington University we provide interventions utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy (DBT and CPT), Mindfulness Techniques, Integrative Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Conflict Resolution Therapy, Recovery Model for Substance Abuse, Strength Based Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy (short term).
Strengthen your quality of life. Emotional and psychological stress can create significant difficulties in reaching one's life goals. As a licensed independent clinical social worker, I provide intensive psychotherapy for adults, couples, college students, veterans and adolescents. My clinical focus involves working collaboratively to identify and treat painful symptoms that can lead to struggles in work, school and relationships.
(202) 751-4299 View (202) 751-4299
Photo of Mina Barimany, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Mina Barimany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
Barimany's approach integrates mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and modern research in neuropsychology to re-balance asymmetries in human development and expand the capacity to apply novel approaches to recurring problems.
Unlike many professionals who treat a range of issues, Dr. Barimany has cultivated a specialization in adult cognitive development. Human beings have fundamental needs for intra-personal and inter-personal happiness: the ability to perceive reality accurately, to know oneself, be in fulfilling relationships, and make healthy decisions. Dr. Barimany's work focuses on helping individuals, couples, and mental health professionals develop parts of the mind that are ripe for growth to improve the quality of life, cultivate professional growth, and find intrinsic freedom and happiness.
Barimany's approach integrates mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and modern research in neuropsychology to re-balance asymmetries in human development and expand the capacity to apply novel approaches to recurring problems.
Unlike many professionals who treat a range of issues, Dr. Barimany has cultivated a specialization in adult cognitive development. Human beings have fundamental needs for intra-personal and inter-personal happiness: the ability to perceive reality accurately, to know oneself, be in fulfilling relationships, and make healthy decisions. Dr. Barimany's work focuses on helping individuals, couples, and mental health professionals develop parts of the mind that are ripe for growth to improve the quality of life, cultivate professional growth, and find intrinsic freedom and happiness.
(202) 838-4017 x1 View (202) 838-4017 x1
Photo of Charrise Hipol, Psy.D., PLLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Charrise Hipol, Psy.D., PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, multicultural, and mindfulness theories guide my work.
There are circumstances in life that can lead people to feel anxious, depressed, stuck, or otherwise emotionally troubled. You may find yourself in patterns of unhealthy behaviors, thoughts or relationships that you can't seem to change.
Psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, multicultural, and mindfulness theories guide my work.
There are circumstances in life that can lead people to feel anxious, depressed, stuck, or otherwise emotionally troubled. You may find yourself in patterns of unhealthy behaviors, thoughts or relationships that you can't seem to change.
(720) 907-1063 View (720) 907-1063
Photo of Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Nancy F. Hensler, PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
With the therapy relationship as the foundation for our work, I draw upon training in a broad array of treatment interventions, including cognitive-behavioral tools, mindfulness, sensorimotor (mind-body) psychotherapy, and hypnosis.
Through 25 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Trauma & Abuse, Sexual & Relationship Violence, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life events and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
With the therapy relationship as the foundation for our work, I draw upon training in a broad array of treatment interventions, including cognitive-behavioral tools, mindfulness, sensorimotor (mind-body) psychotherapy, and hypnosis.
Through 25 years' experience in university, hospital and outpatient settings, I have developed specializations in Trauma & Abuse, Sexual & Relationship Violence, Women's Empowerment, Mindful Living, & the College Experience. Trained by a pioneer in complex trauma treatment, I assist survivors regain their sense of security and self. My past career research informs my continuing passion for mentoring women in their multiple roles and across their lifespans. I help individuals, couples & groups manage stress, anxiety, depression, and pain; navigate major life events and losses; & repair/strengthen their relationships.
(202) 760-4678 View (202) 760-4678
Photo of Karin S Tovar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Karin S Tovar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also use a lot of somatic techniques, brainspotting, EMDR, and mindfulness meditation to better access the connection between mind and body, resulting in improved mental and physical well-being.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also use a lot of somatic techniques, brainspotting, EMDR, and mindfulness meditation to better access the connection between mind and body, resulting in improved mental and physical well-being.
It may be that life deals us the unexpected, or perhaps things just slowly begin to feel “off”—whatever the case may be, we can find growth and healing by exploring the ways our past affects our present. Scary? Definitely! But accessing these versions of ourselves that have been dormant is what helps us shift from surviving to thriving. Whether you’ve been experiencing anxiety, depression, life transition, trauma, or feeling burned out, I can help become a truer version of yourself. For your convenience, I offer online appointments for clients located in DC and MD, or in person appointments at my office in Farragut Square, DC.
(202) 968-2649 View (202) 968-2649
Photo of Washington Nutrition and Counseling Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Washington Nutrition and Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
My approach to counseling is to create a safe space for growth and healing. I believe that growth and healing happen when people recognize that they have a circle of care (including clinicians) that show them empathy and support, that they can rely on and recognize that they have their best interests in mind. My therapeutic techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy to create an atmosphere where the client recognizes that they are in control of their therapeutic experience.
My approach to counseling is to create a safe space for growth and healing. I believe that growth and healing happen when people recognize that they have a circle of care (including clinicians) that show them empathy and support, that they can rely on and recognize that they have their best interests in mind. My therapeutic techniques include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy to create an atmosphere where the client recognizes that they are in control of their therapeutic experience.
(202) 759-2780 View (202) 759-2780
Photo of Shally Vaid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Shally Vaid
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I operate from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, using my years of experience to incorporate mindfulness, person-centered therapies, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, and solution-focused work to craft an approach tailored to your needs, Together, I believe we can rediscover your strength, hope, and confidence.
I strive to create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for clients who feel burdened with hard feelings. You may be navigating a period of anxiety or depression, struggling with a difficult phase of life, or are unsure how to move beyond past experiences. We will create a collaborative partnership where we can work through these questions together, empowering you to find a path back to joy and calm in your life. I work with college students, adults, am Gottman-trained in couples work, and have particular expertise with clients experiencing infertility, adjusting to parenthood or navigating the joys and challenges of older kids.
I operate from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, using my years of experience to incorporate mindfulness, person-centered therapies, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, and solution-focused work to craft an approach tailored to your needs, Together, I believe we can rediscover your strength, hope, and confidence.
I strive to create a safe, supportive, non-judgmental space for clients who feel burdened with hard feelings. You may be navigating a period of anxiety or depression, struggling with a difficult phase of life, or are unsure how to move beyond past experiences. We will create a collaborative partnership where we can work through these questions together, empowering you to find a path back to joy and calm in your life. I work with college students, adults, am Gottman-trained in couples work, and have particular expertise with clients experiencing infertility, adjusting to parenthood or navigating the joys and challenges of older kids.
(202) 760-2749 View (202) 760-2749
Photo of Allison Miller, Psychological Associate in Washington, DC
Allison Miller
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
There are many challenges we face throughout life and I aim to create a safe, supportive space to process and find solutions for them together. I aim to use empirically supported methods for treatment. I take an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from my training in Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and relational approaches. I also incorporate methods from Acceptance and Commitment therapy and mindfulness. I work with adults; individuals and couples.
There are many challenges we face throughout life and I aim to create a safe, supportive space to process and find solutions for them together. I aim to use empirically supported methods for treatment. I take an integrated approach to therapy, drawing from my training in Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and relational approaches. I also incorporate methods from Acceptance and Commitment therapy and mindfulness. I work with adults; individuals and couples.
(434) 215-0225 View (434) 215-0225
Photo of Ean Lischin-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ean Lischin-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I have over fifteen years of psychotherapy experience working with individuals, couples and families utilizing a combination of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Psychodynamic and Relational techniques among other modalities.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, holistic and individualized, meeting you where you are. I am passionate about the process of therapy and will help you to develop insight, identify and reach your goals and enhance wellness. I specialize in treating couples and individuals coping with mental health and relationship concerns. My aim is to engage in collaboration to illuminate, foster insight and clarify what is within as well as the path ahead.
I have over fifteen years of psychotherapy experience working with individuals, couples and families utilizing a combination of DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Psychodynamic and Relational techniques among other modalities.
My approach to therapy is compassionate, collaborative, holistic and individualized, meeting you where you are. I am passionate about the process of therapy and will help you to develop insight, identify and reach your goals and enhance wellness. I specialize in treating couples and individuals coping with mental health and relationship concerns. My aim is to engage in collaboration to illuminate, foster insight and clarify what is within as well as the path ahead.
(202) 960-4579 View (202) 960-4579
Photo of Tim Pineau, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Tim Pineau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
Finally, I have a specialty teaching mindfulness, with a focus on mindfulness for athletes.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide individual therapy to adolescent and adult clients looking to better understand themselves and their relationships. People often seek therapy to address symptoms or problems that they want to change, but ironically, this felt need for things to be different can often create more stress. I believe people are more than their problems, and so my aim is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore the connections between your past experience, relational patterns, and current behaviors to help you a achieve a meaningful sense of self-awareness, thereby giving you more freedom and choice.
Finally, I have a specialty teaching mindfulness, with a focus on mindfulness for athletes.
As a licensed psychologist, I provide individual therapy to adolescent and adult clients looking to better understand themselves and their relationships. People often seek therapy to address symptoms or problems that they want to change, but ironically, this felt need for things to be different can often create more stress. I believe people are more than their problems, and so my aim is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore the connections between your past experience, relational patterns, and current behaviors to help you a achieve a meaningful sense of self-awareness, thereby giving you more freedom and choice.
(202) 858-0656 View (202) 858-0656
Photo of Carlos Durana Ph.D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Carlos Durana Ph.D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
My expertise in body-mind and mindfulness approaches can address the connection between problems, stresses and health concerns.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
My expertise in body-mind and mindfulness approaches can address the connection between problems, stresses and health concerns.
I love helping individuals and couples achieve their goals and aspirations. I offer a caring, safe, and healing environment that allows clients the opportunity to explore, experience, work through problems, and create solutions that expand their potential for growth and wellness. As a proponent of integrative and holistic therapy that honors the mind-body connection and its impact on well-being, health, and happiness, I attend to the whole person, not just a set of symptoms or problems. I emphasize teaching skills that develop inner resources for successful coping in life. I use a variety of methods, but the method has to meet your needs.
(202) 849-7840 View (202) 849-7840
Photo of Nakia Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nakia Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011
My name is Nakia Watson. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have been working in the field for over a decade. Clients that I typically work with are those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, work conflict, relationship/family conflict, or life transitions. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my work with clients. I am a firm believer in the potential of mindfulness methods; grounding, deep breathing, and guided meditation just to name a few. I utilizes empathy, collaboration, and active listening to empower the individuals I work with.
My name is Nakia Watson. I am a licensed clinical social worker and have been working in the field for over a decade. Clients that I typically work with are those who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, work conflict, relationship/family conflict, or life transitions. I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my work with clients. I am a firm believer in the potential of mindfulness methods; grounding, deep breathing, and guided meditation just to name a few. I utilizes empathy, collaboration, and active listening to empower the individuals I work with.
(866) 953-3021 View (866) 953-3021
Photo of Judson Richardson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Judson Richardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CBIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Depending on your need, we may look at thoughts, acceptance, mindfulness, self-care, boundaries, or past wounds.
Are you anxious that you might not be able to handle this big life challenge with your physical & emotional wellbeing, authenticity & integrity, and values & serenity still intact? Are you hopeful that maybe, just maybe, you can come out on the other side of it with new growth & wisdom? Are you struggling to navigate life and find fulfillment, love, & belonging as someone who's “different”, even from some of the people & communities you love most? Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, unseen, unheard, or unfulfilled in your relationships? Do you wrestle with inner whispers of shame, and wonder “Am I enough? Am I good enough?"
Depending on your need, we may look at thoughts, acceptance, mindfulness, self-care, boundaries, or past wounds.
Are you anxious that you might not be able to handle this big life challenge with your physical & emotional wellbeing, authenticity & integrity, and values & serenity still intact? Are you hopeful that maybe, just maybe, you can come out on the other side of it with new growth & wisdom? Are you struggling to navigate life and find fulfillment, love, & belonging as someone who's “different”, even from some of the people & communities you love most? Are you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, unseen, unheard, or unfulfilled in your relationships? Do you wrestle with inner whispers of shame, and wonder “Am I enough? Am I good enough?"
(202) 968-3279 View (202) 968-3279
Photo of Elizabeth Tschoegl, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Elizabeth Tschoegl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I integrate evidence-based cognitive and behavioral techniques (CBT) and mind-body approaches (EMDR, Brainspotting, and mindfulness) to address not only symptoms but also the core of why this event stayed with you.
Finding a therapist can be tough. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed. Maybe life has thrown more at you than you think you can handle, or your usual coping strategies are failing. Using humor and a collaborative approach, we can tackle these challenges together. Drawing on your own innate resilience and capacity to change, I hope to give confidence to the belief that change is possible and that you can feel better.
I integrate evidence-based cognitive and behavioral techniques (CBT) and mind-body approaches (EMDR, Brainspotting, and mindfulness) to address not only symptoms but also the core of why this event stayed with you.
Finding a therapist can be tough. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed. Maybe life has thrown more at you than you think you can handle, or your usual coping strategies are failing. Using humor and a collaborative approach, we can tackle these challenges together. Drawing on your own innate resilience and capacity to change, I hope to give confidence to the belief that change is possible and that you can feel better.
(202) 618-3044 View (202) 618-3044
Photo of Stephen Holland, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Stephen Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
All of our therapists have advanced training in CBT, including mindfulness and acceptance based approaches.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
All of our therapists have advanced training in CBT, including mindfulness and acceptance based approaches.
I am Founder and Director of the Capital Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since 2003, the Institute has been a leading provider of research-proven treatments and compassionate care. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for a number of problems, including: depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), hoarding, phobias, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, insomnia, chronic pain, personality disorders, and relationship problems. Studies find most patients in CBT have significant reduction in symptoms and distress.
(202) 759-2884 View (202) 759-2884
Photo of Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Have you experienced a recent or past traumatic event? Do you have trouble expressing how you feel? I have advanced training in working with survivors of trauma, and extensive experience working with families who struggle to communicate effectively. I use the therapeutic relationship to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to set goals and move forward. Primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness techniques, individuals are able to heal from past experiences and to lead satisfying and productive lives.
Have you experienced a recent or past traumatic event? Do you have trouble expressing how you feel? I have advanced training in working with survivors of trauma, and extensive experience working with families who struggle to communicate effectively. I use the therapeutic relationship to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to set goals and move forward. Primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness techniques, individuals are able to heal from past experiences and to lead satisfying and productive lives.
(202) 915-3349 x1 View (202) 915-3349 x1
Photo of Phil Rizzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Phil Rizzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
Using a client-centered approach, I blend mindfulness practices and cognitive-behavioral techniques to develop strategies for your growth and healing.
Join me on a personalized therapeutic journey where you’re the expert of your own lived experiences. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions in a safe, supportive space. With over ten years in mental health and three years in counseling, I integrate various therapeutic techniques to empower you and deepen your self-awareness.
Using a client-centered approach, I blend mindfulness practices and cognitive-behavioral techniques to develop strategies for your growth and healing.
Join me on a personalized therapeutic journey where you’re the expert of your own lived experiences. Together, we'll navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions in a safe, supportive space. With over ten years in mental health and three years in counseling, I integrate various therapeutic techniques to empower you and deepen your self-awareness.
(866) 684-0649 View (866) 684-0649
Photo of Laura Lokker, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Laura Lokker
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
At some point in our lives many of us will struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, relationship problems, career concerns or life transitions. If you are facing one or more of these challenges, I believe I can help. I am a licensed psychologist providing counseling and psychotherapy to adults in Washington DC. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide range of issues. Depending on your needs and goals, I integrate various therapeutic approaches and treatment models, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal and mindfulness.
At some point in our lives many of us will struggle with anxiety, depression, loss, relationship problems, career concerns or life transitions. If you are facing one or more of these challenges, I believe I can help. I am a licensed psychologist providing counseling and psychotherapy to adults in Washington DC. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide range of issues. Depending on your needs and goals, I integrate various therapeutic approaches and treatment models, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal and mindfulness.
(202) 760-2717 View (202) 760-2717
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.