Therapists in District of Columbia

Photo of Sherell Hebert -  Headway Therapist In DC, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Headway Therapist In DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who utilizes mind-body techniques (meditation, mindfulness) as well as hypnosis.
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who utilizes mind-body techniques (meditation, mindfulness) as well as hypnosis.
Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I specialize in anxiety disorders because this is an area that I know intimately. I once had really bad anxiety and panics attacks. I learned to overcome them and they are now a distant memory. I would like to show you how this can be true for you as well. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends for my DC clients. Go to the scheduling link to get started.
(281) 666-2278 View (281) 666-2278
Photo of Andromeda Peters, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andromeda Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I have a holistic and strength-based approach to healing utilizing mindfulness techniques in combination with trauma-focused healing to assist with PTSD, anxiety, and depression with brain education.
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in your emotional challenges? Managing our mental health is something we should never have to do alone. My life’s journey has led me to my passions in both the mental health and entertainment industries, allowing me to advocate for mental health resources internationally and provide therapy. I guide people to feel their power which does not lie in an ideal of perfection, but rather to find ourselves in a space where we can begin to meet ourselves where we are to heal with self-compassion. With gratitude, I am a guide to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as couples.
I have a holistic and strength-based approach to healing utilizing mindfulness techniques in combination with trauma-focused healing to assist with PTSD, anxiety, and depression with brain education.
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in your emotional challenges? Managing our mental health is something we should never have to do alone. My life’s journey has led me to my passions in both the mental health and entertainment industries, allowing me to advocate for mental health resources internationally and provide therapy. I guide people to feel their power which does not lie in an ideal of perfection, but rather to find ourselves in a space where we can begin to meet ourselves where we are to heal with self-compassion. With gratitude, I am a guide to assist individuals with depression, anxiety, and PTSD, as well as couples.
(202) 937-0786 View (202) 937-0786
Photo of Janine Donnelly, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Donnelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
My practice is guided by my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
While starting therapy may seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which I help my clients rediscover clarity and joy. I use compassion and humor to help clients move through pain and worry, and become more fully present in their lives, relationships, and community. I strive to meet my clients with empathy and authenticity, backed up by over twenty-five years of experience and a commitment to research-based methods. Being trained as a social worker means that I strive to understand the complex web of personal, relational, and systemic challenges that can impact clients' well-being.
My practice is guided by my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure/Response Prevention Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy.
While starting therapy may seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which I help my clients rediscover clarity and joy. I use compassion and humor to help clients move through pain and worry, and become more fully present in their lives, relationships, and community. I strive to meet my clients with empathy and authenticity, backed up by over twenty-five years of experience and a commitment to research-based methods. Being trained as a social worker means that I strive to understand the complex web of personal, relational, and systemic challenges that can impact clients' well-being.
(240) 232-2738 View (240) 232-2738
Photo of Ozlem Yazar, MSW, LGSW, ADS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ozlem Yazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW, ADS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I employ methods including, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based theories, Acupuncture Detoxification, and Hypnotherapy.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
I employ methods including, but not limited to, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-based theories, Acupuncture Detoxification, and Hypnotherapy.
In psychotherapy, the therapist and client commit to work together to facilitate change. My goal is to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space as we focus on issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, sexual identity/LGBTQ concerns, and traditional/non-traditional relationships. My approach to therapy is both holistic and mindful. I view the client as a whole, focusing on the need to bring the mind, body, and spirit into harmony while each element plays a role in healing and the creation of change.
(202) 838-4312 View (202) 838-4312
Photo of Michell Kothari Stanley, LICSW, CLC, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michell Kothari Stanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CLC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Many of my clients have done therapy before and want more than a therapist who can listen and validate. I offer guidance, feedback, coping tools and mindfulness practices to help clients dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationship frustrations to enhance their confidence, resilience and interpersonal effectiveness. By responding with intention (instead of reacting from fear), you will be able to navigate decisions and respond to stress, in a way reveals new opportunities. You will emerge from our work together having peace about the past, contentment in the present and optimism for the future.
Many of my clients have done therapy before and want more than a therapist who can listen and validate. I offer guidance, feedback, coping tools and mindfulness practices to help clients dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions and relationship frustrations to enhance their confidence, resilience and interpersonal effectiveness. By responding with intention (instead of reacting from fear), you will be able to navigate decisions and respond to stress, in a way reveals new opportunities. You will emerge from our work together having peace about the past, contentment in the present and optimism for the future.
(562) 383-7626 View (562) 383-7626
Photo of Mary Catherine Donahue, LICSW, LCSW-C, NBCCH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Catherine Donahue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, NBCCH, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I utilize several different supportive skills in sessions including mindfulness and transpersonal spiritual approaches that ease feelings of anxiety, trauma and depression.
I specialize in working with individuals in recovery from substance use, those who have faced personal loss in life or are struggling with life transitions and are seeking a place of peace. At the initial interview, we will jointly set treatment goals and determine the course to achieve those goals. In sessions, neuroscience informed skills are utilized to activate and heal emotional pain, examine obstructive thinking and barriers to growth, determine more supportive self choices, increase self and other awareness and to ultimately bring about greater presence, joy and calmness in life.
I utilize several different supportive skills in sessions including mindfulness and transpersonal spiritual approaches that ease feelings of anxiety, trauma and depression.
I specialize in working with individuals in recovery from substance use, those who have faced personal loss in life or are struggling with life transitions and are seeking a place of peace. At the initial interview, we will jointly set treatment goals and determine the course to achieve those goals. In sessions, neuroscience informed skills are utilized to activate and heal emotional pain, examine obstructive thinking and barriers to growth, determine more supportive self choices, increase self and other awareness and to ultimately bring about greater presence, joy and calmness in life.
(804) 570-2055 View (804) 570-2055
Photo of Michelle Rieff, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Rieff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
Additionally, I am trained in yoga and meditation and can incorporate mindfulness training into our work if desired.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. With my support, you can gain increased self-awareness and clarity into the self-defeating patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck, distressed, alone or in conflict. I strive to create an atmosphere that is caring, compassionate and safe to empower you to take the necessary steps toward greater fulfillment and meaning. Specializing in issues pertaining to relationships and life transitions, including marriage/divorce, parenting, relocation, career changes and loss, I will help you discover your strengths, enhance self-esteem, improve communication, and ease your anxiety.
Additionally, I am trained in yoga and meditation and can incorporate mindfulness training into our work if desired.
Therapy is an opportunity for you to gain insight, find hope, and make lasting change. With my support, you can gain increased self-awareness and clarity into the self-defeating patterns and beliefs that may be keeping you stuck, distressed, alone or in conflict. I strive to create an atmosphere that is caring, compassionate and safe to empower you to take the necessary steps toward greater fulfillment and meaning. Specializing in issues pertaining to relationships and life transitions, including marriage/divorce, parenting, relocation, career changes and loss, I will help you discover your strengths, enhance self-esteem, improve communication, and ease your anxiety.
(240) 301-4723 View (240) 301-4723
Photo of Lynn Lynes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynn Lynes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic models, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
My approach combines cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic models, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
(703) 348-9734 View (703) 348-9734
Photo of Eleni Getachew, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleni Getachew
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
You are the one who always worries, but that’s just how you are. It’s a part of your personality. However now, you are starting to feel stressed and overwhelmed by mundane things in life. The idea of doing simple things feels like too much. At times, you worry for not worrying! You are trapped in the mental chatter and you just wish the world would stop for a second so you could get a moment of relief. You don’t have to be lost in your thoughts, feeling hopeless. I help anxious people like you become aware of their emotions and thoughts. I give tools to help you feel calmer and to quiet your mind.
You are the one who always worries, but that’s just how you are. It’s a part of your personality. However now, you are starting to feel stressed and overwhelmed by mundane things in life. The idea of doing simple things feels like too much. At times, you worry for not worrying! You are trapped in the mental chatter and you just wish the world would stop for a second so you could get a moment of relief. You don’t have to be lost in your thoughts, feeling hopeless. I help anxious people like you become aware of their emotions and thoughts. I give tools to help you feel calmer and to quiet your mind.
(202) 600-2310 View (202) 600-2310
Photo of Tamara Hope Pincus - The Pincus Center, LICSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Pincus Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
The Pincus Center specializes in working with clients to build a life filled with pleasure and joy. We will help you to find your inner voice, establish your own goals and find a path that works for you. There is no one true way to do therapy or to live your life. We will help you find the tools to ride the waves of emotions that we all experience instead of being pulled under. We can't make everything perfect but we can make it better. We focus on issues around body acceptance, sexual freedom, neurodiversity, shame, low desire, sexual functioning issues and a wide variety of other mental health issues.
(202) 499-2602 View (202) 499-2602
Photo of Taylor V Pinckney, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor V Pinckney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am a openly Queer identified Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing psychotherapy to youth and families since 2017. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to address Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, and Adjustment Disorders. Much of my career has been working with individuals and families in the BIPOC community and the LGBTQIA+ community ages 14+.
I am a openly Queer identified Clinical Social Worker. I have been providing psychotherapy to youth and families since 2017. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy, an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques to address Anxiety, Depression, Panic Disorder, Gender Dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Grief, and Adjustment Disorders. Much of my career has been working with individuals and families in the BIPOC community and the LGBTQIA+ community ages 14+.
(202) 760-4896 View (202) 760-4896
Photo of Kris O'Shee - Kris O'Shee, LPC, MFA, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kris O'Shee, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
I think of therapy as a way of freeing ourselves from the obstacles which prevent us from moving forward in our lives. Frequently these obstacles present themselves to us in the challenges of the outer world--in problems at work, in difficult relationships, in adapting to life changes, or in the sudden impact of a traumatic event. And sometimes what stands in the way of our freedom and happiness lies within us, as negative thought patterns, conflicting or confusing emotions, and unexpressed feelings--all of which can result in depression, anxiety, chronic illness, low self esteem--burdens we often carry alone.
(202) 213-5505 View (202) 213-5505
Photo of Joy Muhammad - Joyful Living on Purpose , MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joyful Living on Purpose
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20020
Life can be overwhelming at times. Have you felt lonely, confused or not purposely living your full life? I help women create the life of their dreams by providing the tools necessary to win at life. Many times in life you don't know which way to turn, all it takes is learning how to create the real you. The life God intended for you to have. I help women and girls set boundaries, take risk and focus on what they desire out of life. Let's start life where you are and evolve to new purpose in life call me for consultation.
Life can be overwhelming at times. Have you felt lonely, confused or not purposely living your full life? I help women create the life of their dreams by providing the tools necessary to win at life. Many times in life you don't know which way to turn, all it takes is learning how to create the real you. The life God intended for you to have. I help women and girls set boundaries, take risk and focus on what they desire out of life. Let's start life where you are and evolve to new purpose in life call me for consultation.
(202) 519-4986 View (202) 519-4986
Photo of Sara Oliveri, MAPP, MCLC
Sara Oliveri
MAPP, MCLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Have you ever experienced a moment when you felt truly inspired by life? Through life coaching, I help people to create lives that allow them to stay connected to that feeling of awe and miraculousness every day! Do you desire a more meaningful career? Do you want more fulfilling relationships? Do you want to better understand yourself or feel more confident? If YES to any of these questions, life coaching with me can help.
Have you ever experienced a moment when you felt truly inspired by life? Through life coaching, I help people to create lives that allow them to stay connected to that feeling of awe and miraculousness every day! Do you desire a more meaningful career? Do you want more fulfilling relationships? Do you want to better understand yourself or feel more confident? If YES to any of these questions, life coaching with me can help.
(202) 803-7184 View (202) 803-7184
Photo of Paula D Atkinson, LICSW, E-RYT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula D Atkinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, E-RYT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
My goal for every one of my clients is peace, freedom and sanity. For over a decade, I have helped clients who suffer from depression and anxiety, relationship strife, self doubt and the deep despair that results from living in a society that worships perfection, productivity, restriction, and rigidity. ​ My passion is working with those who suffer from a history of dieting, disordered eating, food obsession, and body hatred. The treatment I provide is Body Justice-focused, weight neutral, and anti-diet. I am an IFS-trained therapist, our work together will be warm, playful, transformative, grounding, and fun!
My goal for every one of my clients is peace, freedom and sanity. For over a decade, I have helped clients who suffer from depression and anxiety, relationship strife, self doubt and the deep despair that results from living in a society that worships perfection, productivity, restriction, and rigidity. ​ My passion is working with those who suffer from a history of dieting, disordered eating, food obsession, and body hatred. The treatment I provide is Body Justice-focused, weight neutral, and anti-diet. I am an IFS-trained therapist, our work together will be warm, playful, transformative, grounding, and fun!
(213) 566-3719 View (213) 566-3719
Photo of Prell Gross, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Prell Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
You've been able to manage "it" by yourself for a while, but something still doesn't feel right, right? "Something's off". You might have asked yourself is this normal stress or anxiety? Am I just sad or depressed? Why am I so annoyed with things lately? I'm here to listen to you - the right way and help you gain some clarity and regain control. My goal is to help you identify what's needed in order to make things better & get it. I'm here to support your personal growth & awareness in ways that feel most genuine to YOU! Our sessions will be honest, informative, collaborative, productive, & thought-provoking. Let's get to work!
You've been able to manage "it" by yourself for a while, but something still doesn't feel right, right? "Something's off". You might have asked yourself is this normal stress or anxiety? Am I just sad or depressed? Why am I so annoyed with things lately? I'm here to listen to you - the right way and help you gain some clarity and regain control. My goal is to help you identify what's needed in order to make things better & get it. I'm here to support your personal growth & awareness in ways that feel most genuine to YOU! Our sessions will be honest, informative, collaborative, productive, & thought-provoking. Let's get to work!
(757) 690-1992 View (757) 690-1992
Photo of Natalia Schuermann, LPC Intern
Natalia Schuermann
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
English and Russian speaking couples and individuals with diverse identity backgrounds work with me to process guilt related to caretaking; explore the reasons for certain behavior patterns; enhance communication; increase mood regulation; navigate career or relationship changes; explore identity; navigate marital challenges; and gain skills for anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, addiction. We'll process and address cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns that affect functioning and relationships. I work from a culturally competent stance, acknowledge the whole person and create a space that honors identity and intersectionality.
English and Russian speaking couples and individuals with diverse identity backgrounds work with me to process guilt related to caretaking; explore the reasons for certain behavior patterns; enhance communication; increase mood regulation; navigate career or relationship changes; explore identity; navigate marital challenges; and gain skills for anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, addiction. We'll process and address cognitive, emotional and behavioral patterns that affect functioning and relationships. I work from a culturally competent stance, acknowledge the whole person and create a space that honors identity and intersectionality.
(301) 234-8720 View (301) 234-8720
Photo of Sophia Coudenhove, MSW, LCSW-C
Sophia Coudenhove
MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
Originally from Britain, I have an international background and have helped clients from around the world. Together, we have found ways to adapt to losses as well as new environments, and to heal the legacies of trauma. I work with individual adults and teens, as well as couples and groups.
Originally from Britain, I have an international background and have helped clients from around the world. Together, we have found ways to adapt to losses as well as new environments, and to heal the legacies of trauma. I work with individual adults and teens, as well as couples and groups.
(202) 838-5589 View (202) 838-5589
Photo of Rupal Mistry - Thoughts & Emotions, LLC, LCPC
Thoughts & Emotions, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20088
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 24 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
It is my hope that in working with individuals to better meet their own goals, I am able to help them to live happier and more fulfilled lives. I look forward to meeting with you and exploring the different options to improving your life. Over the past 24 years I have worked extensively with adults struggling with depression & anxiety as well as adolescents, and their families. My practice, Thoughts & Emotions, LLC works with adults, adolescents, preteens and children. Please take a look at my website for more information regarding my experience and practice.
(301) 450-7436 View (301) 450-7436
Photo of Shawn Macdonald, PhD, Psychologist
Shawn Macdonald
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I work with clients to create a safe and affirming relationship so that there is room for healing and growth. My work with each client is unique, however central to my work is respect for your issues, concerns, and the challenges you face in your life. I see therapy as a partnership where we work together to create the changes that you are seeking in your life. I am comforatable working with a wide variety of issues from career and work life to recovering from childhood trauma and abuse.
I work with clients to create a safe and affirming relationship so that there is room for healing and growth. My work with each client is unique, however central to my work is respect for your issues, concerns, and the challenges you face in your life. I see therapy as a partnership where we work together to create the changes that you are seeking in your life. I am comforatable working with a wide variety of issues from career and work life to recovering from childhood trauma and abuse.
(301) 358-6421 View (301) 358-6421
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See more therapy options for District of Columbia

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.