Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Tennessee

Photo of Bonny O'Neill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Bonny O'Neill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
In addition to various forms of therapy, I utilize mindfulness to ground clients in the present as we establish and work towards achievable goals.
My clients are often those struggling with anxiety, self-worth, and life transitions/adjustments. I also have particular specialities and experience with grief, substance addictions or those who are the loved one of a person with addictions, and trauma. When you read the word "trauma" it doesn't have to mean only abuse, car accidents, etc. There are various stressful life experiences that register as trauma, such as divorce, neglect/abandonment, health related issues and diagnoses, miscarriages, and many more. All that is needed from you is a desire to be present in the counseling space. The rest we walk through together.
In addition to various forms of therapy, I utilize mindfulness to ground clients in the present as we establish and work towards achievable goals.
My clients are often those struggling with anxiety, self-worth, and life transitions/adjustments. I also have particular specialities and experience with grief, substance addictions or those who are the loved one of a person with addictions, and trauma. When you read the word "trauma" it doesn't have to mean only abuse, car accidents, etc. There are various stressful life experiences that register as trauma, such as divorce, neglect/abandonment, health related issues and diagnoses, miscarriages, and many more. All that is needed from you is a desire to be present in the counseling space. The rest we walk through together.
(615) 471-6870 View (615) 471-6870
Photo of Tranquil JC, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Tranquil JC, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37604
We are trained in IFS, EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, ACT and other trauma and person-centered treatments.
Compassion, trust and balance are at the heart of the work that we do. We approach challenges with curiosity and collaboration. We strive to provide a supportive and therapeutic environment where you can navigate your concerns and align yourself with your goals. Treatment is customized and unique, as each person who we work with is special and has distinct strengths, needs and preferences. We value diversity and foster inclusivity as an ally and as a partner on your individual path. We are direct and thoughtful, supportive and empathic. We work with clients to develop strengths and achieve life goals.
We are trained in IFS, EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, ACT and other trauma and person-centered treatments.
Compassion, trust and balance are at the heart of the work that we do. We approach challenges with curiosity and collaboration. We strive to provide a supportive and therapeutic environment where you can navigate your concerns and align yourself with your goals. Treatment is customized and unique, as each person who we work with is special and has distinct strengths, needs and preferences. We value diversity and foster inclusivity as an ally and as a partner on your individual path. We are direct and thoughtful, supportive and empathic. We work with clients to develop strengths and achieve life goals.
(423) 214-2394 View (423) 214-2394
Photo of Sharehan Ayesh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Sharehan Ayesh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Bartlett, TN 38134  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through mindfulness training, reversal of negative thinking, alongside acceptance commitment therapy will we challenge our thoughts and feelings.
I work well with clients whom are seeking to improve their quality of life. If there’s ever a moment where one maybe feeling a void, emptiness inside of them I assist and facilitate clients through rediscovery of self. The concept of being fully aware of oneself and how you see the world is crucial to identifying and upholding your personal values and standards. It’s when we neglect our standards of living do we find conflict or that internal battle. Most of the time this happens when a life stressor occurs. My ideal client is one whom is ready to move from victim to survivor.
Through mindfulness training, reversal of negative thinking, alongside acceptance commitment therapy will we challenge our thoughts and feelings.
I work well with clients whom are seeking to improve their quality of life. If there’s ever a moment where one maybe feeling a void, emptiness inside of them I assist and facilitate clients through rediscovery of self. The concept of being fully aware of oneself and how you see the world is crucial to identifying and upholding your personal values and standards. It’s when we neglect our standards of living do we find conflict or that internal battle. Most of the time this happens when a life stressor occurs. My ideal client is one whom is ready to move from victim to survivor.
(901) 295-4224 View (901) 295-4224
Photo of Dawn Casey-Chiles in Tennessee
Dawn Casey-Chiles
LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
Hypnosis/hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, conscious breath-work, mindfulness/meditation, dreamwork, past life, EMDR and regression therapy are offered as pathways to deeper healing.
Offering a healing place for life changes that start with your personal readiness to go beyond the surface level issues. For individuals that ready to take a journey of personal transformation. Peeling back layers, whether hidden or aware to release, restore, connect and live authentically...mind, body and spirit.
Hypnosis/hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, conscious breath-work, mindfulness/meditation, dreamwork, past life, EMDR and regression therapy are offered as pathways to deeper healing.
Offering a healing place for life changes that start with your personal readiness to go beyond the surface level issues. For individuals that ready to take a journey of personal transformation. Peeling back layers, whether hidden or aware to release, restore, connect and live authentically...mind, body and spirit.
(901) 401-9817 View (901) 401-9817
Photo of Mary E Owens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Mary E Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-DBT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Do you have Borderline Personality or Bipolar Disorder and are struggling to find a therapist who understands your specific needs? Have you heard of Dialectical Behavior therapy and wondered if it could help you? If this is you, I would love to be a part of your journey towards finding a deeper understanding of your diagnosis. Together we can work towards developing skills that will improve your daily life, help you navigate your overwhelming emotions, and enhance your relationships . Mindfulness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance skills will provide you a path towards a more peaceful and balanced life.
Do you have Borderline Personality or Bipolar Disorder and are struggling to find a therapist who understands your specific needs? Have you heard of Dialectical Behavior therapy and wondered if it could help you? If this is you, I would love to be a part of your journey towards finding a deeper understanding of your diagnosis. Together we can work towards developing skills that will improve your daily life, help you navigate your overwhelming emotions, and enhance your relationships . Mindfulness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance skills will provide you a path towards a more peaceful and balanced life.
(615) 703-4473 View (615) 703-4473
Photo of Jazzmin Cohen Psyd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Tennessee
Jazzmin Cohen Psyd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I also utilize Mindfulness techniques to assist with becoming aware of yourself within the present moment through deep breathing and meditation.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
I also utilize Mindfulness techniques to assist with becoming aware of yourself within the present moment through deep breathing and meditation.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
(615) 909-2384 View (615) 909-2384
Photo of Lizzie Harrigan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Lizzie Harrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I utilize a variety of models including experiential therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Are you feeling stuck? Is there something nagging at you? Do people consistently tell you that you should change? Maybe you are in pain or feeling stressed. Maybe you want more out of your relationships or your work life. Perhaps you want to be healthier. Therapy can help. Together, let's identify what the problems are and begin moving toward a happier, more energetic you. I will provide you with professional support and suggestions and together we will continually monitor your progress until you reach your goals.
I utilize a variety of models including experiential therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Are you feeling stuck? Is there something nagging at you? Do people consistently tell you that you should change? Maybe you are in pain or feeling stressed. Maybe you want more out of your relationships or your work life. Perhaps you want to be healthier. Therapy can help. Together, let's identify what the problems are and begin moving toward a happier, more energetic you. I will provide you with professional support and suggestions and together we will continually monitor your progress until you reach your goals.
(615) 395-1307 View (615) 395-1307
Photo of Jacqueline O'Dell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Jacqueline O'Dell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404  (Online Only)
Jackie utilizes therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness techniques, and more as appropriat.
Jackie is a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist (LCPT) with over 25 years of experience working with adults, including individuals, families, couples, seniors, people with disabilities, dancers, and athletes. Her expertise has supported those experiencing the loss of a loved one, dramatic life changes, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and gender issues, as well as end-of-life issues.
Jackie utilizes therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness techniques, and more as appropriat.
Jackie is a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist (LCPT) with over 25 years of experience working with adults, including individuals, families, couples, seniors, people with disabilities, dancers, and athletes. Her expertise has supported those experiencing the loss of a loved one, dramatic life changes, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, eating disorders, and gender issues, as well as end-of-life issues.
(423) 205-6758 View (423) 205-6758
Photo of Sarah Link in Tennessee
Sarah Link
LMSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
I use a blend of psychoeducation (providing education about mental health), mindfulness, and talk therapy approaches to empower each client to be an active participant in their mental health journey.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and addiction. I enjoy collaborating with clients to promote a more positive self-image, to create a greater sense of safety within themselves, and to cultivate a meaningful, connected life. I celebrate clients for who they are and support who they are becoming.
I use a blend of psychoeducation (providing education about mental health), mindfulness, and talk therapy approaches to empower each client to be an active participant in their mental health journey.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, grief, and addiction. I enjoy collaborating with clients to promote a more positive self-image, to create a greater sense of safety within themselves, and to cultivate a meaningful, connected life. I celebrate clients for who they are and support who they are becoming.
(615) 930-3774 View (615) 930-3774
Photo of Music Therapy Nashville in Tennessee
Music Therapy Nashville
MD, MT-BC, NMT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I offer clients wellness services, mental health therapy, and medical and neurological rehabilitation services that use traditional talk therapy as well as music and the creative arts as treatment tools. My goal is to help you, or your child, develop the skills and abilities to feel your best physically, mentally, and emotionally. Sessions may include education around the role of trauma, past experience, and neurochemistry in how we feel and act now, mindfulness exercises, relaxation practices, creativity-based activities, and the development of individualized plans to help practice healthier thought and behavior patterns.
I offer clients wellness services, mental health therapy, and medical and neurological rehabilitation services that use traditional talk therapy as well as music and the creative arts as treatment tools. My goal is to help you, or your child, develop the skills and abilities to feel your best physically, mentally, and emotionally. Sessions may include education around the role of trauma, past experience, and neurochemistry in how we feel and act now, mindfulness exercises, relaxation practices, creativity-based activities, and the development of individualized plans to help practice healthier thought and behavior patterns.
(629) 205-6433 View (629) 205-6433
Photo of Alyssa Thurman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Alyssa Thurman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Cookeville, TN 38501
Waitlist for new clients
I like to utilize principles of mindfulness and CBT while staying trauma informed.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is to ask for help. We all come to therapy for various reasons. Whatever the reason, I would love to offer you the time and space to discover your own healing and wellness. While I welcome anyone into my office, I have a heart for children and families as well as post-partum mothers.
I like to utilize principles of mindfulness and CBT while staying trauma informed.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is to ask for help. We all come to therapy for various reasons. Whatever the reason, I would love to offer you the time and space to discover your own healing and wellness. While I welcome anyone into my office, I have a heart for children and families as well as post-partum mothers.
(931) 740-1173 View (931) 740-1173
Photo of Leah E. Newman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Leah E. Newman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
LGBTQ+. Gender. Sexuality. Alternative Spirituality. Adult ADHD Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Kink. Sex Work. Vegan. Life Coaching. Tarot. Reiki. Virtual. 420 Friendly. Anxiety. Depression. . BPD. Couples. Meditation. I specialize in gender transitions, LGBTQ+ living, alternative spiritualities, and mindfulness. Don't worry, our straight friends are always welcome too! Find out more at www.LeahNewmanCounseling.com
(615) 745-3862 View (615) 745-3862
Photo of Valerie Gaglione, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Valerie Gaglione
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I create an integrative, unique treatment plan for each client by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
My specialty is focused on helping individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders by targeting the somatic symptoms, irrational thoughts, and behavioral patterns keeping them from growing into their best versions of themselves. I also specialize in helping women struggling after traumatic experiences, navigating difficult life transitions, and healing after relationship conflicts. You do not need to navigate these difficulties on your own, and I am here to walk alongside you on your healing journey by empowering you to find meaning in your hardships and overcome the challenges that life has thrown in your path.
I create an integrative, unique treatment plan for each client by utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
My specialty is focused on helping individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders by targeting the somatic symptoms, irrational thoughts, and behavioral patterns keeping them from growing into their best versions of themselves. I also specialize in helping women struggling after traumatic experiences, navigating difficult life transitions, and healing after relationship conflicts. You do not need to navigate these difficulties on your own, and I am here to walk alongside you on your healing journey by empowering you to find meaning in your hardships and overcome the challenges that life has thrown in your path.
(423) 358-2325 View (423) 358-2325
Photo of Mandy Boerema, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tennessee
Mandy Boerema
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
My approaches to therapy are psychoeducation, psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed models.
Symptoms/issues that I most often see are anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, trauma, life transitions, emotion regulation/anger management, and others. I work with minors (ages 3 and up), adults, and families. In addition to in-session work with clients, I offer court-related services to further advocate for clients' emotional and mental well-being. A niche and passion that I have is working with victims of abuse. I have first-hand understanding and life experience to treat the traumatic emotional and mental effects of difficult relationship experiences.
My approaches to therapy are psychoeducation, psychodynamic, mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and trauma-informed models.
Symptoms/issues that I most often see are anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, parenting issues, divorce, trauma, life transitions, emotion regulation/anger management, and others. I work with minors (ages 3 and up), adults, and families. In addition to in-session work with clients, I offer court-related services to further advocate for clients' emotional and mental well-being. A niche and passion that I have is working with victims of abuse. I have first-hand understanding and life experience to treat the traumatic emotional and mental effects of difficult relationship experiences.
(423) 556-3486 View (423) 556-3486
Photo of Blake Feagans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Blake Feagans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37411
With trust as the foundation, I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness practices.
I specialize in providing therapeutic services to individuals across various age groups, addressing concerns like: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational challenges, academic difficulties, spirituality, sexual addiction, identity exploration, and grief. My approach is rooted in relational therapy, emphasizing the significance of authentic connections and mutual accountability in the healing process. I find fulfillment in assisting individuals who struggle to establish meaningful connections and are often marginalized or labeled as challenging. Additionally, I offer specialized weekly group support for male sex addiction.
With trust as the foundation, I utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal therapy, and mindfulness practices.
I specialize in providing therapeutic services to individuals across various age groups, addressing concerns like: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational challenges, academic difficulties, spirituality, sexual addiction, identity exploration, and grief. My approach is rooted in relational therapy, emphasizing the significance of authentic connections and mutual accountability in the healing process. I find fulfillment in assisting individuals who struggle to establish meaningful connections and are often marginalized or labeled as challenging. Additionally, I offer specialized weekly group support for male sex addiction.
(423) 403-3553 View (423) 403-3553
Photo of Fred L Stephens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Fred L Stephens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
I love teaching people mindfulness, encouraging changes in habits and skills.
Are you looking for help with personal changes? Relationship changes? I am interested in the profoundly personal stories and images that reflect our relationships. How we imagine our lives impacts our lives. Sharing our story in a deeply confidential and personal environment creates change. The process is collaborative and healing. Possibly the best therapists are those who themselves have risked and managed change well. I treat individuals, couples and families. Talk and guidance reduce anxiety and depression.
I love teaching people mindfulness, encouraging changes in habits and skills.
Are you looking for help with personal changes? Relationship changes? I am interested in the profoundly personal stories and images that reflect our relationships. How we imagine our lives impacts our lives. Sharing our story in a deeply confidential and personal environment creates change. The process is collaborative and healing. Possibly the best therapists are those who themselves have risked and managed change well. I treat individuals, couples and families. Talk and guidance reduce anxiety and depression.
(865) 383-0062 View (865) 383-0062
Photo of Kim Ratcliffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Kim Ratcliffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Therapy for individuals, couple, and families. There are times when life is painful and seemingly without answers, yet what seems most broken in us can be a channel for growth, even a source of strength we never knew was possible. My own healing through therapy and mindfulness meditation inspired me to pursue an MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco -- the first program in the world to blend Eastern philosophical and spiritual traditions with Western schools of psychology. Today, I feel honored to support others on their journey toward healing.
Therapy for individuals, couple, and families. There are times when life is painful and seemingly without answers, yet what seems most broken in us can be a channel for growth, even a source of strength we never knew was possible. My own healing through therapy and mindfulness meditation inspired me to pursue an MA in Integral Counseling Psychology from the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco -- the first program in the world to blend Eastern philosophical and spiritual traditions with Western schools of psychology. Today, I feel honored to support others on their journey toward healing.
(615) 249-5284 View (615) 249-5284
Photo of Brittany Elizabeth Vazquez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Brittany Elizabeth Vazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hixson, TN 37343
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified in DBT (C-DBT) and trained in TF-CBT, mindfulness-based, Coherence Therapy, and somatic approaches.
Life can be difficult but therapy doesn't have to be. If you've talked about your struggles just to feel worse afterwards and see little to no progress, I'd like to introduce myself. You don't need to relive every past hurt or leave feeling emotionally drained by the end of session. Change is possible without years of therapy. Let me help you figure out what's holding you back and find real, practical solutions so you can live life the way you want to. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC-MHSP) with over 6 years of experience working with with children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a certified in DBT (C-DBT) and trained in TF-CBT, mindfulness-based, Coherence Therapy, and somatic approaches.
Life can be difficult but therapy doesn't have to be. If you've talked about your struggles just to feel worse afterwards and see little to no progress, I'd like to introduce myself. You don't need to relive every past hurt or leave feeling emotionally drained by the end of session. Change is possible without years of therapy. Let me help you figure out what's holding you back and find real, practical solutions so you can live life the way you want to. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC-MHSP) with over 6 years of experience working with with children, adolescents, and adults.
(423) 210-4409 View (423) 210-4409
Photo of Adriane Brandt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Adriane Brandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37415  (Online Only)
I have been working in the field of mental healthcare since 2012. While my experience has granted me the privilege of working with a variety of ages and issues, I am most passionate about working with trauma, anger management, panic, anxiety, cutting and self-harming, dissociation, and domestic violence. I have training in EMDR, a specialized therapy developed for the treatment of Post-traumatic Stress and other trauma related concerns. I also frequently utilize mindfulness and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills training in my approach as a way to build resilience and healthy coping.
I have been working in the field of mental healthcare since 2012. While my experience has granted me the privilege of working with a variety of ages and issues, I am most passionate about working with trauma, anger management, panic, anxiety, cutting and self-harming, dissociation, and domestic violence. I have training in EMDR, a specialized therapy developed for the treatment of Post-traumatic Stress and other trauma related concerns. I also frequently utilize mindfulness and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills training in my approach as a way to build resilience and healthy coping.
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Photo of Brooke LaBarbera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Brooke LaBarbera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
This is the heart of DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), which is what I specialize in, as well as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy).
Welcome! Therapy takes courage and brave willingness to start working towards self-awareness and self-acceptance. I have a direct and validating approach to therapy, where I help you learn how to honor your emotions, while simultaneously figuring out reasonable ways to respond to problems.
This is the heart of DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), which is what I specialize in, as well as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy).
Welcome! Therapy takes courage and brave willingness to start working towards self-awareness and self-acceptance. I have a direct and validating approach to therapy, where I help you learn how to honor your emotions, while simultaneously figuring out reasonable ways to respond to problems.
(629) 249-6890 View (629) 249-6890
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.