Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Leslie Skaistis, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Leslie Skaistis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
These include mindfulness, using one's values to guide change, fostering compassion for oneself, and exploring existential themes.
The core of my work is creating a safe space where clients can feel heard, respected, and understood. A full and satisfying life is unique to each person; I will collaborate with you as you move toward the life you want to live. Understanding each client's culture, identities, and worldview is central to my approach. Not only is it important to deeply understand you as an individual, but also to explore how factors in the wider environment either promote your well being or intensify your distress. A holistic approach to wellness involves the individual, their relationships, and their wider world.
These include mindfulness, using one's values to guide change, fostering compassion for oneself, and exploring existential themes.
The core of my work is creating a safe space where clients can feel heard, respected, and understood. A full and satisfying life is unique to each person; I will collaborate with you as you move toward the life you want to live. Understanding each client's culture, identities, and worldview is central to my approach. Not only is it important to deeply understand you as an individual, but also to explore how factors in the wider environment either promote your well being or intensify your distress. A holistic approach to wellness involves the individual, their relationships, and their wider world.
(414) 269-5922 View (414) 269-5922
Photo of Kate Valente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Kate Valente
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I enjoy combining different techniques with my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and mindfulness.
Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself or others right now? Perhaps you’re exploring or questioning identity, sexuality, or gender? Are you a parent who has a child that may be struggling with their own mental health, “big feelings”, or behaviors? I specialize in working with kids (6 years and up) & teens, young adults (18-30), and the LGBTQ+ community.
I enjoy combining different techniques with my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and mindfulness.
Are you struggling to feel connected to yourself or others right now? Perhaps you’re exploring or questioning identity, sexuality, or gender? Are you a parent who has a child that may be struggling with their own mental health, “big feelings”, or behaviors? I specialize in working with kids (6 years and up) & teens, young adults (18-30), and the LGBTQ+ community.
(414) 420-1632 View (414) 420-1632
Photo of Loria Boone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Loria Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53215
Hi, my name is Loria Boone. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I am intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy. This is an evidence-based practice used to treat an array of concerns including borderline personality disorder, self-harm, interpersonal issues, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I approach therapy collaboratively. My clients are the experts in their own lives. I use dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to increase mindfulness, build insight, and teach skills.
Hi, my name is Loria Boone. I am a licensed professional counselor with 10 years of experience in behavioral health. I am intensively trained in dialectical behavioral therapy. This is an evidence-based practice used to treat an array of concerns including borderline personality disorder, self-harm, interpersonal issues, and difficulty coping with life stressors. I approach therapy collaboratively. My clients are the experts in their own lives. I use dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy to increase mindfulness, build insight, and teach skills.
(414) 485-9925 View (414) 485-9925
Photo of Emma Nelson, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Emma Nelson
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I utilize an eclectic style to utilize various therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered approaches to create unique individualized goals for all who come into my office.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
I utilize an eclectic style to utilize various therapeutic techniques, including CBT, Mindfulness, and Person-Centered approaches to create unique individualized goals for all who come into my office.
Feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Are you looking for support and ways to cope? Whether you are going through recent stressors or had past challenges, there is a path to a better tomorrow. Through exploration of your unique self, we can work together to guide you to your goals.
(414) 296-9981 x504 View (414) 296-9981 x504
Photo of Resiliency Counseling & Wellness Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Resiliency Counseling & Wellness Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My framework is derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Therapy.
I have worked with various clients of various populations and walks of life. The ultimate goal of the client is to be seen and heard and to develop the ability to grow into their best selves. Therapy may allow the client to learn, cope and or heal so that they are able to function in their everyday lives in harmony.
My framework is derived from Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness Therapy.
I have worked with various clients of various populations and walks of life. The ultimate goal of the client is to be seen and heard and to develop the ability to grow into their best selves. Therapy may allow the client to learn, cope and or heal so that they are able to function in their everyday lives in harmony.
(414) 928-8233 View (414) 928-8233
Photo of Angie Brannan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Angie Brannan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Rooted in evidence- based practices my therapeutic approach integrates various modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused counseling.
I am a licensed therapist in the state of Wisconsin with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about partnering with clients to help them through life's challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can freely explore their thoughts, emotions and challenges.
Rooted in evidence- based practices my therapeutic approach integrates various modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused counseling.
I am a licensed therapist in the state of Wisconsin with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I am passionate about partnering with clients to help them through life's challenges. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can freely explore their thoughts, emotions and challenges.
(262) 217-8173 View (262) 217-8173
Photo of Whole Path Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Whole Path Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53205
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in using evidenced-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, trauma informed, EMDR, IFS, person centered, solution focused, and mindfulness approaches.
Hello, and welcome! I am a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Master's in Social Work program, and have worked in the field for about 15 years in various roles assisting children, families and adults. I am licensed to provide psychotherapy in the state of Wisconsin, and have been providing mental health services to clients across the lifespan with a wide range of mental and emotional disorders for 10 years. I am passionate about providing individualized, effective psychotherapy services to assist anyone who feels they could benefit from extra support during times of emotional struggle or life change.
I specialize in using evidenced-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, trauma informed, EMDR, IFS, person centered, solution focused, and mindfulness approaches.
Hello, and welcome! I am a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Master's in Social Work program, and have worked in the field for about 15 years in various roles assisting children, families and adults. I am licensed to provide psychotherapy in the state of Wisconsin, and have been providing mental health services to clients across the lifespan with a wide range of mental and emotional disorders for 10 years. I am passionate about providing individualized, effective psychotherapy services to assist anyone who feels they could benefit from extra support during times of emotional struggle or life change.
(414) 246-0423 View (414) 246-0423
Photo of Susan Wasserman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Susan Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Using an in-depth comprehensive approach which includes talk, CRM, brainspotting, somatic experiencing, applied mindfulness, and energy psychology techniques, clients with traditional or spiritually oriented perspectives are well served.
Are you looking for a warm and trusting connection to help you be truly seen and understood? Do you feel depressed, anxious, lost, or stuck? Do you struggle with self-esteem or relationship challenges? With support and compassion I facilitate self-awareness, transformation and a greater sense of well being. I provide tools to work through trauma and grief, diminish negative patterns. and increase self compassion. With over 27 years experience, my approach is holistic. I honor diversity and complexity, I work best with those interested in exploring their inner resources, gaining insight into themselves, and releasing blocks to progress.
Using an in-depth comprehensive approach which includes talk, CRM, brainspotting, somatic experiencing, applied mindfulness, and energy psychology techniques, clients with traditional or spiritually oriented perspectives are well served.
Are you looking for a warm and trusting connection to help you be truly seen and understood? Do you feel depressed, anxious, lost, or stuck? Do you struggle with self-esteem or relationship challenges? With support and compassion I facilitate self-awareness, transformation and a greater sense of well being. I provide tools to work through trauma and grief, diminish negative patterns. and increase self compassion. With over 27 years experience, my approach is holistic. I honor diversity and complexity, I work best with those interested in exploring their inner resources, gaining insight into themselves, and releasing blocks to progress.
(414) 369-2930 View (414) 369-2930
Photo of Juliet Haas, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Juliet Haas
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
I approach counseling through an integrative lens that incorporates the mind/body connection, expressive therapy approaches, mindfulness, and evidence based techniques.
Do you find yourself stressed managing all that life throws your way? The worry, overwhelm, and panic feels never ending. The stress may be from external or internal pressure, a life transition, or the death of a loved one. On the outside you look like you have it all together but on the inside you're crumbling; not feeling like you. Living between these two worlds is exhausting and all you want is a moment of relief. In counseling we will work together to create lifelong change so that getting through the day is less exhausting and more energizing.
I approach counseling through an integrative lens that incorporates the mind/body connection, expressive therapy approaches, mindfulness, and evidence based techniques.
Do you find yourself stressed managing all that life throws your way? The worry, overwhelm, and panic feels never ending. The stress may be from external or internal pressure, a life transition, or the death of a loved one. On the outside you look like you have it all together but on the inside you're crumbling; not feeling like you. Living between these two worlds is exhausting and all you want is a moment of relief. In counseling we will work together to create lifelong change so that getting through the day is less exhausting and more energizing.
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Photo of Amy Lynn Kerznar, Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Amy Lynn Kerznar
Counselor, MS, LPC, SACIT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53227  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness Practices to help reduce the symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression that complicate and contribute to Substance Use Disorders.
Many people with trauma or PTSD also suffer from substance use issues . Feelings of anxiety, fear, anger, grief, depression, loneliness, feeling judged, and misunderstood are very normal. You may not trust the world around you and may not know how to cope with symptoms of trauma alone and will instead seek to numb your emotional turmoil. Both are lonely and isolating issues. Substance use is an outward manifestation of your pain and with supportive trauma and substance use counseling combined, your addiction can be treated as well as the underline symptoms that cause the need to numb your emotions and avoid your reality.
I utilize a combination of Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, DBT, Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness Practices to help reduce the symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression that complicate and contribute to Substance Use Disorders.
Many people with trauma or PTSD also suffer from substance use issues . Feelings of anxiety, fear, anger, grief, depression, loneliness, feeling judged, and misunderstood are very normal. You may not trust the world around you and may not know how to cope with symptoms of trauma alone and will instead seek to numb your emotional turmoil. Both are lonely and isolating issues. Substance use is an outward manifestation of your pain and with supportive trauma and substance use counseling combined, your addiction can be treated as well as the underline symptoms that cause the need to numb your emotions and avoid your reality.
(262) 383-4468 View (262) 383-4468
Photo of The Therapeutic Workshop, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
The Therapeutic Workshop
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53207
We also use a mix of SFBT, Mindfulness Self-Compassion, CBT, and Authenticity.
We believe people can heal and grow and do that many ways. At The Therapeutic Workshop we offer unique and creative services for our clients. We start with listening to you, your unique story, and how you would like to grow and heal. We help you by looking at the way forward and we walk down the path with you, however that path looks and wherever that path goes, and we celebrate all of the success on that journey. We offer an inclusive and safe space and bring our expense and creativity to every individual so you can get what you need.
We also use a mix of SFBT, Mindfulness Self-Compassion, CBT, and Authenticity.
We believe people can heal and grow and do that many ways. At The Therapeutic Workshop we offer unique and creative services for our clients. We start with listening to you, your unique story, and how you would like to grow and heal. We help you by looking at the way forward and we walk down the path with you, however that path looks and wherever that path goes, and we celebrate all of the success on that journey. We offer an inclusive and safe space and bring our expense and creativity to every individual so you can get what you need.
(414) 626-0469 View (414) 626-0469
Photo of Paul M Smerz, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Paul M Smerz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
I am trained in cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and psychoanalytical interventions.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
I am trained in cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and psychoanalytical interventions.
As a clinical psychologist I strive to provide a transformative experience that not only resolves the symptoms and issues that brought you to treatment, but also develops deeper insight and awareness that promotes lasting change. I work to collaborate with you to develop a plan for continued growth that reflects your life-long plans, goals, and unmet needs. To that end, I strive to facilitate an experience for you of change in those aspects of your life that are most meaningful to you, including your inner world, relationships, spiritual beliefs, work life and world views.
(414) 905-3081 x470 View (414) 905-3081 x470
Photo of Jessica J. Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Jessica J. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217  (Online Only)
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
The therapeutic relationship can be a very important one and, like any other healthy relationship, it is based on mutual respect, trust and commitment. I approach our work together with a nonjudgmental stance. I will meet you wherever you are in your life's journey and honor your unique strengths. I support clients in creating their most fulfilling lives, in line with their values and goals. I incorporate mindfulness into a collaborative and client-centered process and employ an honest, direct communication style combined with warmth, compassion, and humor. I strive for a balance of embracing both change and acceptance.
(262) 214-3769 View (262) 214-3769
Photo of Ryan Larkey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Ryan Larkey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53215
I approach therapy using a combination of classic evidence-based treatments, skills training, use of structure and mindfulness practice.
Many of us struggle daily with issues like anxiety, stress, depression, anger or just feeling misunderstood. We may feel stuck and ashamed at our inability to just will ourselves into being "better". This internal suffering is so common, but the good news is we all possess an internal capacity for change. It hurts to feel "stuck", but making changes can also be hard to do on our own. I have years of experience working with folks with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, stress and other personal challenges. I am specially trained and committed to supporting clients in the LGBTQ community and immigrant populations.
I approach therapy using a combination of classic evidence-based treatments, skills training, use of structure and mindfulness practice.
Many of us struggle daily with issues like anxiety, stress, depression, anger or just feeling misunderstood. We may feel stuck and ashamed at our inability to just will ourselves into being "better". This internal suffering is so common, but the good news is we all possess an internal capacity for change. It hurts to feel "stuck", but making changes can also be hard to do on our own. I have years of experience working with folks with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, stress and other personal challenges. I am specially trained and committed to supporting clients in the LGBTQ community and immigrant populations.
(262) 233-9635 View (262) 233-9635
Photo of Kathleen V. Phillipson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Kathleen V. Phillipson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53207
She is also up to date on research in the field related to brain health and how the incorporation of certain exercises, such as mindfulness practices, can actually alter the way our brain functions, leading to a reduction in anxiety and emotional reactivity.
Kathleen V. Phillipson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2008. Kathleen draws from personal life experience which helps her to empathize as she works together with client to handle life stressors such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, and relationship difficulties. Kathleen has a special interest in attachment and how early childhood experiences affect later life functioning and the ability to maintain healthy relationships.
She is also up to date on research in the field related to brain health and how the incorporation of certain exercises, such as mindfulness practices, can actually alter the way our brain functions, leading to a reduction in anxiety and emotional reactivity.
Kathleen V. Phillipson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wisconsin who has been practicing since 2008. Kathleen draws from personal life experience which helps her to empathize as she works together with client to handle life stressors such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, and relationship difficulties. Kathleen has a special interest in attachment and how early childhood experiences affect later life functioning and the ability to maintain healthy relationships.
(414) 485-9450 View (414) 485-9450
Photo of Sarah P. La Follette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Milwaukee, WI
Sarah P. La Follette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful way to help with trauma, anxiety, and anger.
You deserve to be happy. No matter what has happened, or where you've been. We all have troubles, and we all need a little help sometimes. I am here to help you figure things out. You hold the key to getting better. You know yourself better than anyone, but sometimes when we're close to an issue it's hard to see the bigger picture or the best solutions. We will work together in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Mindfulness meditation is a powerful way to help with trauma, anxiety, and anger.
You deserve to be happy. No matter what has happened, or where you've been. We all have troubles, and we all need a little help sometimes. I am here to help you figure things out. You hold the key to getting better. You know yourself better than anyone, but sometimes when we're close to an issue it's hard to see the bigger picture or the best solutions. We will work together in a safe, non-judgmental space.
(414) 251-1413 View (414) 251-1413
Photo of Erin Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Erin Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53211
My clients are adults and adolescents who tend to identify themselves as highly sensitive, perfectionistic, and self-critical. They often feel intense emotions and have active minds that always seem to be "on". Using strengths-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness approaches, I help individuals learn to step back and notice their thoughts and feelings rather than be controlled by them. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, these skills allow people to connect with their values and pursue what's important to them.
My clients are adults and adolescents who tend to identify themselves as highly sensitive, perfectionistic, and self-critical. They often feel intense emotions and have active minds that always seem to be "on". Using strengths-based, solution-focused, and mindfulness approaches, I help individuals learn to step back and notice their thoughts and feelings rather than be controlled by them. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma, these skills allow people to connect with their values and pursue what's important to them.
(414) 436-2532 View (414) 436-2532
Photo of Julie C Witthuhn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Julie C Witthuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53222
I highly value the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Based practices to help people achieve their goals.
Throughout my 17 years of counseling a diverse population of clients, I have found that everyone wants the same thing... an increased sense of happiness and peace. This means something different to us all. I am here to help you figure out what that means to you, and how to obtain it.
I highly value the application of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness Based practices to help people achieve their goals.
Throughout my 17 years of counseling a diverse population of clients, I have found that everyone wants the same thing... an increased sense of happiness and peace. This means something different to us all. I am here to help you figure out what that means to you, and how to obtain it.
(414) 240-0324 View (414) 240-0324
Photo of Julie Abdullah, Licensed Professional Counselor in Milwaukee, WI
Julie Abdullah
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I pull strategies from the following approaches, based on individual needs: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, Behavioral Activation, DBT, Exposure and Response Prevention, Prolonged Exposure, and incorporate mindfulness practices throughout.
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
I pull strategies from the following approaches, based on individual needs: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, Behavioral Activation, DBT, Exposure and Response Prevention, Prolonged Exposure, and incorporate mindfulness practices throughout.
Are you starting to wonder if what you feel is "normal"? Maybe anxiety is getting to the point where it is an exhausting, everyday occurrence, and you'd like to get back in control of your life. Everyone struggles with overwhelming situations and emotions from time to time, and I am a firm believer that no obstacle you are facing right now is too big to tackle. As your therapist, I will use practical strategies that will guide you in your journey of empowerment and assist with creating a strengthened sense of self. I will help you make sense of difficult experiences and guide you to the life you most want to live.
(414) 404-3243 View (414) 404-3243
Photo of Michael L Jorn, Psychologist in Milwaukee, WI
Michael L Jorn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Mindfulness, and Somatic interventions.
I specialize in providing therapy to men for a variety of issues. This includes all men, straight or gay. Relationship issues, anxiety & mood issues, and chronic illnesses are common problems in my practice. This can also include rebuilding after a painful divorce process. Having good relationship skills whether at home or work is an increasingly important skill to have in order to function well.
Treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Mindfulness, and Somatic interventions.
I specialize in providing therapy to men for a variety of issues. This includes all men, straight or gay. Relationship issues, anxiety & mood issues, and chronic illnesses are common problems in my practice. This can also include rebuilding after a painful divorce process. Having good relationship skills whether at home or work is an increasingly important skill to have in order to function well.
(414) 269-4845 View (414) 269-4845
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.