Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Francesca Maxime
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, SEP, IFS, FOT
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I'm certified in many specialty, multi-year trauma healing modalities: Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness meditation w/ Drs.
Serving NY, FL & MA If you've had trauma in your life, a challenging childhood, find yourself struck with anxiety or depression & feel like you need some support, you've come to the right place. I help to guide adults, couples & adult families with somatic, relational, & mindful strategies to help you get at the root of your issues. Folks that I've helped include filmmakers, artists, actors, CEO's/nonprofit executives, Girlboss millennials, tech founders/entrepreneurs, marginalized millennials, couples from the premarital to longstanding marriage stage & more. I hold an inclusive lens along racial, LBGT+ & open relationship lines.
I'm certified in many specialty, multi-year trauma healing modalities: Somatic Experiencing, mindfulness meditation w/ Drs.
Serving NY, FL & MA If you've had trauma in your life, a challenging childhood, find yourself struck with anxiety or depression & feel like you need some support, you've come to the right place. I help to guide adults, couples & adult families with somatic, relational, & mindful strategies to help you get at the root of your issues. Folks that I've helped include filmmakers, artists, actors, CEO's/nonprofit executives, Girlboss millennials, tech founders/entrepreneurs, marginalized millennials, couples from the premarital to longstanding marriage stage & more. I hold an inclusive lens along racial, LBGT+ & open relationship lines.

With training in attachment, mindfulness as well as CBT, I use a trust-based approach while helping clients gain a deeper sense of self.
There is so much to say about healing that a little bio won’t do it justice. Healing is never linear and allowing yourself to begin the therapy journey will be the greatest gift you give yourself. Granted, it won’t always be pretty or comfortable and it may even get a bit tough but I am here to support you along the way with compassion and humor when needed. I have always been interested in human behavior and the way we're wired. We are fascinating beings. Therapy is a unique opportunity to learn more about yourself and the way you behave and respond towards yourself, others and the world.
With training in attachment, mindfulness as well as CBT, I use a trust-based approach while helping clients gain a deeper sense of self.
There is so much to say about healing that a little bio won’t do it justice. Healing is never linear and allowing yourself to begin the therapy journey will be the greatest gift you give yourself. Granted, it won’t always be pretty or comfortable and it may even get a bit tough but I am here to support you along the way with compassion and humor when needed. I have always been interested in human behavior and the way we're wired. We are fascinating beings. Therapy is a unique opportunity to learn more about yourself and the way you behave and respond towards yourself, others and the world.

I draw from relational and dynamic modalities, incorporating tools from somatic therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy and internal family systems.
Each of us has become who we are by way of our life experiences. My practice is guided by the belief that all our patterns and behaviors, even those we feel cause the most pain and anguish, are in reality coping mechanisms developed in response to those lived experiences. Reflecting and offering insight along the way, my hope is to support you as you get to know yourself more deeply and develop tools to enhance your wellbeing. Adapting to your needs while cultivating a space where you can share without fear of judgement, I will use curiosity, compassion, and directness to support your process.
I draw from relational and dynamic modalities, incorporating tools from somatic therapy, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy and internal family systems.
Each of us has become who we are by way of our life experiences. My practice is guided by the belief that all our patterns and behaviors, even those we feel cause the most pain and anguish, are in reality coping mechanisms developed in response to those lived experiences. Reflecting and offering insight along the way, my hope is to support you as you get to know yourself more deeply and develop tools to enhance your wellbeing. Adapting to your needs while cultivating a space where you can share without fear of judgement, I will use curiosity, compassion, and directness to support your process.

Through training and experience, my approach is informed by a blend of mindfulness and somatic experiencing practices to help clients regulate amidst unsettling experiences and process difficult emotions;Internal Family Systems to achieve balance and heal traumatic wounds; psychodynamic and relational to achieve insight into and resolve interpersonal issues.
The weight of life’s struggles can feel burdensome, distressing, and at times insurmountable. It doesn't have to be. Working interactively and collaboratively, I will help you empower yourself to move through and resolve anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal challenges from a secure, grounded, and confident place. By approaching your difficulties with a curious and compassionate lens, you will have clarity and a deeper understanding of self that will alleviate your burdens and allow for you to live, play, and love more freely.
Through training and experience, my approach is informed by a blend of mindfulness and somatic experiencing practices to help clients regulate amidst unsettling experiences and process difficult emotions;Internal Family Systems to achieve balance and heal traumatic wounds; psychodynamic and relational to achieve insight into and resolve interpersonal issues.
The weight of life’s struggles can feel burdensome, distressing, and at times insurmountable. It doesn't have to be. Working interactively and collaboratively, I will help you empower yourself to move through and resolve anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal challenges from a secure, grounded, and confident place. By approaching your difficulties with a curious and compassionate lens, you will have clarity and a deeper understanding of self that will alleviate your burdens and allow for you to live, play, and love more freely.

Beyond psychodynamics, I use IFS, EMDR, Sensorimotor, CBT, and mindfulness.
I am certified in EMDR, IFS Level 1 and Sensorimotor Therapy Level 2. I supervise at the Institute For Contemporary Psychotherapy Trauma Program. My post-grad at the New York School for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy focused on work with recovering alcoholics, my Smith College dissertation focused on 9/11 grief. I'm trained in Prolonged Grief Protocol.
Beyond psychodynamics, I use IFS, EMDR, Sensorimotor, CBT, and mindfulness.
I am certified in EMDR, IFS Level 1 and Sensorimotor Therapy Level 2. I supervise at the Institute For Contemporary Psychotherapy Trauma Program. My post-grad at the New York School for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy focused on work with recovering alcoholics, my Smith College dissertation focused on 9/11 grief. I'm trained in Prolonged Grief Protocol.

I am trained in leadership development, non-violent communication and have worked with Employee Resource Groups on mindfulness and work effectiveness.
Do you sometimes feel misunderstood by others? Are you craving close and peaceful relationships with others but find them challenging? Is internal sadness and emptiness a familiar feeling for you? If you're struggling with these feelings, I might be able to help. I work to help individuals who struggle with inner conflict and interpersonal challenges, find love, peace and joy. My approach is kind, empathic and straightforward. I provide a safe space where you can openly be you and bring your full self to be seen and appreciated. My goal is to truly understand who you are and what it feels like to be you.
I am trained in leadership development, non-violent communication and have worked with Employee Resource Groups on mindfulness and work effectiveness.
Do you sometimes feel misunderstood by others? Are you craving close and peaceful relationships with others but find them challenging? Is internal sadness and emptiness a familiar feeling for you? If you're struggling with these feelings, I might be able to help. I work to help individuals who struggle with inner conflict and interpersonal challenges, find love, peace and joy. My approach is kind, empathic and straightforward. I provide a safe space where you can openly be you and bring your full self to be seen and appreciated. My goal is to truly understand who you are and what it feels like to be you.

My goal is to help you remain in the present moment, make meaningful space for your emotions, to identify and release unhelpful thoughts, and to support you in developing a sense of mastery over your life through mindfulness and taking action.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.
My goal is to help you remain in the present moment, make meaningful space for your emotions, to identify and release unhelpful thoughts, and to support you in developing a sense of mastery over your life through mindfulness and taking action.
FREE consultations! Are you feeling stuck in negative thoughts, intense emotions, or behavioral patterns that don't serve your best interest? Are you hoping to build more meaning and joy in your life? You may feel hesitant about reaching out for help, especially with pressure from all directions to "have it all together". I'm here to join you on this journey to discover healing and build a balanced life.

EMDR, EFIT, Mindfulness, ACT, CBT, Somatic.
Are you an adult navigating emotional challenges related to life stressors, PTSD, grief, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and/or Relationship issues? Do you often feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or stuck in your personal or professional life? If your goals are to gain clarity, implement strategies for better self-care, and build confidence in your innate abilities, I can help you break free from the cycle of frustration and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life where you can thrive.
EMDR, EFIT, Mindfulness, ACT, CBT, Somatic.
Are you an adult navigating emotional challenges related to life stressors, PTSD, grief, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and/or Relationship issues? Do you often feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or stuck in your personal or professional life? If your goals are to gain clarity, implement strategies for better self-care, and build confidence in your innate abilities, I can help you break free from the cycle of frustration and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life where you can thrive.

My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating EMDR, DBT, CBT and psychodynamic therapies with somatic, mindfulness and attachment elements.
Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a brave step, especially when navigating the complexities of past experiences or current struggles. You might be feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, low self-esteem, or grappling with past trauma. As a trauma-informed and strengths-based therapist, I prioritize the co-creation of a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, accepted and empowered to explore their identities and address mental health challenges. My commitment is to walk alongside you on this journey with compassion, empathy and transparency.
My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating EMDR, DBT, CBT and psychodynamic therapies with somatic, mindfulness and attachment elements.
Embarking on a therapeutic journey is a brave step, especially when navigating the complexities of past experiences or current struggles. You might be feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, life transitions, low self-esteem, or grappling with past trauma. As a trauma-informed and strengths-based therapist, I prioritize the co-creation of a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe, accepted and empowered to explore their identities and address mental health challenges. My commitment is to walk alongside you on this journey with compassion, empathy and transparency.

El Layla Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11216
Waitlist for new clients
We will leverage mindfulness, consciousness-raising, compassion, visualization, parts-work and cognitive interventions to heal your relationship to your past, empower your present, and catalyze growth in the direction of your dreams.
My specialty is working with Black, brown and multi-ethnic, non-monogamous and QTGNC/questioning folks experiencing depression, anxiety/panic, complex trauma, and relationship or social transitions. In addition, I am experienced serving folks with a range of identities struggling with body image, disordered eating, substance misuse, self-harm, and chronic illness, including chronic pain and social stigma. I work particularly well with folks looking to decolonize their minds, relationships and lives, and generate new values-based, life-affirming constructs for themselves.
We will leverage mindfulness, consciousness-raising, compassion, visualization, parts-work and cognitive interventions to heal your relationship to your past, empower your present, and catalyze growth in the direction of your dreams.
My specialty is working with Black, brown and multi-ethnic, non-monogamous and QTGNC/questioning folks experiencing depression, anxiety/panic, complex trauma, and relationship or social transitions. In addition, I am experienced serving folks with a range of identities struggling with body image, disordered eating, substance misuse, self-harm, and chronic illness, including chronic pain and social stigma. I work particularly well with folks looking to decolonize their minds, relationships and lives, and generate new values-based, life-affirming constructs for themselves.

In my practice, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, psychoeducation, and mindfulness—all through a trauma-informed lens.
Life is full of transitions, changes, and challenges. Adapting to new environments, relationships, roles, and identities can often feel uncomfortable. To navigate these shifts successfully, we need space to grieve, adjust or develop new coping strategies, manage our emotions, and fine-tune our communication skills. As a Certified Trauma Professional, I specialize in treating symptoms of grief, trauma, and life-altering experiences.
In my practice, I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, psychoeducation, and mindfulness—all through a trauma-informed lens.
Life is full of transitions, changes, and challenges. Adapting to new environments, relationships, roles, and identities can often feel uncomfortable. To navigate these shifts successfully, we need space to grieve, adjust or develop new coping strategies, manage our emotions, and fine-tune our communication skills. As a Certified Trauma Professional, I specialize in treating symptoms of grief, trauma, and life-altering experiences.

My therapeutic approach is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness.
Therapy can be about making changes, confronting difficult topics or processing barriers that exist in everyday life. As your therapist, I provide a warm, safe and accepting space to create our therapeutic relationship. Together we will look for patterns and behaviors that have held back progress or success, and explore ways to improve daily functioning. We will explore your goals, feelings and relationships in ways that feel genuine and honest to you.
My therapeutic approach is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness.
Therapy can be about making changes, confronting difficult topics or processing barriers that exist in everyday life. As your therapist, I provide a warm, safe and accepting space to create our therapeutic relationship. Together we will look for patterns and behaviors that have held back progress or success, and explore ways to improve daily functioning. We will explore your goals, feelings and relationships in ways that feel genuine and honest to you.

I use intervention techniques that are based on interpersonal psychology, cognitive behavioral therapies, and mindfulness.
I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.
I use intervention techniques that are based on interpersonal psychology, cognitive behavioral therapies, and mindfulness.
I'm a therapist with Octave and Evernorth Behavioral Care Group. Octave is a mental health practice providing high-quality care covered by multiple insurances. Evernorth Behavioral Care Group is a behavioral health provider group in-network with Cigna Healthcare and Evernorth. For my availability, please reach out to Octave’s team by emailing or calling.

I use IFS therapy which includes mindfulness (awareness of body sensations and breath) and guided visualization.
You're a highly sensitive person who cares for everyone around you. You have a narcissistic parent and it has been challenging to navigate their expectations. You find yourself giving more time to them while feeling drained by their emotional ups and downs. Sometimes your efforts to support them go unrecognized and you feel taken for granted. But if you ever set a boundary, you are accused of being selfish. They have a hard time seeing your point of view so you leave confrontations feeling guilty. Sometimes you're even worried that you're crazy. You end up binging Dr. Ramani YouTube videos to try to make sense of your relationship.
I use IFS therapy which includes mindfulness (awareness of body sensations and breath) and guided visualization.
You're a highly sensitive person who cares for everyone around you. You have a narcissistic parent and it has been challenging to navigate their expectations. You find yourself giving more time to them while feeling drained by their emotional ups and downs. Sometimes your efforts to support them go unrecognized and you feel taken for granted. But if you ever set a boundary, you are accused of being selfish. They have a hard time seeing your point of view so you leave confrontations feeling guilty. Sometimes you're even worried that you're crazy. You end up binging Dr. Ramani YouTube videos to try to make sense of your relationship.

I use mindfulness, neuroscience, and relational approaches to help my clients better understand and manage their emotions and make meaningful changes.
I work with individuals and couples seeking to transform themselves and their relationships. I provide tools and strategies to help clients let go of old relational patterns and habits and design and practice new ways of relating and being. I help them understand their coping strategies and inner conflicts and develop new relationships with themselves and others.
I use mindfulness, neuroscience, and relational approaches to help my clients better understand and manage their emotions and make meaningful changes.
I work with individuals and couples seeking to transform themselves and their relationships. I provide tools and strategies to help clients let go of old relational patterns and habits and design and practice new ways of relating and being. I help them understand their coping strategies and inner conflicts and develop new relationships with themselves and others.

I use Mindfulness to help people distinguish themselves from their thoughts and feelings, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy to help change the way they feel by changing how they think, and to develop unconditional self-acceptance.
My goal is to put people in the driver's seat of their lives, to determine their own future regardless of their past, and to maximize their own potential.
I use Mindfulness to help people distinguish themselves from their thoughts and feelings, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy to help change the way they feel by changing how they think, and to develop unconditional self-acceptance.
My goal is to put people in the driver's seat of their lives, to determine their own future regardless of their past, and to maximize their own potential.

I tend to take a cognitive behavioral approach incorporating mindfulness and acceptance-commitment based techniques while prioritizing our therapeutic relationship and providing space for you to talk.
As a psychologist, I am passionate about fostering positive and sustainable change in your life. I prioritize your self-acceptance and the goals you came to therapy with. As a friendly, warm, and accepting clinician, I see individuals of all ages, with a particular strength in working with youth and families. I specialize in working with autistic and/or neurodivergent individuals, as well as those experiencing varying mental health difficulties such as anxiety, OCD, BFRBs, depression, and general emotional dysregulation. I am neurodiversity-affirming and provide a welcome and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals.
I tend to take a cognitive behavioral approach incorporating mindfulness and acceptance-commitment based techniques while prioritizing our therapeutic relationship and providing space for you to talk.
As a psychologist, I am passionate about fostering positive and sustainable change in your life. I prioritize your self-acceptance and the goals you came to therapy with. As a friendly, warm, and accepting clinician, I see individuals of all ages, with a particular strength in working with youth and families. I specialize in working with autistic and/or neurodivergent individuals, as well as those experiencing varying mental health difficulties such as anxiety, OCD, BFRBs, depression, and general emotional dysregulation. I am neurodiversity-affirming and provide a welcome and supportive space for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Combining use of verbal psychotherapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, and mindfulness, I provide this support in a way that best fits your individual needs.
In art therapy, clients utilize image-making to externalize their internal experiences, watching their thoughts and feelings come to life as they create. Both process and imagery lead to new insights and understanding. A wide range of materials are provided and no prior art experience is necessary. EMDR supports client's in reprocessing traumatic memories.
Combining use of verbal psychotherapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, and mindfulness, I provide this support in a way that best fits your individual needs.
In art therapy, clients utilize image-making to externalize their internal experiences, watching their thoughts and feelings come to life as they create. Both process and imagery lead to new insights and understanding. A wide range of materials are provided and no prior art experience is necessary. EMDR supports client's in reprocessing traumatic memories.

Using evidence based treatment (CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, mindfulness based treatment), I'll teach you valuable skills that can help you learn how to navigate your emotions and build stronger connections.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, difficulty making (career) decisions, or adjusting to new situations, you may feel like you’re trapped in a cycle of frustration, loneliness, or feeling overwhelmed. Each day can seem daunting, filled with self-doubt and fear of judgment. Yet, within this challenging reality lies potential for acceptance and change. My experience and compassionate approach will guide you toward relief and hope. I can help you better understand how you got to where you are now, and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors interact with each other.
Using evidence based treatment (CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, mindfulness based treatment), I'll teach you valuable skills that can help you learn how to navigate your emotions and build stronger connections.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, difficulty making (career) decisions, or adjusting to new situations, you may feel like you’re trapped in a cycle of frustration, loneliness, or feeling overwhelmed. Each day can seem daunting, filled with self-doubt and fear of judgment. Yet, within this challenging reality lies potential for acceptance and change. My experience and compassionate approach will guide you toward relief and hope. I can help you better understand how you got to where you are now, and how your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors interact with each other.

I am skilled in many empirically-based modalities of therapy: DBT & mindfulness-based practices, CBT, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, MI, PCIT, & ACT.
It is my belief that every person requires an empathic, safe, & nonjudgmental environment to grow & flourish personally & interpersonally. My aim is to create an environment that helps clients feel safe, understood & accepted to openly explore the challenges that face them. Feelings of confusion, stagnancy, loss, & self-doubt are all manifestations of the multiple burdens each human being carries of their past, present & future. I like to assist clients to identify & unload these burdens, examine them under a nonjudgmental lens, & take only what is useful to live a more fulfilling, interpersonally effective & self-trusting life.
I am skilled in many empirically-based modalities of therapy: DBT & mindfulness-based practices, CBT, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, MI, PCIT, & ACT.
It is my belief that every person requires an empathic, safe, & nonjudgmental environment to grow & flourish personally & interpersonally. My aim is to create an environment that helps clients feel safe, understood & accepted to openly explore the challenges that face them. Feelings of confusion, stagnancy, loss, & self-doubt are all manifestations of the multiple burdens each human being carries of their past, present & future. I like to assist clients to identify & unload these burdens, examine them under a nonjudgmental lens, & take only what is useful to live a more fulfilling, interpersonally effective & self-trusting life.
See more therapy options for Brooklyn
Nearby Mindfulness-based (MBCT) Therapists Searches for Brooklyn
- Brooklyn Navy Yard
- Forest Hills
- Glendale
- Howard Beach
- Long Island City
- Maspeth
- Middle Village
- New York
- Ozone Park
- Sunnyside
- Woodhaven
- Woodside
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.