Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Stephanie Higgason, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Stephanie Higgason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Portland, OR 97223
toolbox includes Strength Based, Brief Solution Focus, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as our 3 loving furbabies!
Hi, I'm Stephanie, LCSW and Owner of Full Moon Therapy, LLC! I started my practice over 2 years, in hopes of being able to expand access to therapy services for all who need it and can't find it! I now have a team fabulous providers who bringing my dream to life! I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, and that’s why my therapeutic process begins by meeting our clients where they are at. I utilize a strength-based approach, tapping into my client’s inherent strengths and resilience to empower them to navigate life’s changes. Being authentic and transparent w/my clients have afforded them space to make the needed changes!
toolbox includes Strength Based, Brief Solution Focus, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as our 3 loving furbabies!
Hi, I'm Stephanie, LCSW and Owner of Full Moon Therapy, LLC! I started my practice over 2 years, in hopes of being able to expand access to therapy services for all who need it and can't find it! I now have a team fabulous providers who bringing my dream to life! I believe that everyone’s journey is unique, and that’s why my therapeutic process begins by meeting our clients where they are at. I utilize a strength-based approach, tapping into my client’s inherent strengths and resilience to empower them to navigate life’s changes. Being authentic and transparent w/my clients have afforded them space to make the needed changes!
(503) 894-7144 View (503) 894-7144
Photo of Kate Van Brocklin, Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Kate Van Brocklin
Clinical Social Work Associate, CSWA
Portland, OR 97232
I integrate therapeutic approaches such as attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to provide you with practical tools for managing stress, regulating emotions, and enhancing overall well-being.
I help those who feel that something is missing, stuck, or unfulfilled in their life. Emotional turmoil can diminish our well-being and quality of life. I support those who want to feel loved, respected and connected with others, liberated from the fear of abandonment, and feel confident and empowered in themselves and their decisions. If you want to work towards a sense of inner peace and fulfillment in yourself and your relationships, I'm here to support and guide you on that journey.
I integrate therapeutic approaches such as attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and trauma-informed care to provide you with practical tools for managing stress, regulating emotions, and enhancing overall well-being.
I help those who feel that something is missing, stuck, or unfulfilled in their life. Emotional turmoil can diminish our well-being and quality of life. I support those who want to feel loved, respected and connected with others, liberated from the fear of abandonment, and feel confident and empowered in themselves and their decisions. If you want to work towards a sense of inner peace and fulfillment in yourself and your relationships, I'm here to support and guide you on that journey.
(503) 501-5935 View (503) 501-5935
Photo of Chris Chaplin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chris Chaplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a blend of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness cultivation, depth psychology, and attachment theory in my work with clients, with a particular focus on building awareness of the myriad ways that relational trauma in early childhood can manifest later in life, and ways to work toward healing these wounds.
You may be grieving a loss, struggling to move forward, or caught in a seemingly intractable conflict within yourself or with others in your life. You may feel stuck in place, trapped in old habits, or merely surviving when you want to thrive. Whether your concerns are big-picture or small, I believe in the power of connecting deeply and authentically with others to bring about the truest expression of ourselves. I've found success guiding others with this relationship-based, trauma-focused approach, and I'm confident that together we can bring into being your most authentic self.
I use a blend of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness cultivation, depth psychology, and attachment theory in my work with clients, with a particular focus on building awareness of the myriad ways that relational trauma in early childhood can manifest later in life, and ways to work toward healing these wounds.
You may be grieving a loss, struggling to move forward, or caught in a seemingly intractable conflict within yourself or with others in your life. You may feel stuck in place, trapped in old habits, or merely surviving when you want to thrive. Whether your concerns are big-picture or small, I believe in the power of connecting deeply and authentically with others to bring about the truest expression of ourselves. I've found success guiding others with this relationship-based, trauma-focused approach, and I'm confident that together we can bring into being your most authentic self.
(971) 791-3195 View (971) 791-3195
Photo of Michaela Grillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michaela Grillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I treat people with complex early childhood trauma with a combination of mindfulness techniques, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR and somatic therapy to relieve stress, improve self-esteem, enhance relationships, and restore confidence in their lives.
Life is a rich and beautiful opportunity for growth, yet sometimes everything seems overwhelming and it's hard to find a way forward. How do we balance relationships, work, and our own wellbeing when our mind is racing and emotions overpower us?
I treat people with complex early childhood trauma with a combination of mindfulness techniques, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR and somatic therapy to relieve stress, improve self-esteem, enhance relationships, and restore confidence in their lives.
Life is a rich and beautiful opportunity for growth, yet sometimes everything seems overwhelming and it's hard to find a way forward. How do we balance relationships, work, and our own wellbeing when our mind is racing and emotions overpower us?
(971) 365-3654 View (971) 365-3654
Photo of Melanie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melanie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Solution-focused, I employ mindfulness techniques in my practice as a way to interrupt intrusive or racing thoughts.
Hello! My name is Melanie Smith and I am a licensed social worker in Oregon with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where your thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Solution-focused, I employ mindfulness techniques in my practice as a way to interrupt intrusive or racing thoughts.
Hello! My name is Melanie Smith and I am a licensed social worker in Oregon with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where your thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(971) 414-2659 View (971) 414-2659
Photo of Luke Colbourn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Luke Colbourn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I offer therapy that uniquely blends mindfulness based practices and evidence based treatments.
Do you find yourself trying hard to overcome difficulties in your life, but end up feeling stuck, wondering “Why can’t I change this”? You might feel like your old patterns have control over you. It’s frustrating to commit to change and yet seem to make little progress. It might be time to try something different.
I offer therapy that uniquely blends mindfulness based practices and evidence based treatments.
Do you find yourself trying hard to overcome difficulties in your life, but end up feeling stuck, wondering “Why can’t I change this”? You might feel like your old patterns have control over you. It’s frustrating to commit to change and yet seem to make little progress. It might be time to try something different.
(267) 459-9482 View (267) 459-9482
Photo of Jay Edwards, Psychologist, PhD
Jay Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Along the way I've studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all of which inform my clinical approach to treatment, and are especially useful in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, e
While working in OHSU's Department of Medical Psychology, I specialized in the assessment and treatment of Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorders, TBI, Autism Spectrum Disorders and related medical conditions. It is important to understand the invisible or underlying factors which contribute to life, academic and workplace struggles.
Along the way I've studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), all of which inform my clinical approach to treatment, and are especially useful in the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders, e
While working in OHSU's Department of Medical Psychology, I specialized in the assessment and treatment of Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorders, TBI, Autism Spectrum Disorders and related medical conditions. It is important to understand the invisible or underlying factors which contribute to life, academic and workplace struggles.
(971) 252-7142 View (971) 252-7142
Photo of Morgan Looney, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Morgan Looney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
Using CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness and Solution Focused therapies.
June 2025, I have openings for new clients! I also can set up assessment appointments for folx needing WPATH letters of support. Email is the best way to contact me. I keep a waitlist, reach out to be added. My practices focuses on supporting gender diverse, teen, & BIPOC communities. I am looking to supervise student LPCinterns who want support learning to provide culturally competent care for queer bipoc individuals.
Using CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness and Solution Focused therapies.
June 2025, I have openings for new clients! I also can set up assessment appointments for folx needing WPATH letters of support. Email is the best way to contact me. I keep a waitlist, reach out to be added. My practices focuses on supporting gender diverse, teen, & BIPOC communities. I am looking to supervise student LPCinterns who want support learning to provide culturally competent care for queer bipoc individuals.
(971) 257-1543 View (971) 257-1543
Photo of Tamara Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, CMHC
Tamara Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, CMHC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I integrate a mixture of parts work (similar to IFS), cognitive, somatic and mindfulness-based approaches and creative-expressive methods with existential and narrative-based therapies.
I provide holistic psychotherapy to help clients in Oregon, Washington and Utah explore, understand and address diverse challenges in life, helping clients become empowered stewards of their own well-being. I integrate common psychotherapy approaches, including cognitive, narrative and expressive-creative therapies, with holistic approaches based in the traditions underlying yoga, Buddhism and other Eastern philosophical practices. My goal is to help clients achieve health, balance and harmony, and to embrace life.
I integrate a mixture of parts work (similar to IFS), cognitive, somatic and mindfulness-based approaches and creative-expressive methods with existential and narrative-based therapies.
I provide holistic psychotherapy to help clients in Oregon, Washington and Utah explore, understand and address diverse challenges in life, helping clients become empowered stewards of their own well-being. I integrate common psychotherapy approaches, including cognitive, narrative and expressive-creative therapies, with holistic approaches based in the traditions underlying yoga, Buddhism and other Eastern philosophical practices. My goal is to help clients achieve health, balance and harmony, and to embrace life.
(971) 248-3981 View (971) 248-3981
Photo of Lesley A Feingold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lesley A Feingold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Portland, OR 97215
I draw from a variety of methodologies, rooted in psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioral, somatic, mindfulness-based and attachment theories.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adults and adolescents in New York City, and am happy to now call Portland my home. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with grief, loss, anxiety, addiction, depression, and trauma, helping to address life challenges, transitions and long-standing issues. As we all find ourselves in this startling new landscape due to the presence of COVID-19, I can support you in coping with newfound challenges, helping you to find your grounding--even amidst our "new normal".
I draw from a variety of methodologies, rooted in psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioral, somatic, mindfulness-based and attachment theories.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience practicing psychotherapy with adults and adolescents in New York City, and am happy to now call Portland my home. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with grief, loss, anxiety, addiction, depression, and trauma, helping to address life challenges, transitions and long-standing issues. As we all find ourselves in this startling new landscape due to the presence of COVID-19, I can support you in coping with newfound challenges, helping you to find your grounding--even amidst our "new normal".
(917) 983-0488 View (917) 983-0488
Photo of Michelle L Emery - Michelle Emery, LLC, MA, NCC, CPC
Michelle Emery, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
I incorporate my knowledge and skills from this area along with all my education in counseling psychology, yoga, mindfulness and Jungian Psychology
Hello! My name is Michelle Emery I am a psychotherapist, life coach, mama, yogini and someone who loves to learn and grow. I have many tools to help individuals gain greater insight and awareness into the way they organize and approach their lives. As a woman who has done a lot of my own deep inner work and who continues to explore new tools and new modalities, I would say that one of the greatest things I can offer my clients is a safe space to explore their inner world, thereby creating more harmony in their outer world.
I incorporate my knowledge and skills from this area along with all my education in counseling psychology, yoga, mindfulness and Jungian Psychology
Hello! My name is Michelle Emery I am a psychotherapist, life coach, mama, yogini and someone who loves to learn and grow. I have many tools to help individuals gain greater insight and awareness into the way they organize and approach their lives. As a woman who has done a lot of my own deep inner work and who continues to explore new tools and new modalities, I would say that one of the greatest things I can offer my clients is a safe space to explore their inner world, thereby creating more harmony in their outer world.
(503) 300-5621 View (503) 300-5621
Photo of Molly Sterling - Molly Sterling Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Molly Sterling Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused (SAFE) EMDR and also utilize modalities such as IFS/Parts Work, Mindfulness, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and expressive arts in my work with clients.
My name is Molly Sterling (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) here in beautiful Portland, OR. I see adults 18+ with a wide variety of presenting goals and issues, including PTSD/trauma, anxiety/panic, depression, grief and/or difficulties navigating a major life transition. I specialize in working with trauma, including complex/developmental trauma and how early attachment patterns continue to show up in our relationships as adults. I particularly enjoy working with helping professionals, perfectionists, and individuals who have a hard time “getting out of their heads”.
I am trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused (SAFE) EMDR and also utilize modalities such as IFS/Parts Work, Mindfulness, Compassion-Focused Therapy, and expressive arts in my work with clients.
My name is Molly Sterling (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) here in beautiful Portland, OR. I see adults 18+ with a wide variety of presenting goals and issues, including PTSD/trauma, anxiety/panic, depression, grief and/or difficulties navigating a major life transition. I specialize in working with trauma, including complex/developmental trauma and how early attachment patterns continue to show up in our relationships as adults. I particularly enjoy working with helping professionals, perfectionists, and individuals who have a hard time “getting out of their heads”.
(971) 385-5789 View (971) 385-5789
Photo of Christina Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Christina Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory.
I believe that our relationships deeply effect how we feel, including our relationships to our bodies, our environment, our loved-ones, and our thoughts. Examining these relationships through somatic approaches as well as psychodynamic inquiry increases self-awareness and provides an opportunity to develop skills and resources to facilitate lasting change.
I offer a personalized and compassionate approach to therapy, informed by years of professional experience as well as in-depth training in somatic approaches, mindfulness techniques, and psychodynamic theory.
I believe that our relationships deeply effect how we feel, including our relationships to our bodies, our environment, our loved-ones, and our thoughts. Examining these relationships through somatic approaches as well as psychodynamic inquiry increases self-awareness and provides an opportunity to develop skills and resources to facilitate lasting change.
(503) 506-4927 View (503) 506-4927
Photo of Jorjan Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jorjan Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Portland, OR 97210
I can also help in a direct way with means to help with anxiety, to include mindfulness techniques.
What brings you to think of talking to someone, may have to do with personal or work relationships, with past or present trauma, with serious losses, and/or may be psychological in nature. Inner or outer obstacles may be shutting down access to inner resources and clarity, and, possibly, hope. Here, a safe therapeutic environment, where you are accompanied as you express the thoughts and feelings that occur to you about your situation, is needed. Unrushed, being accurately heard and responded to, you will gradually put together pieces of your own puzzle, leading to new insights and a sense of inner freedom.
I can also help in a direct way with means to help with anxiety, to include mindfulness techniques.
What brings you to think of talking to someone, may have to do with personal or work relationships, with past or present trauma, with serious losses, and/or may be psychological in nature. Inner or outer obstacles may be shutting down access to inner resources and clarity, and, possibly, hope. Here, a safe therapeutic environment, where you are accompanied as you express the thoughts and feelings that occur to you about your situation, is needed. Unrushed, being accurately heard and responded to, you will gradually put together pieces of your own puzzle, leading to new insights and a sense of inner freedom.
(503) 764-2987 View (503) 764-2987
Photo of Majken Elek, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Majken Elek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
I utilize an integrative lens, centered in mindfulness, somatic, attachment and IFS orientations to promote increased consciousness of thoughts, values, feelings, and behavior patterns.
Cultivating emotional awareness increases our ability to cope with life challenges. I offer a non-judgmental environment to explore/develop resources to address blocks related to body, mind, and spirit. I love working with inner child healing, anxiety, relationships, identifying feelings/needs/values, psychedelic integration and spiritual mentorship.
I utilize an integrative lens, centered in mindfulness, somatic, attachment and IFS orientations to promote increased consciousness of thoughts, values, feelings, and behavior patterns.
Cultivating emotional awareness increases our ability to cope with life challenges. I offer a non-judgmental environment to explore/develop resources to address blocks related to body, mind, and spirit. I love working with inner child healing, anxiety, relationships, identifying feelings/needs/values, psychedelic integration and spiritual mentorship.
(503) 406-1536 View (503) 406-1536
Photo of Alison Newey, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Alison Newey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
I am a queer integrative client-centered art therapist, trained in play therapy and anchored in mindfulness-based and neurobiologically-informed theory.
I specialize in creating a safe and accepting space for the LGBTQ+ community and other marginalized groups and cultures. I am passionate about exploring creative approaches to healing, while honoring each individual's unique journey and culture. I've witnessed the power of art-making to build connections and trust when working with people struggling with a variety of issues, including traumatic experiences, depression and anxiety, neurodiversity and everyday stressors to name a few. Art therapy is a powerful tool to help create new meanings of experience and supports self-expression without the use of words.
(971) 251-4113 View (971) 251-4113
Photo of Harini Sukumaran, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Harini Sukumaran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
9 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Children and teens learn social skills, gain academic excellence, foster self-esteem, learn mindfulness based relaxation tools to cope with feelings and identify strengths to problem solve difficulties.
I specialize in working with children and teens ( 3+) from a holistic perspective and integrate Play therapy. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them? You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD. May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. I strongly believes that every child has innate strengths of their own to cope with difficulties. These strengths become less dominant when a child internalizes a negative experience. Children feel safe when they communicate through play.
Children and teens learn social skills, gain academic excellence, foster self-esteem, learn mindfulness based relaxation tools to cope with feelings and identify strengths to problem solve difficulties.
I specialize in working with children and teens ( 3+) from a holistic perspective and integrate Play therapy. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them? You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD. May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. I strongly believes that every child has innate strengths of their own to cope with difficulties. These strengths become less dominant when a child internalizes a negative experience. Children feel safe when they communicate through play.
(503) 766-4895 x3 View (503) 766-4895 x3
Photo of Justin Shane Panneck, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PhD, LPC
Justin Shane Panneck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PhD, LPC
Portland, OR 97227
I utilize mindfulness techniques, emotional mastery, nature-based therapy, narrative approaches, etc.
I specialize in Jungian archetypology, spiritual development, personal growth, getting unstuck, life transitions, career success, self-esteem/self-image, anxiety, and depression. One of my most passionate interests and endeavors is utilizing a unique balance of humor, creativity, nature and urban therapy and years of brain research
I utilize mindfulness techniques, emotional mastery, nature-based therapy, narrative approaches, etc.
I specialize in Jungian archetypology, spiritual development, personal growth, getting unstuck, life transitions, career success, self-esteem/self-image, anxiety, and depression. One of my most passionate interests and endeavors is utilizing a unique balance of humor, creativity, nature and urban therapy and years of brain research
(503) 564-7763 View (503) 564-7763
Photo of Samantha Baron, Professional Counselor Associate
Samantha Baron
Professional Counselor Associate
Portland, OR 97214
I utilize techniques such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Grounding
From the very first session, we start building rapport, discussing your goals, what modalities we could use, and how it can help heal. This is your journey, not mine. I meet you where you are; you are the guide, and I am your support. I love to joke around, be playful, laugh with you, and most importantly, celebrate your progress, wins, and accomplishments. ​
I utilize techniques such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Grounding
From the very first session, we start building rapport, discussing your goals, what modalities we could use, and how it can help heal. This is your journey, not mine. I meet you where you are; you are the guide, and I am your support. I love to joke around, be playful, laugh with you, and most importantly, celebrate your progress, wins, and accomplishments. ​
(971) 365-5083 View (971) 365-5083
Photo of Tever Nickerson - WellPath Counseling & Associates , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
WellPath Counseling & Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Our therapists work with a number of issues using somatic, body-based psychotherapy, mindfulness, attachment, internal family systems, narrative, relational and humanistic therapies.
Accepting new clients! WellPath Counseling & Associates is a group practice offering caring and compassionate counseling working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Whether it is depression and anxiety, resolution to interpersonal conflict or general stress from today's world, we strive to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for you to explore your concerns.
Our therapists work with a number of issues using somatic, body-based psychotherapy, mindfulness, attachment, internal family systems, narrative, relational and humanistic therapies.
Accepting new clients! WellPath Counseling & Associates is a group practice offering caring and compassionate counseling working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Whether it is depression and anxiety, resolution to interpersonal conflict or general stress from today's world, we strive to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for you to explore your concerns.
(503) 342-2156 View (503) 342-2156

See more therapy options for Portland

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.