Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in Waltham, MA

Photo of Medie Tonda, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Waltham, MA
Medie Tonda
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MEd , , LADCI, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453
I integrate various therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing, all tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
My ideal patient would be open to therapy, motivated to change, and likely to benefit from therapy. I am aware of the challenges that come with seeking therapy and want to be a support to those who are hesitant with the process. Ideally, I would like a client who is self-aware, receptive to feedback, and willing to hold themselves accountable.
I integrate various therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing, all tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient.
My ideal patient would be open to therapy, motivated to change, and likely to benefit from therapy. I am aware of the challenges that come with seeking therapy and want to be a support to those who are hesitant with the process. Ideally, I would like a client who is self-aware, receptive to feedback, and willing to hold themselves accountable.
(617) 609-1891 View (617) 609-1891
Photo of Wideleine Odne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Wideleine Odne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
Other modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, art therapy, journaling, and mindfulness to best meet client’s needs.
Wideleine Odne is a Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts who has over 7 years of experience providing therapeutic services and case management to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults who seeks help with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, adjustment, resources, and community referrals. She is a great motivator and a great listener. She received her bachelor of arts in Psychology from Providence College, and received her master in social work from Simmons University.
Other modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, art therapy, journaling, and mindfulness to best meet client’s needs.
Wideleine Odne is a Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts who has over 7 years of experience providing therapeutic services and case management to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults who seeks help with Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Trauma, adjustment, resources, and community referrals. She is a great motivator and a great listener. She received her bachelor of arts in Psychology from Providence College, and received her master in social work from Simmons University.
(617) 380-6450 View (617) 380-6450
Photo of Dr. Jennifer D Brown, Psychologist in Waltham, MA
Dr. Jennifer D Brown
Psychologist, ATR-BC, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice and in the Waltham area. As a psychologist, art therapist, and an educator, I have devoted myself to helping others create meaningful, fulfilling lives. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, mindfulness-based and research informed. I am astute in understanding the clinical process that underly change and therapeutic components that promote healing. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, while supporting individual strengths and meeting specific needs of the person. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice and in the Waltham area. As a psychologist, art therapist, and an educator, I have devoted myself to helping others create meaningful, fulfilling lives. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, mindfulness-based and research informed. I am astute in understanding the clinical process that underly change and therapeutic components that promote healing. I believe in a collaborative therapeutic relationship, while supporting individual strengths and meeting specific needs of the person. I welcome clients from all backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities and sexual orientations.
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Photo of Rachel Meena, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Rachel Meena
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I work with clients using Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help improve their ability to experience their emotions and not get dragged down by their thinking.
We want to feel peace and joy in this life. And mental health issues can make that difficult or nearly impossible to experience. I have experience treating clients with anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, and stressful life transitions which might look like racing thoughts, trouble sleeping or relaxing, difficulty getting rid of a particular thought or worry, feeling bad about yourself and the world, frequent tearfulness, or feelings of overwhelm. I provide a non-judgmental space to understand what you are experiencing. I work alongside clients to figure out what changes will get you to a place of well-being.
I work with clients using Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help improve their ability to experience their emotions and not get dragged down by their thinking.
We want to feel peace and joy in this life. And mental health issues can make that difficult or nearly impossible to experience. I have experience treating clients with anxiety, OCD, depression, low self-esteem, and stressful life transitions which might look like racing thoughts, trouble sleeping or relaxing, difficulty getting rid of a particular thought or worry, feeling bad about yourself and the world, frequent tearfulness, or feelings of overwhelm. I provide a non-judgmental space to understand what you are experiencing. I work alongside clients to figure out what changes will get you to a place of well-being.
(617) 644-4297 View (617) 644-4297
Photo of Nathan Mark Laprade, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Nathan Mark Laprade
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453
My work has involved approaches with narrative therapy, psychoanalysis, mindfulness, behavioralism, and existential psychology; as none of us are the same, I will adjust my approaches to your needs and presenting issues.
Helping clients navigate the spaces from where they have been, where they are, and where they are going is essential to my work as a licensed mental health counselor. I have taken this approach in my work with clients across a wide range of ages and backgrounds and a variety of settings, including veteran residential facilities and partial hospitalization group therapy programs. Drawing from my own experiences as a veteran, my goal is to help others transition from one stage of life to the next while making meaning of the whole of their lives, and have made that a primary focus to the work I do today.
My work has involved approaches with narrative therapy, psychoanalysis, mindfulness, behavioralism, and existential psychology; as none of us are the same, I will adjust my approaches to your needs and presenting issues.
Helping clients navigate the spaces from where they have been, where they are, and where they are going is essential to my work as a licensed mental health counselor. I have taken this approach in my work with clients across a wide range of ages and backgrounds and a variety of settings, including veteran residential facilities and partial hospitalization group therapy programs. Drawing from my own experiences as a veteran, my goal is to help others transition from one stage of life to the next while making meaning of the whole of their lives, and have made that a primary focus to the work I do today.
(617) 958-8697 View (617) 958-8697
Photo of Galen Polise, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Galen Polise
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
Together, we explore all aspects of self, including inner thoughts, self-awareness of patterns and behaviors, or mindfulness techniques and coping skills to challenge distressing emotions and experiences.
My ideal client leads with curiosity and seeks authentic reconnection with self. They have a desire to express their thoughts and emotions in connection to their experiences. My ideal client hopes to build self-esteem, self-confidence, and coping skills to navigate their emotions, relationships, and life experiences. My ideal client has a willingness to change through open, honest communication and collaboration towards the development of their therapeutic goals. My ideal client's intention is to improve their relationship with themselves and others and enhance their overall quality of life.
Together, we explore all aspects of self, including inner thoughts, self-awareness of patterns and behaviors, or mindfulness techniques and coping skills to challenge distressing emotions and experiences.
My ideal client leads with curiosity and seeks authentic reconnection with self. They have a desire to express their thoughts and emotions in connection to their experiences. My ideal client hopes to build self-esteem, self-confidence, and coping skills to navigate their emotions, relationships, and life experiences. My ideal client has a willingness to change through open, honest communication and collaboration towards the development of their therapeutic goals. My ideal client's intention is to improve their relationship with themselves and others and enhance their overall quality of life.
(857) 475-7427 View (857) 475-7427
Photo of Ester Hernandez, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Ester Hernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I specialized in evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness.
My ideal client is someone who struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, lack of confidence, stress, and feeling overwhelmed. If you want to learn coping strategies, identify triggers, learn about symptoms, and find your inner strength, then consider partnering up with me to improve your mental health.
I specialized in evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and Mindfulness.
My ideal client is someone who struggles with depression, anxiety, grief, lack of confidence, stress, and feeling overwhelmed. If you want to learn coping strategies, identify triggers, learn about symptoms, and find your inner strength, then consider partnering up with me to improve your mental health.
(617) 634-8900 View (617) 634-8900
Photo of Henry Anne Velysia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Henry Anne Velysia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, utilizing evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
My ideal client is an individual facing challenges such as life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression, who seeks guidance and support in navigating their emotions and relationships. They may be grappling with self-esteem or identity issues and are motivated to better understand their needs and feelings. Their goals include building resilience, enhancing mental well-being, fostering healthy connections with others, and finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. They are open to have their believes be challenged, self-help, self-reflection, and are committed to personal growth in order to develop.
I specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, utilizing evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
My ideal client is an individual facing challenges such as life transitions, stress, anxiety, or depression, who seeks guidance and support in navigating their emotions and relationships. They may be grappling with self-esteem or identity issues and are motivated to better understand their needs and feelings. Their goals include building resilience, enhancing mental well-being, fostering healthy connections with others, and finding a sense of purpose and fulfillment in life. They are open to have their believes be challenged, self-help, self-reflection, and are committed to personal growth in order to develop.
(339) 237-3995 View (339) 237-3995
Photo of Sarah Mortimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Sarah Mortimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02452
Sarah provides individual and group counseling using DBT, CBT, Positive Psychology Model, Exposure Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and Mindfulness training.
Sarah provides a holistic approach to therapy, using a positive psychology model to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and OCD. Children, adolescents, and clients who are looking to enhance their personal growth and develop the skills necessary to live a fulfilling life benefit from counseling with Sarah. People looking to connect with themselves and others in a meaningful way in a safe and empathetic environment work successfully with Sarah.
Sarah provides individual and group counseling using DBT, CBT, Positive Psychology Model, Exposure Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, and Mindfulness training.
Sarah provides a holistic approach to therapy, using a positive psychology model to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, and OCD. Children, adolescents, and clients who are looking to enhance their personal growth and develop the skills necessary to live a fulfilling life benefit from counseling with Sarah. People looking to connect with themselves and others in a meaningful way in a safe and empathetic environment work successfully with Sarah.
(781) 630-5096 View (781) 630-5096
Photo of Sophie Hans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Sophie Hans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
I use CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused work, using mindfulness, breathing techniques, visualization, and goal setting to help clients reach their short and long-term goals.
My ideal client is someone who comes to therapy in a time of need. They might be experiencing anxiety due to life changes and transitions or they might be experiencing symptoms of anxiety for the first time and be concerne as to where the anxiety came from. The client might be processing loss or grief from a loved one or past friendships and or relationships. My ideal client will have needs such as needing to identify coping skills to get through life stressors, assistance with reaching goals. As a therapist I would be able to provide the client with a objective perspective to bounce their ideas and situations off of.
(617) 381-4485 View (617) 381-4485
Photo of Amanda Sabol, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Amanda Sabol
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453
I incorporate mind-body techniques including meditation & mindfulness & essential oils.
Currently accepting new clients. - In my practice, I work with colleges students, adults and couples seeking support in their relationships, family dynamics, life transitions, anxiety, parenting and everyday stressors. I believe therapy is a place to learn more about ourselves to find a sense of balance and improve our quality of life. I provide a safe and compassionate space for self reflection and support clients with identifying their own strengths, hidden child wounds, boundaries and self care strategies for overall growth and wellbeing.
I incorporate mind-body techniques including meditation & mindfulness & essential oils.
Currently accepting new clients. - In my practice, I work with colleges students, adults and couples seeking support in their relationships, family dynamics, life transitions, anxiety, parenting and everyday stressors. I believe therapy is a place to learn more about ourselves to find a sense of balance and improve our quality of life. I provide a safe and compassionate space for self reflection and support clients with identifying their own strengths, hidden child wounds, boundaries and self care strategies for overall growth and wellbeing.
(857) 342-9911 View (857) 342-9911
Photo of Emile Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Emile Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I weave in cognitive-behavioral skills and mindfulness techniques into my practice, while focusing on building trusting supportive relationships with my clients.
If you are struggling with a life transition or find that your anxiety and depression get in the way of you having the life that you want, I would be happy to help you work toward feeling better. Currently, my work is focusing on anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, stress management, health concerns, food allergy anxiety/trauma, adults, young adults, as well as college students. Please feel free to reach out. I'm happy to discuss if I am the right fit via free phone/telehealth consultation.
I weave in cognitive-behavioral skills and mindfulness techniques into my practice, while focusing on building trusting supportive relationships with my clients.
If you are struggling with a life transition or find that your anxiety and depression get in the way of you having the life that you want, I would be happy to help you work toward feeling better. Currently, my work is focusing on anxiety and depressive disorders, life transitions, stress management, health concerns, food allergy anxiety/trauma, adults, young adults, as well as college students. Please feel free to reach out. I'm happy to discuss if I am the right fit via free phone/telehealth consultation.
(781) 390-4341 View (781) 390-4341
Photo of Kerlie Merizier, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Kerlie Merizier
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
This includes CBT, mindfulness/meditation, DBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts, and more.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to explore their patterns, thoughts, and unique stories. They may be struggling with anxiety or depression or haven't fully processed traumas and attachment issues in their lifetime. This ideal client may be detached from their emotions, have a hard time letting go, or find it difficult to experience joy. This person is motivated for change and seeks more insight about themselves.
(617) 843-4546 View (617) 843-4546
Photo of Suzanne Burns, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Suzanne Burns
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
In addition to my private practice, I am a High School School Adjustment Counselor, former High School Guidance Counselor, iDecide Diversion Instructor/Coach and Mindfulness Instructor.
Welcome to Begin Again & Thrive Counseling and Coaching with Suzanne Burns. Are you a teen or young adult who would like to move from experiencing... self-doubt, low energy, anxiety, disconnection, poor sleep, mood fluctuations, hopelessness and begin experiencing confidence & clarity, stable reliable energy, ease in your life, connection & a sense of belonging, rejuvenating sleep, mood stability and meaning & purpose?
In addition to my private practice, I am a High School School Adjustment Counselor, former High School Guidance Counselor, iDecide Diversion Instructor/Coach and Mindfulness Instructor.
Welcome to Begin Again & Thrive Counseling and Coaching with Suzanne Burns. Are you a teen or young adult who would like to move from experiencing... self-doubt, low energy, anxiety, disconnection, poor sleep, mood fluctuations, hopelessness and begin experiencing confidence & clarity, stable reliable energy, ease in your life, connection & a sense of belonging, rejuvenating sleep, mood stability and meaning & purpose?
(617) 655-7690 View (617) 655-7690
Photo of Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451
I have 35+ years of experience and have been trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, hypnosis, mindfulness, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
I have 35+ years of experience and have been trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, hypnosis, mindfulness, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
(617) 500-1337 View (617) 500-1337
Photo of Lena Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Lena Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I use a person-centered approach and trauma-informed practices and interventions, including DBT/CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
I use a person-centered approach and trauma-informed practices and interventions, including DBT/CBT, Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy.
I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, and Families of First responders and marginalized communities struggling with the challenges of complex trauma impacting mental health, including Anxiety, Depressive disorders, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
(339) 237-3995 View (339) 237-3995
Photo of Amy Schully, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Amy Schully
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
I believe that through a holistic, person-centered lens and by utilizing mindfulness and other evidence-based practices, I can help you access a feeling of greater inner peace and healing.
I am interested in working with clients who want to show up to make gradual improvements in their personal and interpersonal relationships and lives. Ideally, my clients come from a variety of backgrounds and carry vastly different experiences; however, all possess a desire for exploring and healing wounds.
I believe that through a holistic, person-centered lens and by utilizing mindfulness and other evidence-based practices, I can help you access a feeling of greater inner peace and healing.
I am interested in working with clients who want to show up to make gradual improvements in their personal and interpersonal relationships and lives. Ideally, my clients come from a variety of backgrounds and carry vastly different experiences; however, all possess a desire for exploring and healing wounds.
(617) 941-3549 View (617) 941-3549
Photo of Ivy Olcott, Counselor in Waltham, MA
Ivy Olcott
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02451  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Ivy. I work with adults with concerns such as anxiety associated with vocational, familial, academic, and relational stress; life changes, adjustment disorders, panic disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, and neurodiversity. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Positive Psychology to help clients achieve their goals.
Hello! I'm Ivy. I work with adults with concerns such as anxiety associated with vocational, familial, academic, and relational stress; life changes, adjustment disorders, panic disorders, depression, LGBTQ+, and neurodiversity. I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Positive Psychology to help clients achieve their goals.
(508) 594-3295 View (508) 594-3295
Photo of Claudia Sousa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Claudia Sousa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy combines elements of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic exercises to achieve balance of the the mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client seeks support to address challenges related to life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and the myriad of challenges of day to day life. The client has a desire to integrate holistic wellness practices into their daily lives that addresses their individual needs, goals, and supports and empowers them to create a life they love. I utilize a diverse clinical approach that is strength-based and client centered to help clients achieve their goals. I am a bilingual practitioner and am fluent in Cape Verdean Creole
My approach to psychotherapy combines elements of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and somatic exercises to achieve balance of the the mind, body, and spirit.
My ideal client seeks support to address challenges related to life transitions, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, and the myriad of challenges of day to day life. The client has a desire to integrate holistic wellness practices into their daily lives that addresses their individual needs, goals, and supports and empowers them to create a life they love. I utilize a diverse clinical approach that is strength-based and client centered to help clients achieve their goals. I am a bilingual practitioner and am fluent in Cape Verdean Creole
(508) 406-9934 View (508) 406-9934
Photo of Anna-dora Maloney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Waltham, MA
Anna-dora Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02451  (Online Only)
Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness and meditation, I have helped clients navigate pain and difficulties they have experienced and have helped clients to make the changes they want in their lives.
We all go through challenging times and it takes a great deal of courage to face these challenges and move forward. My passion is working with adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, a life transition, a loss or an illness. I work with each of my clients to identify tools and strategies that they can use to address these difficulties, feel better, and lead a more fulfilling life in whatever way they hope to. I believe that each person has inner strength and resilience that they can increase, and that you are stronger than you think.
Using a blend of behavioral health techniques including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness and meditation, I have helped clients navigate pain and difficulties they have experienced and have helped clients to make the changes they want in their lives.
We all go through challenging times and it takes a great deal of courage to face these challenges and move forward. My passion is working with adults of all ages who may be struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, a life transition, a loss or an illness. I work with each of my clients to identify tools and strategies that they can use to address these difficulties, feel better, and lead a more fulfilling life in whatever way they hope to. I believe that each person has inner strength and resilience that they can increase, and that you are stronger than you think.
(617) 855-0253 View (617) 855-0253
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.