Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists in San Diego, CA

Photo of Preston Lavin, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Diego, CA
Preston Lavin
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110
Hi there, need some help? I believe anyone can benefit from engaging in therapy. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental approach to help individuals discover their innate strengths, values, and resiliency. My clinical approach is eclectic, incorporating Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am currently seeing patients online and in our San Diego office. Please e-mail me or feel free to text/call me on (619) 510-0005 to make an appointment. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and strive to create a safe, inclusive, judgment-free space for clients to explore and heal.
Hi there, need some help? I believe anyone can benefit from engaging in therapy. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental approach to help individuals discover their innate strengths, values, and resiliency. My clinical approach is eclectic, incorporating Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I am currently seeing patients online and in our San Diego office. Please e-mail me or feel free to text/call me on (619) 510-0005 to make an appointment. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community and strive to create a safe, inclusive, judgment-free space for clients to explore and heal.
(619) 853-6048 View (619) 853-6048
Photo of Brittany Grace, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Brittany Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy to individuals and couples throughout California and Virginia. My services are provided via tele-health therapy. I conduct therapy through a mindfulness approach, utilizing strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. Born and raised in San Diego, I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology and my master's degree in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy at San Diego State University.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides therapy to individuals and couples throughout California and Virginia. My services are provided via tele-health therapy. I conduct therapy through a mindfulness approach, utilizing strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. Born and raised in San Diego, I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology and my master's degree in Counseling with a specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy at San Diego State University.
(619) 333-5774 View (619) 333-5774
Photo of Lisa Graff-Marsh LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lisa Graff-Marsh LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92117
Waitlist for new clients
They are Accelerated Dynamic Experiential Psychotherapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Contemporary Psychoanalysis, and Mindfulness.
I have been a private practice therapist since February 1992. The client population that comes through my office are individuals and couples that are struggling in various ways. My passion is to help people get in touch with their authentic selves, access core emotions, become more present in their lives, more connected, in touch and able to identify the sensations that happen inside one's body. This happens through compassion, connection, empathy, curiosity and the realization you do not have to struggle alone. This process helps the client to live a fuller, more satisfying productive life.
They are Accelerated Dynamic Experiential Psychotherapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Contemporary Psychoanalysis, and Mindfulness.
I have been a private practice therapist since February 1992. The client population that comes through my office are individuals and couples that are struggling in various ways. My passion is to help people get in touch with their authentic selves, access core emotions, become more present in their lives, more connected, in touch and able to identify the sensations that happen inside one's body. This happens through compassion, connection, empathy, curiosity and the realization you do not have to struggle alone. This process helps the client to live a fuller, more satisfying productive life.
(858) 758-8357 View (858) 758-8357
Photo of Christina Nicole Cabral, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Christina Nicole Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
(619) 762-3626 View (619) 762-3626
Photo of Katherine Pica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Katherine Pica, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Have you tried therapy before with no success? There is hope and you are not alone. I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in ERP, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Skills. These are tools that we can work on together, to help you live a more fulfilled life. Therapy can help you get freedom over issues that are holding you back from your true potential and goals in life. With over 15 years of experience I can help and guide you to learn to break free from old patterns and negative thoughts to tune into our true resilience.
Maybe you are feeling overwhelmed and stuck? Have you tried therapy before with no success? There is hope and you are not alone. I specialize in compassionate evidenced based therapy for Anxiety, OCD and Trauma. I am trained in ERP, CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness Skills. These are tools that we can work on together, to help you live a more fulfilled life. Therapy can help you get freedom over issues that are holding you back from your true potential and goals in life. With over 15 years of experience I can help and guide you to learn to break free from old patterns and negative thoughts to tune into our true resilience.
(858) 266-9613 View (858) 266-9613
Photo of Amber Merziotis, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Amber Merziotis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, Somatic
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
I offer tools and practices such as mindfulness, somatic awareness, and nervous system calming strategies to help clients meet all parts of themselves with increased curiosity and loving kindness.
I love being a therapist and feel honored to be a part of my clients’ wellness journey. Specializing in trauma-informed somatic therapy, I help people tap into their body’s wisdom to help them feel more integrated in body, mind and spirit. No matter what you are experiencing, you will be met with warmth, patience, and curiosity.
I offer tools and practices such as mindfulness, somatic awareness, and nervous system calming strategies to help clients meet all parts of themselves with increased curiosity and loving kindness.
I love being a therapist and feel honored to be a part of my clients’ wellness journey. Specializing in trauma-informed somatic therapy, I help people tap into their body’s wisdom to help them feel more integrated in body, mind and spirit. No matter what you are experiencing, you will be met with warmth, patience, and curiosity.
(619) 432-4810 View (619) 432-4810
Photo of Blanca Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Blanca Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122  (Online Only)
I often use Psychodynamics, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based approaches as they assist me and my client in developing a mutual understanding of their current circumstances.
My approach has been a great fit for adolescents and adults seeking guidance in navigating life challenges. I use evidence-based practices to guide clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors that may cause impairment. I work in collaboration with my clients to build skills that will allow them to gain confidence, autonomy, and the ability to take control of their own life. My role is to support the client in achieving meaningful goals that promote personal growth and well-being. This can be done through the assessment and exploration process, exploring motivation, and celebrating success
I often use Psychodynamics, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based approaches as they assist me and my client in developing a mutual understanding of their current circumstances.
My approach has been a great fit for adolescents and adults seeking guidance in navigating life challenges. I use evidence-based practices to guide clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors that may cause impairment. I work in collaboration with my clients to build skills that will allow them to gain confidence, autonomy, and the ability to take control of their own life. My role is to support the client in achieving meaningful goals that promote personal growth and well-being. This can be done through the assessment and exploration process, exploring motivation, and celebrating success
(858) 213-0409 View (858) 213-0409
Photo of Jennifer Reimer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jennifer Reimer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121
I utilize CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy to empower others to enhance self respect, find meaningful relationships, and feel connected to the world around them.
Do you often feel that you're moving through life without purpose or a clear path forward? Perhaps you experience life as if it's happening to you. Together, our goal is to finding a life worth living and find ways to live your day to day with more intentionality. We'll build coping skills, shift a passive approach of determining your life, and get you to a place of better understanding your own goals and values—not trying to embody your family’s or society’s vision of life.
I utilize CBT, mindfulness, narrative therapy, DBT, and solution focused therapy to empower others to enhance self respect, find meaningful relationships, and feel connected to the world around them.
Do you often feel that you're moving through life without purpose or a clear path forward? Perhaps you experience life as if it's happening to you. Together, our goal is to finding a life worth living and find ways to live your day to day with more intentionality. We'll build coping skills, shift a passive approach of determining your life, and get you to a place of better understanding your own goals and values—not trying to embody your family’s or society’s vision of life.
(619) 268-3048 View (619) 268-3048
Photo of Dana Leigh Schmidt, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dana Leigh Schmidt
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness-based strategies, values and skill building to help clients create the life they want and effectively manage inevitable challenges.
I love what I do and I believe that shines through in every interaction I have with my clients. My approach to treatment is collaborative and I work with clients to build a life they want to live through goal identification, skill building and a balanced commitment to the things they care about the most. I have a wide range of training and experience in working with emotional, behavioral and physical health challenges.
I utilize cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness-based strategies, values and skill building to help clients create the life they want and effectively manage inevitable challenges.
I love what I do and I believe that shines through in every interaction I have with my clients. My approach to treatment is collaborative and I work with clients to build a life they want to live through goal identification, skill building and a balanced commitment to the things they care about the most. I have a wide range of training and experience in working with emotional, behavioral and physical health challenges.
(858) 358-6525 View (858) 358-6525
Photo of Jennifer Rickard, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Jennifer Rickard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I utilize psychotherapy, EMDR, meditation and mindfulness practices and other holistic modalities to facilitate the growth and change you seek.
Are you seeking support in moving through a life or relational challenge? Sometimes we all need support in finding creative solutions or building strong relationships. As a couple and family therapist, I have a strong conviction in the healing power of healthy relationships.  Connecting to your authentic self and fostering wellness in all relationships in your life is a primary focus of my work.  I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy for youth and adults of all family and relationship constellations, and I create a supportive space in which to explore gender, sexuality, sexual expression and relationship styles.
I utilize psychotherapy, EMDR, meditation and mindfulness practices and other holistic modalities to facilitate the growth and change you seek.
Are you seeking support in moving through a life or relational challenge? Sometimes we all need support in finding creative solutions or building strong relationships. As a couple and family therapist, I have a strong conviction in the healing power of healthy relationships.  Connecting to your authentic self and fostering wellness in all relationships in your life is a primary focus of my work.  I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy for youth and adults of all family and relationship constellations, and I create a supportive space in which to explore gender, sexuality, sexual expression and relationship styles.
(619) 457-6022 View (619) 457-6022
Photo of Alana Hecker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alana Hecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121
This experience has been diverse, with a sample including the treatment of Addiction & Mental Health in residential care, healing Loss and Grief & Reinventing oneself, Executive Functioning issues with Young Adults and their families, Yoga therapy and Mindfulness based practices.
Our rapport, and discovering what is deeply meaningful and valuable to you will be the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to support your happiness and success by understanding your beliefs, and what you hold dear in your heart. I will gently challenge you when I see obstacles that are not supporting your well being. I will simultaneously encourage you to draw from your natural gifts and strengths. I commit to utilizing evidence based interventions that are effective, empowering, and that promote self compassion. I understand the vulnerability of seeking help, and I commend your willingness to grow.
This experience has been diverse, with a sample including the treatment of Addiction & Mental Health in residential care, healing Loss and Grief & Reinventing oneself, Executive Functioning issues with Young Adults and their families, Yoga therapy and Mindfulness based practices.
Our rapport, and discovering what is deeply meaningful and valuable to you will be the foundation of our therapeutic relationship. My primary goal is to support your happiness and success by understanding your beliefs, and what you hold dear in your heart. I will gently challenge you when I see obstacles that are not supporting your well being. I will simultaneously encourage you to draw from your natural gifts and strengths. I commit to utilizing evidence based interventions that are effective, empowering, and that promote self compassion. I understand the vulnerability of seeking help, and I commend your willingness to grow.
(858) 381-4705 View (858) 381-4705
Photo of Laura J Proctor, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Laura J Proctor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and positive psychology.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and positive psychology.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
(858) 304-7640 View (858) 304-7640
Photo of Kelly Engleson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Kelly Engleson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103  (Online Only)
I have training in mindfulness, self-compassion skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, perinatal mental health, and grief and loss.
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
I have training in mindfulness, self-compassion skills, cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, perinatal mental health, and grief and loss.
I help adults who are struggling with issues of infertility, bereavement, grief and loss and life transitions. My clients are those who are yearning to be parents, have endured loss, sadness and anxiety while utilizing assisted reproductive technology in efforts to conceive and those facing multiple challenges on their path to parenthood. I also work with adults who have endured many different types of losses (death of a loved one, divorce, job loss, losses due to chronic illness...) and struggle to find ways to move forward. I work with young adults who are navigating issues of purpose and identity.
(619) 728-2537 View (619) 728-2537
Photo of Brett Rash, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Brett Rash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92122
I blend CBT, DBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused approaches to tailor therapy to your needs, targeting trauma and depression.
If you find yourself caught in the grips of trauma and depression, feeling both the weight of the past and the heaviness of the present, know that hope and help are within reach. My practice is devoted to those who are ready to face these challenges head-on, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. Whether you're struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent sadness, or a sense of hopelessness, I'm here to offer a supportive, empowering space for healing and growth. Together, we can uncover the strength and resilience within you, paving the way for a more hopeful, fulfilling future
I blend CBT, DBT, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Trauma-Focused approaches to tailor therapy to your needs, targeting trauma and depression.
If you find yourself caught in the grips of trauma and depression, feeling both the weight of the past and the heaviness of the present, know that hope and help are within reach. My practice is devoted to those who are ready to face these challenges head-on, seeking not just to survive but to thrive. Whether you're struggling with unresolved trauma, persistent sadness, or a sense of hopelessness, I'm here to offer a supportive, empowering space for healing and growth. Together, we can uncover the strength and resilience within you, paving the way for a more hopeful, fulfilling future
(619) 257-3615 View (619) 257-3615
Photo of Rachel Mitchell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Rachel Mitchell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108  (Online Only)
I specialize in issues surrounding life adjustments, depression and anxiety, school/sports performance, domestic violence, intrapersonal relationships in families, developmental disabilities, mindfulness, and behavior modification.
Are you looking to increase your healing and well-being? It is common for our instincts to lead us to stay away from uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Sometimes we may feel depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or plain tired from issues that arise that we may not be able to solve on our own, and that is ok! Whether you have a short-term goal that can be reached in a few weeks or a long-term goal that can be reached in a few years, we will work together step by step to break down barriers and set you up for success on a daily basis.
I specialize in issues surrounding life adjustments, depression and anxiety, school/sports performance, domestic violence, intrapersonal relationships in families, developmental disabilities, mindfulness, and behavior modification.
Are you looking to increase your healing and well-being? It is common for our instincts to lead us to stay away from uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Sometimes we may feel depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, or plain tired from issues that arise that we may not be able to solve on our own, and that is ok! Whether you have a short-term goal that can be reached in a few weeks or a long-term goal that can be reached in a few years, we will work together step by step to break down barriers and set you up for success on a daily basis.
(619) 367-8873 View (619) 367-8873
Photo of Adriana Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Adriana Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92114
Hi there, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals 12 yrs. and older and specialize in anxiety and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness help relieve physical and emotional symptoms. I have found that my style and approach is effective with individuals of all ages experiencing stress from a life event or the everyday pressures.
Hi there, I'm Adriana! My name is Adriana Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Hypnotherapist (CHt) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals 12 yrs. and older and specialize in anxiety and depression, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness help relieve physical and emotional symptoms. I have found that my style and approach is effective with individuals of all ages experiencing stress from a life event or the everyday pressures.
(858) 879-3007 View (858) 879-3007
Photo of Sara Cloostermans - Mindfulness & Trauma Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sara Cloostermans - Mindfulness & Trauma Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92106  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With MINDFULNESS I will help you to: *Observe yourself, others and your environment with awareness and without judgment because acknowledging thoughts, feelings and actions, as well as your surroundings, will widen your worldview: ACCEPTANCE BEFORE POSITIVE CHANGE *Create balance between your emotional and rational brain because knowing how to stay emotionally regulated will help you with decision-making from a pro-active place instead of a reactive one: REASONABLE MIND BEFORE EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS *Focus on one task at the time and on the present because mono-tasking and being in the "here-and-now" will help you connect to your purpose: SPECIFIC GOALS BEFORE SUCCESS
With MINDFULNESS I will help you to: *Observe yourself, others and your environment with awareness and without judgment because acknowledging thoughts, feelings and actions, as well as your surroundings, will widen your worldview: ACCEPTANCE BEFORE POSITIVE CHANGE *Create balance between your emotional and rational brain because knowing how to stay emotionally regulated will help you with decision-making from a pro-active place instead of a reactive one: REASONABLE MIND BEFORE EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS *Focus on one task at the time and on the present because mono-tasking and being in the "here-and-now" will help you connect to your purpose: SPECIFIC GOALS BEFORE SUCCESS
(858) 239-1617 View (858) 239-1617
Photo of Lara J. Duff, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lara J. Duff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92117
Mind, body, spirit balance, mindfulness and self care.
Why do you postpone yourself? -Seneca. You made it to the beginning of something life changing and awesome! I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Owner of Eudaimonia Therapy, Llc. I am compelled to share this journey in self awareness with you. I treat individual adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges; obsessive compulsive behaviors, anxiety, addiction, mood disorders, aggression, co -dependency issues, trauma, etc. An area of interest is Women’s Issues, connecting with our own inner strength, beauty and grace as Women, and embracing our feminine spirit.
Mind, body, spirit balance, mindfulness and self care.
Why do you postpone yourself? -Seneca. You made it to the beginning of something life changing and awesome! I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Owner of Eudaimonia Therapy, Llc. I am compelled to share this journey in self awareness with you. I treat individual adults experiencing a variety of mental health challenges; obsessive compulsive behaviors, anxiety, addiction, mood disorders, aggression, co -dependency issues, trauma, etc. An area of interest is Women’s Issues, connecting with our own inner strength, beauty and grace as Women, and embracing our feminine spirit.
(619) 432-4860 View (619) 432-4860
Photo of ANKH Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
ANKH Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
Each session is tailored to your specific needs, with a variety of evidenced based practices: EMDR, mindfulness, visualization, psycho-education, expressive art, talk therapy and homework.
Welcome to my mobile practice, where I bring the healing to you! Licensed since 1997, I offer a wealth of professional and personal lived experience to assist you with both your individual and family needs. If you join me we will work together to reach your goals. It is hard work to become our best selves & live our best lives, free from harmful responses due to wounds & holes, left over from an earlier life. You will have the support to overcome obstacles to healing the past, staying present and embracing the future, all this while developing a better understanding & acceptance for yourself, and others just as you are.
Each session is tailored to your specific needs, with a variety of evidenced based practices: EMDR, mindfulness, visualization, psycho-education, expressive art, talk therapy and homework.
Welcome to my mobile practice, where I bring the healing to you! Licensed since 1997, I offer a wealth of professional and personal lived experience to assist you with both your individual and family needs. If you join me we will work together to reach your goals. It is hard work to become our best selves & live our best lives, free from harmful responses due to wounds & holes, left over from an earlier life. You will have the support to overcome obstacles to healing the past, staying present and embracing the future, all this while developing a better understanding & acceptance for yourself, and others just as you are.
(619) 332-4808 View (619) 332-4808
Photo of Tara N Milanes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Diego, CA
Tara N Milanes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105  (Online Only)
I often incorporate mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS strategies to help you develop effective coping skills and foster a sense of self-compassion.
Hi there! Thank you for being here, and congrats on taking the first steps towards healing and self-discovery! I'm here to work with and support you through life's ever evolving challenges through curiosity, compassion, and empathy. I believe that our early significant relationships, as well as difficult situations in the past play a role in the way we navigate issues in the present. I aim for therapy to be a warm and welcoming space where you can feel at ease discussing these experiences.
I often incorporate mindfulness, CBT, DBT, ACT, and IFS strategies to help you develop effective coping skills and foster a sense of self-compassion.
Hi there! Thank you for being here, and congrats on taking the first steps towards healing and self-discovery! I'm here to work with and support you through life's ever evolving challenges through curiosity, compassion, and empathy. I believe that our early significant relationships, as well as difficult situations in the past play a role in the way we navigate issues in the present. I aim for therapy to be a warm and welcoming space where you can feel at ease discussing these experiences.
(562) 662-3932 View (562) 662-3932
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.