Photo of Michael Bombardier, Psychologist in Towson, MD
Michael Bombardier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
I take an active approach, using mindfulness training, cognitive restructuring and behavioral assignments between sessions to make treatment more engaging, enjoyable and worthwhile. While empathy and compassion are the core of therapy, simply talking about a problem is often not enough to bring about meaningful and lasting change. I specialize in treating many forms of anxiety, but I am trained and experienced in treating a wide rage of mental health problems and, in any case, I approach therapy with the assumption that you are far more complex and interesting than any diagnosis can fully capture.
I take an active approach, using mindfulness training, cognitive restructuring and behavioral assignments between sessions to make treatment more engaging, enjoyable and worthwhile. While empathy and compassion are the core of therapy, simply talking about a problem is often not enough to bring about meaningful and lasting change. I specialize in treating many forms of anxiety, but I am trained and experienced in treating a wide rage of mental health problems and, in any case, I approach therapy with the assumption that you are far more complex and interesting than any diagnosis can fully capture.
(410) 734-2142 View (410) 734-2142
Photo of James Spruill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
James Spruill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
I utilize an integrative approach that incorporates aspects of Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Developing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy and fulfilling relationships, and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to identify underlying patterns of behaving, relating, and experiencing that may be contributing to conflict in your life.
I utilize an integrative approach that incorporates aspects of Relational Psychodynamic Theory, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Developing a meaningful therapeutic connection is the foundation for learning how to improve one's quality of life, develop healthy and fulfilling relationships, and cope more effectively with life stressors. Through the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to identify underlying patterns of behaving, relating, and experiencing that may be contributing to conflict in your life.
(443) 241-6352 View (443) 241-6352
Photo of Peter Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Peter Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
In order to help my clients learn to care for themselves and connect to others, I use a combination of mindfulness based cognitive therapy, psychoanalysis, and logotherapy in an environment of acceptance, unconditional positive regard, and personal accountability.
We all suffer, and we all have to cope with it. I can help relieve people of suffering caused by maladaptive patterns of feeling, thinking and behaving that they have been conditioned to repeat over time. I do this by building a relationship with them, then allowing that relationship to be the template for healthy interactions in life and a realistic perception of themselves and their situation.
In order to help my clients learn to care for themselves and connect to others, I use a combination of mindfulness based cognitive therapy, psychoanalysis, and logotherapy in an environment of acceptance, unconditional positive regard, and personal accountability.
We all suffer, and we all have to cope with it. I can help relieve people of suffering caused by maladaptive patterns of feeling, thinking and behaving that they have been conditioned to repeat over time. I do this by building a relationship with them, then allowing that relationship to be the template for healthy interactions in life and a realistic perception of themselves and their situation.
(240) 557-8805 View (240) 557-8805
Photo of Greg Pelletier, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Towson, MD
Greg Pelletier
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Greg works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, ADHD, and trauma. He focuses on treating each person as unique and seeks to understand them from their specific life experience. Greg works collaboratively with clients to develop a mindfulness perspective to address anxiety, sadness, and depression so that they may experience a sense of peace and joy in their life.
Greg works with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship difficulties, ADHD, and trauma. He focuses on treating each person as unique and seeks to understand them from their specific life experience. Greg works collaboratively with clients to develop a mindfulness perspective to address anxiety, sadness, and depression so that they may experience a sense of peace and joy in their life.
(443) 222-0969 View (443) 222-0969
Photo of Jim Krebs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Jim Krebs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
I incorporate mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral approaches to therapy as well.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) who uses a client-centered approach when providing counseling services to adults of all backgrounds. I start working with clients where they are in their lives and use a strength-based approach to help clients explore their issues and offer them appropriate strategies and advice targeted to improve these areas of concern. I guide and support clients in implementing the necessary changes to improve peer and family relationships, emotional health, and overall quality of life at home, work, or at school.
I incorporate mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral approaches to therapy as well.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) who uses a client-centered approach when providing counseling services to adults of all backgrounds. I start working with clients where they are in their lives and use a strength-based approach to help clients explore their issues and offer them appropriate strategies and advice targeted to improve these areas of concern. I guide and support clients in implementing the necessary changes to improve peer and family relationships, emotional health, and overall quality of life at home, work, or at school.
(410) 734-5049 View (410) 734-5049
Photo of Ralph Piper, Psychologist in Towson, MD
Ralph Piper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
With over 25 years of experience as a psychologist and career, life, and dissertation coach, I help people get unstuck. I work cooperatively with you, and together we create a way to address your particular concerns. Using cognitive and integrative therapy approaches, coaching and methods such as building mindfulness skills, developing more helpful coping strategies and body awareness, I will help you move to a "place" that feels more "like you." That place could be geographic, career or job related, or a place of personal growth and is psychically healthier than the place you started.
With over 25 years of experience as a psychologist and career, life, and dissertation coach, I help people get unstuck. I work cooperatively with you, and together we create a way to address your particular concerns. Using cognitive and integrative therapy approaches, coaching and methods such as building mindfulness skills, developing more helpful coping strategies and body awareness, I will help you move to a "place" that feels more "like you." That place could be geographic, career or job related, or a place of personal growth and is psychically healthier than the place you started.
(609) 256-6416 View (609) 256-6416
Photo of Michael Heady, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Towson, MD
Michael Heady
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
My goal as a counselor is to provide support and guidance for people who want to make positive changes in their life. I provide counseling for a variety of life's problems including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and general life stressors. I have specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of OCD, panic, agoraphobia, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I approach treatment as a collaborative process between the client and myself; utilizing integrative, evidence-based interventions like ERP, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness. I also offer inference-based CBT, a evidence-based, non-exposure treatment for OCD.
My goal as a counselor is to provide support and guidance for people who want to make positive changes in their life. I provide counseling for a variety of life's problems including anxiety, depression, relationship issues and general life stressors. I have specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of OCD, panic, agoraphobia, social anxiety, and specific phobias. I approach treatment as a collaborative process between the client and myself; utilizing integrative, evidence-based interventions like ERP, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness. I also offer inference-based CBT, a evidence-based, non-exposure treatment for OCD.
(443) 333-9570 View (443) 333-9570
Photo of Alan Kutner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Alan Kutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21252  (Online Only)
I am a licensed MD psychotherapist with advanced training in IFS, DBT, mindfulness, trauma & anxiety.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
I am a licensed MD psychotherapist with advanced training in IFS, DBT, mindfulness, trauma & anxiety.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
(443) 402-3606 View (443) 402-3606
Photo of It's Time to Heal! Schedule an Appointment Today!, Counselor in Towson, MD
It's Time to Heal! Schedule an Appointment Today!
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I utilize treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness techniques to help you achieve a happier and healthier mental state.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxious thoughts? Are the trials of everyday life trapping you in a cycle of depression? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event that has happened to you? You are not alone, and you do not have to continue struggling. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere that allows you to express yourself openly and freely. As a client of mine, I will help you work through whatever it is you are currently experiencing and help you work towards a happier tomorrow.
I utilize treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness techniques to help you achieve a happier and healthier mental state.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxious thoughts? Are the trials of everyday life trapping you in a cycle of depression? Maybe you are having a hard time processing a traumatic event that has happened to you? You are not alone, and you do not have to continue struggling. I will provide a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere that allows you to express yourself openly and freely. As a client of mine, I will help you work through whatever it is you are currently experiencing and help you work towards a happier tomorrow.
(540) 501-6736 View (540) 501-6736
Photo of Alexander Persons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Alexander Persons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I use elements of CBT, ACT, Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness, and always with a trauma-informed approach.
Congratulations on taking this important step in your life! It takes courage to ask for help. Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety for the future? Do you often feel like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel, exhausted from running but don’t know how to get off? Are you concerned about your use of substances? Have you lost connection with your true self who is excited to experience the world? You are not alone, though it may often feel like it. I understand and I believe I can help! Whether it's substance use, trauma, anxiety, chronic health concerns, or a combination of issues, we can build an plan of action and acceptance.
I use elements of CBT, ACT, Polyvagal Theory, and Mindfulness, and always with a trauma-informed approach.
Congratulations on taking this important step in your life! It takes courage to ask for help. Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety for the future? Do you often feel like you’re stuck on a hamster wheel, exhausted from running but don’t know how to get off? Are you concerned about your use of substances? Have you lost connection with your true self who is excited to experience the world? You are not alone, though it may often feel like it. I understand and I believe I can help! Whether it's substance use, trauma, anxiety, chronic health concerns, or a combination of issues, we can build an plan of action and acceptance.
(443) 718-0496 x105 View (443) 718-0496 x105
Photo of Brent L Jones, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Towson, MD
Brent L Jones
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I'm trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis intervention, and motivational interviewing.
I believe that every person has a desire to improve his or her quality of life, and it is my responsibility to assist those seeking help with that task. I do so by working with the client to develop attainable and measurable treatment goals, while dissecting all facets of the presenting problem. My approach is one of deep exploration with the aim of, in conjunction with the client, developing solutions that can be applied in the immediate and long term. My training is in crisis stabilization, grief support, and substance abuse with co-occurring mental health issues.
I'm trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, crisis intervention, and motivational interviewing.
I believe that every person has a desire to improve his or her quality of life, and it is my responsibility to assist those seeking help with that task. I do so by working with the client to develop attainable and measurable treatment goals, while dissecting all facets of the presenting problem. My approach is one of deep exploration with the aim of, in conjunction with the client, developing solutions that can be applied in the immediate and long term. My training is in crisis stabilization, grief support, and substance abuse with co-occurring mental health issues.
(443) 222-1816 View (443) 222-1816
Photo of John D Gartner, Psychologist in Towson, MD
John D Gartner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
Mindfulness, especially when combined with therapy, provides objective self-awareness, calm, and self-control, and thus, more meditation can mean less medication.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
Mindfulness, especially when combined with therapy, provides objective self-awareness, calm, and self-control, and thus, more meditation can mean less medication.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS REMOTELY AND IN PERSON: I've practiced psychotherapy for over 40 years, and during that time also taught psychiatric residents at Johns Hopkins Medical School. My areas of specialization are bipolar type 2 and borderline personality disorder. I've also worked with many entrepreneurs since the publication of my book, The Hypomanic Edge: The Link Between (a Little) Craziness and (a Lot of ) Success in America.
(410) 305-9221 View (410) 305-9221
Photo of Alan Kutner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Alan Kutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
I am a licensed MD psychotherapist with advanced training in IFS, DBT, mindfulness, trauma & anxiety.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
I am a licensed MD psychotherapist with advanced training in IFS, DBT, mindfulness, trauma & anxiety.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
(240) 635-9254 View (240) 635-9254
Photo of Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Dr. Michael M. Librie, PsyD, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sound Baths, Anger Management, Self-Esteem, Grief, Mindfulness/Contemplative Practices, Addiction and co-occurring disorders.
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sound Baths, Anger Management, Self-Esteem, Grief, Mindfulness/Contemplative Practices, Addiction and co-occurring disorders.
I'm Michael Librie, Psy.D, LCSW-C, LICSW. I'm a Psychotherapist with over 35 years experience, qualified to provide integrative psychotherapy, combining techniques from various therapeutic schools to suit the needs of the client. I am delivering therapy virtually at this time in Maryland, Washington, DC and North Carolina. My approach combines traditional dynamic psychotherapy with awareness and internal inquiry processes. I partner with you to help guide you to focus inward so that you may experience your core self, listen to your soul and find your personal truth.
(410) 376-8209 View (410) 376-8209
Photo of Tim Holt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Tim Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21252
I draw upon aspects of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT & mindfulness.
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
I draw upon aspects of motivational interviewing, CBT, DBT & mindfulness.
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
(443) 494-6114 View (443) 494-6114
Photo of Milton Pittman, Counselor in Towson, MD
Milton Pittman
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21252  (Online Only)
I utilize a Person-Centered approach anchored by CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Mindfulness techniques.
You are not alone, there is a confidential ear available to you. There are various sources of stress in the world. I will provide you a comfortable setting to build trust without judgement in order to grow. When your days of sadness seem to increase by the week, sleep is hard to get, and you desire a different life, there is HOPE. What is needed to change your life is within you. The desire, strength, and courage needed to take this journey are within your grasp.
I utilize a Person-Centered approach anchored by CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Mindfulness techniques.
You are not alone, there is a confidential ear available to you. There are various sources of stress in the world. I will provide you a comfortable setting to build trust without judgement in order to grow. When your days of sadness seem to increase by the week, sleep is hard to get, and you desire a different life, there is HOPE. What is needed to change your life is within you. The desire, strength, and courage needed to take this journey are within your grasp.
(410) 412-3758 View (410) 412-3758
Photo of John Magee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
John Magee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
I draw from many different theories and modalities such as attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, and mindfulness practices (both of body and mind).
I am a Certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for over 10 years. I work mainly with adults experiencing including anxiety and mood disorders, trauma (including PTSD), psychosis, substance abuse, or more general life and relational stressors. I believe in a person-centered approach, providing a non-judgmental, safe space to work on identifying root causes of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and to develop an awareness into a healthier, more integrative sense of self and of the world.
I draw from many different theories and modalities such as attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, and mindfulness practices (both of body and mind).
I am a Certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for over 10 years. I work mainly with adults experiencing including anxiety and mood disorders, trauma (including PTSD), psychosis, substance abuse, or more general life and relational stressors. I believe in a person-centered approach, providing a non-judgmental, safe space to work on identifying root causes of maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and to develop an awareness into a healthier, more integrative sense of self and of the world.
(410) 936-7259 View (410) 936-7259
Photo of James Cole Abrams, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Towson, MD
James Cole Abrams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LAC, CMIT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21204
I combine Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices with motivational interviewing and existential therapeutic techniques to help my clients tap into their inner strengths.
Substance abuse is not a problem, it's a symptom. Many of us carry a deep pain within, and work to hide it behind substance and behavioral addictions. Often what looks like selfish or harmful behavior is really just a person's best effort at dealing with the pain, frustration, and disconnection they feel every day. As a therapist, my aim is to provide the warmth, stability, and emotional space for you to safely and effectively explore what you need in order to grow into who you know you can be.
I combine Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices with motivational interviewing and existential therapeutic techniques to help my clients tap into their inner strengths.
Substance abuse is not a problem, it's a symptom. Many of us carry a deep pain within, and work to hide it behind substance and behavioral addictions. Often what looks like selfish or harmful behavior is really just a person's best effort at dealing with the pain, frustration, and disconnection they feel every day. As a therapist, my aim is to provide the warmth, stability, and emotional space for you to safely and effectively explore what you need in order to grow into who you know you can be.
(301) 579-0409 View (301) 579-0409
Photo of Tyler Howard, Counselor in Towson, MD
Tyler Howard
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21286
I believe counseling should focus on supporting the client in building a life worth living. Only you know what life "fits" you best, but it is helpful to have someone along for that journey, to point out lessons along the way! My goal is to help you identify what in your life keeps you stuck, what roles and values fulfill you, and to minimize the former while maximizing the latter. What kind of life "fits" you? Let's find out! "The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." -Carl Jung. www.invisiblethreadcounseling.com
I believe counseling should focus on supporting the client in building a life worth living. Only you know what life "fits" you best, but it is helpful to have someone along for that journey, to point out lessons along the way! My goal is to help you identify what in your life keeps you stuck, what roles and values fulfill you, and to minimize the former while maximizing the latter. What kind of life "fits" you? Let's find out! "The shoe that fits one person pinches another; there is no recipe for living that suits all cases." -Carl Jung. www.invisiblethreadcounseling.com
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Photo of Patrick Stuart Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Towson, MD
Patrick Stuart Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Waitlist for new clients
For me personally, I find that any client is an ideal client. Every individual has within them their own internal timeline, mechanism, and capacity for change that is inherently correct for them. I do my best to respect this as a clinician. I do ask for an honest accounting of oneself to the best of their ability. If this is successfully reached, then the possibility for healing and moving forward from mental anguish is possible. It is my professional belief that when both the client and the therapist are fully open to the process that the work truly begins.
For me personally, I find that any client is an ideal client. Every individual has within them their own internal timeline, mechanism, and capacity for change that is inherently correct for them. I do my best to respect this as a clinician. I do ask for an honest accounting of oneself to the best of their ability. If this is successfully reached, then the possibility for healing and moving forward from mental anguish is possible. It is my professional belief that when both the client and the therapist are fully open to the process that the work truly begins.
(443) 373-0740 View (443) 373-0740
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.