Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
MBCT combines the principles of mindfulness with CBT.
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy that incorporates principles of mindfulness and CBT.
1) Mindfulness is a state of being, where one is fully present in the moment and does not judge or react to their thoughts and emotions.
2) The other main component of Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy is cognitive behavioural therapy techniques.
An MBCT therapist aims to:
teach you how to prevent negative automatic thoughts and feelings from triggering unhelpful behaviours
teaches mindful meditation
helps a person change their relationship with these potential triggers
support a person to be able to experience negative thoughts without letting them influence their feelings and behaviours
Who does Mindfulness help?
Anyone could benefit from learning mindfulness skills. Mindfulness therapy can help people with mental health problems like depression, addiction, anxiety, and other mental conditions. It can also help you if you have physical problems that are causing or caused by your mental health issues.
Mindfulness practices have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of a variety of mental health problems, including:
Anxiety: Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms, including generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder.
Depression: Studies have shown that mindfulness-based therapy can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression, including major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder.
Stress: Mindfulness practices have been shown to be effective in reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Research has suggested that mindfulness practices may be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms, such as impulsivity and inattention.
Substance abuse: Mindfulness practices have been shown to be effective in reducing substance abuse and improving treatment outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders.
How does MBCT work?
Mindfulness can be practiced through various techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or simply by paying attention to one's breath and surroundings in a non-judgmental way. It has been shown to have a number of benefits, including reducing stress, improving focus and concentration, and promoting overall well-being.
A mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) session may include a variety of activities, depending on the needs and goals of the individual client. Some common elements of MBCT may include:
Guided mindfulness meditation: The therapist may lead the client through a mindfulness meditation practice, such as focusing on the breath or a mantra, to help the client bring their attention to the present moment.
Cognitive restructuring: The therapist may work with the client to identify and modify negative thought patterns that contribute to their distress. This may involve helping the client to challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts and beliefs.
Mindful self-inquiry: The therapist may ask the client to reflect on their thoughts and emotions in a non-judgmental way, helping them to develop a greater awareness of their internal experience.
Body awareness: The therapist may encourage the client to pay attention to their body and physical sensations, helping them to connect with their senses and the present moment.
Homework assignments: The therapist may give the client mindfulness practices or other exercises to do at home between sessions to help reinforce the skills learned in therapy.
Evidence based practice.
There is a growing body of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in reducing symptoms of depression and reducing the risk of relapse.
A systematic review of 25 randomized controlled trials found that MBCT was as effective as maintenance antidepressant medication in preventing relapse in individuals with recurrent depression. Another review of 13 randomized controlled trials found that MBCT was effective in reducing symptoms of depression in individuals with major depressive disorder.
Research has also suggested that MBCT may be effective in improving other mental health outcomes, such as reducing anxiety and stress and improving overall well-being.
We make finding the right therapist easy.
At My Therapist Online, we listen to the problems you are facing and match you with the right therapist for your individual needs. You can meet with them for a free initial consultation to be sure it is a good match before starting your therapy.