Mindful-Based Cognitive Therapy, or MBCT, is a relatively new form of therapy that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. But what is it, and is it right for you? In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of Mindful-Based Cognitive Therapy, as well as how to determine if it is the right choice for you.
MBCT is a type of therapy that focuses on mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. This can be done through meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness practices.
Mindful-Based Cognitive Therapy was developed by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams, and John Teasdale. Segal is a professor of psychiatry at the University of Toronto, and Williams is a professor of clinical psychology at the University of Oxford. Their work was based on an eight-week program, originally called Mindful-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, who is an internationally known scientist and meditation instructor.
MBCT is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors, and has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression. In one study, MBCT was found to be as effective as antidepressant medication in preventing relapse in people with major depressive disorder, as well as people with chronic unhappiness. It has also been found to be very helpful for cancer patients. Additionally, MBCT has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Some people have been able to reduce or discontinue antidepression and/or anti-anxiety medications after successful MBCT treatments.
If you are considering MBCT, it is important to find a qualified practitioner. MBCT is not right for everyone, and it is important to find a therapist who has experience with this type of therapy. Individuals suffering from any sort of psychotic disorder (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, etc.) may be triggered by this form of therapy, so only a well-trained practitioner can determine if this therapy is appropriate.
Another group that MBCT is not appropriate for is individuals suffering from a drug or alcohol dependency because they may have difficulty truly engaging in the therapy. Another group that shouldn’t seek MBCT is the recently bereaved, as the treatment may prove too overwhelming. These individuals may want to start with other types of therapy, such as traditional cognitive therapy and/or substance abuse counseling, or bereavement counseling.
If you think MBCT may be right for you, talk to your therapist about it. Once you find a qualified practitioner, they will work with you to determine if this type of therapy is appropriate for your needs.
To learn more about Mindful-Based Cognitive Therapy, or to find a practitioner in your area, please go to: https://www.accessmbct.com/find-a-mbct-therapist/
We hope this information has been beneficial. You are on a wonderful path to deepening how mindfulness can enrich and improve your life. You will not regret it! Namaste’.
