What is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy?

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy uses mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people heal. Mindfulness techniques can include breathing exercises, meditation, guided imagery, or yoga. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has to do with the way people think. It states that people have negative thoughts that affect feelings and behaviors.

MBCT aims to disrupt thought patterns that can trigger episodes of depressed mood or other distressing emotional states through mindfulness exercises.

MBCT can treat depression and other mental health concerns. It typically is done in a group setting for eight weeks. But it also works for individual counseling.

Mindfulness exercises such as breathing techniques, meditation, body scans, and guided visualizations help people gain a sense of being present within the moment. Mindfulness increases awareness of the body and mind so people can develop a greater understanding of themselves.

MBCT also helps people understand how their feelings and actions relate to their thoughts. This approach can benefit people experiencing depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, and other mental health concerns.