Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a relatively new form of psychotherapy combining aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with strategies like mindfulness and mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a useful treatment method for individuals with chronic depression, helping clients see themselves as separate from their thoughts and feelings. The overall goal of mindfulness therapy is to help individuals better manage their thoughts and emotions with the goal of preventing the relapse of depression. Two clinical trials utilizing MBCT showed that it reduced rates of relapse among people with chronic depression by 50%.
MBCT is also an effective therapy for individuals struggling with anxiety disorders and mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. According to MBCT.com, through a five-step process, the therapy works for a client as they:
- Discover their own thought and mood patterns.
- Learn how to appreciate the small pleasures in their daily lives.
- Learn how to better regulate bad moods and painful memories.
- Learn how to transition to a more positive state of mind.
- Access different approaches for dealing with difficult emotions and moods.
There are several mindfulness techniques that Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy will implement during treatment sessions. These can include mindfulness practices that help us stay in the present moment such as stretching, body scans, yoga poses, and pandiculation. The primary treatment approach for MBCT is an eight-week group therapy program that meets two hours a week followed by six days of homework assignments outside of the group. The homework assignments typically take 45 minutes to an hour to complete. These exercises often include 3-minute breathing space, mindfulness exercises instructed through audio and meditation practices.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most widely used treatment method in behavioral healthcare, with a primary goal to improve our thought processes to produce better behaviors and more desirable outcomes. Pasadena Villa offers CBT, as well as a wide variety of other evidence-based therapies for individuals that struggle with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. To schedule an assessment or learn more about enrolling at Pasadena Villa, please call our admissions office at 407-215-2519 or fill out our contact form.
