Mindfulness Therapy

Mindfulness based therapy combines techniques and mindfulness strategies to help clients better understand and manage their thoughts and emotions. The goal is to achieve relief from feelings of distress. Mindfulness based therapy is generally broken into two different types: Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Mindfulness came to the forefront in the early 2000s to address depression specifically, but also reduce general stress and improve emotional control, regardless of the specific issues being addressed.

Mindfulness Therapy in California | New York | Online in 40 States

WHAT IS MINDFULNESS THERAPY USED FOR?

Mindfulness therapy was developed to prevent relapses for individuals with bouts of depression, but has since been expanded as a treatment for other conditions. Mindfulness may also be helpful for treating generalized anxiety and addictions. MBCT has also been shown to improve symptoms of depression in some people with physical health conditions, such as vascular disease and traumatic brain injury. Recent research studies have also shown that individuals with cancer, diabetes, chronic pain and epilepsy who incorporate MBCT into treatment plans may see improvement in well-being.

HOW DOES MINDFULNESS THERAPY WORK?

Sometimes normal sadness is a powerful trigger for someone who has recovered from a depressive state to relapse into another bout of depression. Rather than try to avoid or eliminate sadness or other negative emotions, mindfulness therapy learns to change their relationship with these emotions by practicing meditation and other mindfulness exercises. These activities rebalance neural networks, allowing the client to move away from automatic negative responses toward an understanding that there are other ways to respond to situations. By developing a routine meditation practice, clients can use the technique whenever they start to feel overwhelmed by negative emotions. When sadness occurs and starts to bring up the usual negative associations that trigger relapse of depression, the client is equipped with tools that will help them replace negative thought patterns with positive.

Can You Do Mindfulness Therapy Online?

Yes, you can absolutely engage in mindfulness therapy online. At Thrive Psychology, we offer online mindfulness therapy to provide you with the benefits of this evidence-based approach from the comfort of your own space. Mindfulness therapy can be effectively conducted through secure and confidential video conferencing platforms, allowing you to learn and practice mindfulness techniques, manage stress, anxiety, and enhance your overall well-being without the need for in-person sessions.

Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you develop mindfulness skills that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a sense of inner calm. Whether you prefer in-person or online sessions, we're here to support your journey towards a more mindful and fulfilling life.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MINDFULNESS THERAPY?

Mindfulness based therapy helps patients recognize habitual, unhelpful reactions to difficulty and helps patients develop an , accepting and non-judgmental attitude to all experience, including difficult sensations, emotions, thoughts and behavior.    

MBCT VS MBSR

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) are two distinct yet related approaches that harness the power of mindfulness to promote well-being. While both methodologies share a common foundation in mindfulness practices, they differ in their primary aims and applications.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

woman sitting on the couch

MBCT is specifically designed as an intervention for individuals dealing with recurrent depression. It integrates principles of cognitive therapy with mindfulness techniques to break the cycle of depressive relapse. Developed by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams, and John Teasdale, MBCT empowers individuals to recognize and respond to negative thought patterns associated with depression.

Key Features of MBCT:

  • Cognitive Focus: MBCT incorporates cognitive elements, aiming to change the way individuals relate to their thoughts and emotions.

  • Depression Prevention: The primary goal of MBCT is to prevent the recurrence of depressive episodes by enhancing self-awareness and interrupting automatic negative thought patterns.

  • Structured Program: MBCT is often delivered in a structured format over eight weeks, involving guided mindfulness practices, cognitive exercises, and group discussions.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

women sitting on the floor

MBSR, developed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn, is a more generalized program aimed at reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being. It was originally created for individuals with chronic medical conditions but has since been embraced by a broader audience seeking stress reduction and improved mental health.

Key Features of MBSR:

  • Stress Reduction: MBSR is designed to alleviate stress by fostering non-judgmental awareness of the present moment through mindfulness practices.

  • Holistic Approach: Unlike MBCT's specific focus on depression, MBSR takes a more holistic approach, addressing various stressors, both physical and psychological.

  • Diverse Applications: MBSR has been applied in various contexts, including healthcare settings, corporate wellness programs, and community settings, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

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 MINDFULNESS THERAPY FAQs

  • Mindfulness therapy is versatile and can be beneficial for a wide range of mental health concerns. It can help individuals cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and even chronic pain. Additionally, it can improve emotional regulation, enhance self-awareness, and boost overall mental and emotional well-being. Our therapists at Thrive Psychology Group are skilled in tailoring mindfulness therapy to address your specific needs and concerns.

  • Yes, we offer both in-person and online mindfulness therapy sessions at Thrive Psychology Group. Whether you prefer to have sessions face-to-face or from the convenience of your own space, our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you harness the power of mindfulness for improved mental health and personal growth. You can choose the format that best suits your needs and lifestyle, and our therapists will provide you with the guidance and support you require to thrive.

  • Integrating mindfulness into your daily life is a valuable aspect of mindfulness therapy. Your therapist will guide you in developing practical mindfulness techniques that you can use on your own. These may include daily mindfulness meditation practices, deep breathing exercises, and techniques for staying present in the moment. The goal is to make mindfulness a part of your daily routine to promote emotional well-being and stress management. Your therapist will provide you with the tools and strategies to continue your mindfulness journey beyond therapy sessions.

  • While both share elements of cognitive-behavioral approaches, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) specifically integrates mindfulness principles to prevent relapse in individuals with recurrent depression. It's a specialized adaptation within the broader spectrum of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

  • The effectiveness of CBT and MBCT depends on individual needs and the specific goals of therapy. CBT is versatile, addressing various mental health concerns, while MBCT is tailored for preventing depression relapse. The choice between them is based on personal preferences and the nature of the challenges being addressed.

  • The success rate of MBCT varies, but research indicates its effectiveness in preventing depressive relapse. Success is often measured by improved mood, enhanced emotional regulation, and a reduced likelihood of recurrent depressive episodes.

  • The cost of MBCT can vary depending on factors such as the therapist's credentials, location, and session format (in-person or online). It's advisable to discuss fees and potential payment options directly with our Patient Care Coordinator to ensure clarity regarding the financial aspects of MBCT.