Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) provides a practical framework for experiencing our thoughts in a more constructive, workable, and realistic way. To do so, MBCT coaches us to embrace that all situations in life are neutral and the meaning given to that experience will impact our responding feelings, actions, and physical sensations. Where in traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) the focus would be to change the interpretation of the event, MBCT invites us to observe our thoughts as they arise and acknowledge that these thoughts are not necessarily facts. 

 

Unless rigidly grasped or fueled, thoughts come and go organically like waves in the ocean. It is through acknowledging vs avoiding our thoughts and decentering our identity from them (i.e. “I am not my thoughts. I am that which observes my thoughts.”) that we are able to extend non-judgmental interest to each thought and assess its usefulness in our lives.

 

As its name suggests, MBCT layers in mindfulness approaches with the best of CBT to help take a wider and more compassionate view of the way we think. More curious than cerebral, MBCT acknowledges the complexity of our thoughts and provides the necessary skills to ensure that our thoughts help us to achieve our goals, embrace solutions to problems, and improve our worldview.

 

Research has supported MBCT’s effectiveness for a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns, including:

 

• Perfectionism

• Insomnia

• Disproportionate Anger and Mood Instability

• Anxiety and Panic Disorders 

• Depression

• Patterns of Overcontrol

 

Reach out to schedule a complimentary consultation to learn more and discuss if Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy

at Three Waves Psychotherapy is right for you!