Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
MBCT
(Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) is based on the MBSR program
developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn. The MBCT program is designed specifically
for people who suffer from depressed mood and was created to help
prevent relapse into depression. In this program, you'll learn how to
use different skills: cognitive therapy can teach you how to be aware
of distortions in thinking, and mindfulness can teach you how to ground
into the present moment and see your thought and feelings as simply
mental events in the mind that come and go. Rather than trying to
change or eliminate difficult mental experiences, MBCT teaches you how
to develop a whole different understanding of and relationship to your
thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations.
When
you know how to change your relationship to negative thoughts or
unpleasant experiences, they become much easier to handle, reducing the
negative cycle that too often leads to relapse. You may find you are
less stressed, less reactive, and are even enjoying life more!
The
MBCT course consists of eight weekly 2.5 hour classes, and an
eight-hour meditation retreat on June 6th. Sessions consist generally
of guided mindfulness meditation, in-class exercises, gentle yoga, and
discussion. There are also practices and homework assignments that
participants complete during the days between sessions. The structure
of MBCT requires strong commitment to doing the homework, but the
rewards can be lasting.
The
latest research proves that MBCT can be as effective as precription
drugs in preventing relapse, and more effective in enhancing your
quality of life. The study also showed MBCT to help people with a
history of depression stay well in the longer term.
If
you are interested please contact us to find out when the next available group is beginning. Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D. also offers one on one work with this.