Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for Depression and Anxiety is an empirically-based program developed to help people who suffer from repeated bouts of depression and chronic unhappiness. Building on the demonstrated efficacy of MBSR, MBCT includes the ideas of cognitive therapy with meditative practices and attitudes of mindfulness. It has subsequently been applied to people struggling with anxiety and bipolar disorder. 

MBCT is a curriculum-based experiential learning program that builds participants’ capacity to relate to the thoughts and feelings that fuel depression and anxiety more skillfully. Classes meet for eight (8) weeks, two and a half (2.5) hours weekly, and one all-day class.

Each week provides a structured introduction formal and informal practices that invite a more curious and spacious response to experience in the present moment. 

Topics covered include:

Awareness and Automatic Pilot
Living in Our Heads
Gathering the Scattered Mind
Recognizing Aversion
Allowing/Letting Be
Thoughts are not Facts
“How Can I Best Take Care of Myself?”
Maintaining and Extending New Learning

MBCT was developed by Zindel Segal, Mark Williams and John Teasdale

MBCT

MBCT was developed by Mark Williams, John Teasdale, and Zindel Segal in 2001, with a 2nd edition published in 2012. This was a clinical program initially, offered in a group context. Subsequently, they created a workbook that guides users through the 8-week program for those who aren't able to attend a group.

The class that I offer includes weekly handouts with the main learning goals, tips, and guidance. Many people find the support of a group very helpful as they begin the process of learning how to shift from familiar but unhelpful modes of thinking and doing to new ways of thinking and being.