Minfulness-based Cognitive-Therapy

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based psychological treatment that combines elements of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with mindfulness practices derived from Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). It was originally developed to prevent relapse in people who have recovered from recurrent depression, but its use has expanded to a range of mental health concerns. It typically involves 8 weekly sessions, often in group settings, with guided meditations, mindful movement, and homework practices.

 

Core Principles of MBCT

MBCT teaches individuals to:

• Recognize negative thought patterns without reacting to them automatically

• Develop a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment

• Reduce rumination and avoidance, which often contribute to mood and anxiety disorders

• Respond to difficult thoughts and emotions with curiosity and acceptance rather than resistance

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Who MBCT Is Suitable For

MBCT is particularly helpful for individuals who:

• Have a history of recurrent depression (especially those who have had 3 or more episodes)

• Experience residual symptoms after recovering from depression

• Struggle with anxiety, stress, or chronic pain

• Have tendencies toward rumination, worry, or emotional avoidance

• Are open to meditation and experiential practices

 

Evidence supports MBCT for:

• Major depressive disorder (especially for relapse prevention)

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

• Health anxiety

• Chronic stress and burnout

• Bipolar disorder (as part of a comprehensive treatment plan)

 

Who MBCT may not be suitable for:

MBCT may be less appropriate, or require adaptation, for individuals who:

• Are currently experiencing acute, severe depression or psychosis

• Have difficulty with concentration or cognitive impairments that limit their ability to engage in meditation

• Are in early stages of trauma recovery (mindfulness may initially intensify distress without sufficient support)

• Have little interest in mindfulness or find sustained attention practices frustrating or distressing

In these cases, a modified or alternative approach (e.g., trauma-focused CBT or DBT) might be more suitable.

References:

• Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., & Teasdale, J. D. (2013). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

• Kuyken, W., Warren, F., Taylor, R. S., Whalley, B., Crane, C., Bondolfi, G., ... & Dalgleish, T. (2016). Efficacy of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in prevention of depressive relapse: An individual patient data meta-analysis from randomized trials. JAMA Psychiatry, 73(6), 565–574. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2016.0076

• Teasdale, J. D., Segal, Z. V., & Williams, J. M. G. (1995). How does cognitive therapy prevent depressive relapse and why should attentional control (mindfulness) training help? Behaviour Research and Therapy, 33(1), 25–39.