Mindfulness-Based Therapy
What is mindfulness?
“Paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally, to the unfolding of experience moment-to-moment.”
– John Kabat-Zinn
What is mindfulness based psychotherapy?
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Mindfulness has been used in many therapy programs including Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery (MBCR)
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In therapy, mindfulness meditation can be used to decrease attachment to thoughts allowing for greater flexibility and change.
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Mindfulness allows individuals to notice when automatic thoughts are occurring and provides a greater ability to observe and make new choices, rather than react automatically.
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By developing nonjudgmental attention through mindfulness practice, individuals become more adept at tolerating distress and making wise decisions in difficult situations.
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Mindfulness can help individuals gain greater clarity about their most important values so that they can make meaningful life choices.
How can mindfulness based psychotherapy help?
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Reduce stress
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Reduce repetitive negative thoughts, anxiety, and depressive symptoms
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Reduce emotional reactivity
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Boost working memory and increase mental focus
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Increase cognitive flexibility
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Improve communication and relationship satisfaction
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Reduce pain symptoms