Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Preparation

Procedure

1. Eight weekly 2-hour group sessions led by trained facilitators.
2. Practices include body scan, mindful breathing, and mindful movement.
3. Cognitive exercises target rumination, negative automatic thoughts, and self-criticism.
4. Daily at-home mindfulness practice (30–45 minutes).

ideal candidates

• Individuals with recurrent depression
• Patients at high risk for relapse
• Adults seeking mindfulness-based stress reduction

screening required

• Psychiatric evaluation
• Assessment of motivation and ability to engage in mindfulness practice

practitioner

• Psychologists
• Licensed therapists trained in MBCT
• Mindfulness instructors with CBT training

facility

• Hospitals
• Outpatient clinics
• Community mental health centers
• Private practice

Key Studies

• Segal, Z.V., Williams, J.M.G., & Teasdale, J.D. (2002). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression.
• Meta-analyses show MBCT significantly reduces relapse rates in recurrent depression.

Concurrent Therapies

• Pharmacotherapy for depression
• Individual CBT
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)