Learn how to integrate mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) into your clinical practice with these tips. MBCT is a psychotherapy that combines mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques.

The most effective MBCT is delivered by a therapist deeply dedicated to their own mindfulness practice. The modeling and transmission of moment to moment presence offered by an MBCT therapist is the best method for helping a client internalize the same qualities. When an MBCT therapist skillfully holds in compassionate awareness with the client their suffering, long-held patterns of trauma begin to release because the client will experience feeling safe, perhaps for the first time. Unlike traditional talk therapy, MBCT creates a nonverbal healing space. This is essential especially for clients with complex-PTSD where preverbal trauma occurred in early relationships. As a result, MBCT helps foster a secure attachment style.

How can you integrate mindfulness-based cognitive therapy into your clinical practice?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a form of psychotherapy that combines mindfulness practices with cognitive behavioral techniques. It is designed to help people who suffer from recurrent depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges, by teaching them how to cultivate awareness, compassion, and resilience. MBCT can be integrated into your clinical practice in several ways, depending on your goals, preferences, and resources. Here are some tips to get you started.

1 Assess your clients' needs

Before introducing MBCT to your clients, you need to evaluate their suitability, readiness, and motivation for this approach. MBCT is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and it may not be appropriate for everyone. Some factors to consider are: the severity and frequency of their symptoms, their history of trauma or abuse, their current medication or substance use, their level of cognitive functioning, and their willingness to engage in homework assignments. You can use standardized tools, such as the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale or the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, to measure their baseline mindfulness skills and monitor their progress.

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Hans Quistorff, LMT

Antalgic Posture Pain Specialist
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Mindfulness is also necessary in body work. Touch is also a form of communication. Touch alone without constant feedback about what the body is telling the fingers and what the fingers are telling the clients mind. is not mindfulness. Yesterday I had a conversation with a potential client while waiting for car repair. Of the many physical therapists she has been referred to only one stands out as really helping her. She helped her feal what and when it was happening in her elbow and she was able to make the pain go away. Likewise I helped her feel what was happening and when in her knee, her current problem, and because my 3D for medical program is on the same tablet as my auto program I was able to show her the active parts involved.

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2 Choose a format and a curriculum

MBCT can be delivered in different formats, such as individual sessions, group sessions, or online programs. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your clients' needs, preferences, and availability. For example, individual sessions can offer more personalized attention and feedback, while group sessions can provide more peer support and social learning. Online programs can offer more flexibility and accessibility, but may require more self-discipline and technical skills. You can also choose from various curricula that have been developed and tested for different populations and conditions, such as the original MBCT for depression, the MBCT for anxiety, or the MBCT for cancer.

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3 Learn from experts and peers

To integrate MBCT into your clinical practice, you need to have a solid understanding of the theoretical and empirical foundations of this approach, as well as the practical skills and competencies to facilitate it effectively. You can learn from experts and peers by taking formal training courses, attending workshops or conferences, reading books or journals, or joining supervision or consultation groups. You can also enhance your own mindfulness practice, by participating in retreats, meditating regularly, or using apps or podcasts. By learning from others and yourself, you can deepen your knowledge, confidence, and credibility as an MBCT therapist.

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Maria Bries

Partner at Fox Swibel Levin & Carroll LLP Energy Law and Real Estate Groups
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The most effective MBCT is delivered by a therapist deeply dedicated to their own mindfulness practice. The modeling and transmission of moment to moment presence offered by an MBCT therapist is the best method for helping a client internalize the same qualities. When an MBCT therapist skillfully holds in compassionate awareness with the client their suffering, long-held patterns of trauma begin to release because the client will experience feeling safe, perhaps for the first time. Unlike traditional talk therapy, MBCT creates a nonverbal healing space. This is essential especially for clients with complex-PTSD where preverbal trauma occurred in early relationships. As a result, MBCT helps foster a secure attachment style.

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4 Adapt and customize

MBCT is not a rigid or fixed protocol, but a flexible and adaptable framework that can be tailored to your clients' needs, goals, and contexts. You can adapt and customize MBCT by modifying the length, frequency, or intensity of the sessions, by adding or removing specific exercises or topics, by using different language or metaphors, or by incorporating other therapeutic elements or resources. You can also co-create MBCT with your clients, by inviting their feedback, preferences, and suggestions, and by empowering them to take charge of their own learning and healing. By adapting and customizing MBCT, you can make it more relevant, engaging, and effective for your clients.

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Oana Rebeca Neagu
(edited)
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One thing that I found important is to help people to make a choice how to use mindfulness practice. For example they may not use focus on breath in mindfulness exercise or they use other mindfulness technique. Flexibile is important.

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5 Evaluate and improve

MBCT is not a static or final product, but a dynamic and evolving process that can be improved over time. You can evaluate and improve MBCT by collecting and analyzing data, such as outcome measures, satisfaction ratings, or qualitative feedback, from your clients, yourself, or other stakeholders. You can also use reflective tools, such as journals, logs, or checklists, to monitor your own performance, strengths, and areas for improvement. By evaluating and improving MBCT, you can identify what works and what doesn't, and make informed decisions and changes to enhance your practice and your clients' outcomes.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you integrate mindfulness-based cognitive therapy into your clinical practice?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your clients' needs

2 Choose a format and a curriculum

3 Learn from experts and peers

4 Adapt and customize

5 Evaluate and improve

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mindfulness

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How can you integrate mindfulness-based cognitive therapy into your clinical practice?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Assess your clients' needs

2 Choose a format and a curriculum

3 Learn from experts and peers

4 Adapt and customize

5 Evaluate and improve

6 Here’s what else to consider

Mindfulness

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