The Difference Between Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
When managing mental health conditions, finding the appropriate therapy can be a crucial element of recovery. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety or another disorder, a therapist can work with you to craft an individualized treatment plan tailored for your specific needs.
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is a type of psychotherapy that integrates mindfulness practices with cognitive behavioral techniques to help you improve your mood. This form of therapy was originally designed to prevent recurrent depression, but may also be beneficial for individuals suffering from other mental health issues.
Doctors frequently prescribe MBCT to those on maintenance doses of antidepressants, as it can reduce their chances of relapse and help safeguard mental wellbeing. In some cases, you may even be able to reduce medication dosage or discontinue usage altogether if you feel well enough.
A Mind Body Therapy (MBCT) therapist will collaborate with you to identify and modify problematic thoughts and behaviors that have been troubling you, providing the tools necessary for managing and overcoming any problems no matter how severe they may be.
In addition to helping you identify and modify problematic thinking, an MBCT therapist will instruct you how to practice mindfulness in everyday life. Doing this increases awareness of thoughts, feelings and physical sensations so that you can better comprehend and cope with them.
You will learn techniques for maintaining awareness in the present moment, such as breathing exercises and body scan meditations. These practices can help you focus your focus on what matters most without judgment or negative reactions.
Some therapists suggest trying mindfulness exercises into your everyday life, such as altering the way you commute or visiting a new cafe for coffee. You can do these things anywhere at any time!
This approach is founded on the notion that our thoughts and emotions can negatively influence our decisions. Retraining your automatic cognitive process so you no longer experience negative emotional reactions to potentially distressing situations is key here.
Psychotherapy can also assist you in changing how you perceive yourself and others, so that you feel less overwhelmed by circumstances. This type of therapy is especially useful for those dealing with chronic stress.
MBCT is an ideal treatment option for anyone seeking assistance with addiction, as it teaches how to manage depression, anxiety, cravings and post-acute withdrawal symptoms so that sobriety remains a goal.
A Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) therapist may suggest techniques such as mindful stretching, yoga poses and gentle movement to increase self-awareness and nonjudgment in daily activities. You can find guided meditations online or through apps that facilitate these types of activities.
MBCT can be an excellent option for those suffering from depression or other mental health issues, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Before embarking on any therapy, make sure you discuss it with your doctor to make sure it’s the right therapy for you.