Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a research-based treatment program for recurrent depression, anxiety, and pain management. The core of this program is derived directly from Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program and, like the original program, MBCT teaches stress management skills and new ways of relating to old experiences.  “Mindfulness” refers simply to paying attention, on purpose, in the moment and without judgment. Mindfulness is an effective way to move from automatic patterns into making choices from a grounded, calm and fully present stance – even when we’re under stress, in pain or suffering from illness.

Published research on MBSR and MBCT indicate that the majority of people who complete these programs experience:

• A greater ability to cope with both short and long-term stress
• An increased ability to relax and be flexible
• Greater energy and enthusiasm for life
• Lasting improvement in both physical and psychological symptoms, including fewer and less intense episodes of relapse
• Improved self esteem

At True North, you can take an 8 week MBCT course (beginning in the spring of 2007) or work individually with Mary Fogg, PhD.  The focus of this program is useful for stress management in general as well as relapse prevention. Some people are self-referred to this program and others are referred by their physicians. This service may be reimbursable by your insurance company.