Mindfulness-Based Therapies (MBCT / MBSR)
Mindfulness-based approaches strengthen attention and present-moment awareness, helping you relate to thoughts and emotions with more steadiness and choice.
There’s no single “right” therapy—many people benefit from a blend, or a sequence, over time. What matters most is a pace that feels steady and supportive.
Who typically provides this?
Typically provided by licensed mental health professionals; training and scope can vary by provider and setting.
What sessions can look like
- Guided mindfulness practices + supportive discussion of what you notice
- Skills for observing thoughts without getting pulled into them
- Often includes home practice—short, consistent repetition over time
Often helpful for
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Relapse prevention for depression (MBCT)
- Chronic pain/stress conditions (MBSR)
Good fit if…
- You want calming and grounding tools for your nervous system
- You’re open to gentle practice over time
- You want a steady approach that builds resilience
If this feels hard right now, that’s okay
Sometimes the best next step is choosing the right pace and support level first—then building from there.
- You’re hoping for fast change without practice (mindfulness benefits from repetition)
- You’re feeling very dissociated or unsafe in your body right now—modified mindfulness and grounding may be a better starting point
If you want help choosing a steady starting point, the quiz can narrow the field fast.
Questions you can bring to a first session
You don’t have to ask all of these—pick the ones that would help you feel confident and supported.
- What does a typical session look like with you?
- How will we set goals—and how will we know if things are improving?
- If something feels too fast or too intense, how do you adjust pace and support?
- How do you tailor this approach to my needs, identity, and preferences?
Safety notes+
- Some trauma histories benefit from modified mindfulness (eyes open, shorter practices, more grounding and choice).
Educational only. Not medical advice. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.