Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

(Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

Bringing Awareness and Calm to Your Healing Journey

Our minds can sometimes feel like they’re on autopilot—caught in cycles of worry, rumination, or self-criticism. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) blends proven cognitive therapy tools with the practice of mindfulness to help you step out of these cycles, reconnect with the present moment, and build a gentler relationship with your thoughts and feelings.

What Makes MBCT Different?

While traditional counselling may focus on analyzing or changing thoughts directly, MBCT teaches you to notice your thoughts differently—with curiosity, acceptance, and awareness.

Key features of MBCT:

  • Mindfulness at the core – Practices like meditation, breathwork, and body awareness help anchor you in the present.

  • Breaking cycles – Learn to recognize early signs of negative thought spirals and step out of them.

  • Compassionate awareness – Develop a kinder, more supportive way of relating to yourself.

  • Practical skills – MBCT gives you tools you can use daily to manage stress, anxiety, or mood changes.

  • Holistic focus – Addresses both the mind and body, helping you feel more grounded and balanced.

Who Can Benefit from MBCT?

MBCT is especially helpful for those who:

  • Struggle with recurrent depression or anxiety

  • Feel stuck in cycles of worry or self-criticism

  • Experience stress that feels hard to manage

  • Have difficulty staying present or feel “on edge” much of the time

  • Want to build resilience and prevent relapse after past depression

  • Are seeking a more mindful, compassionate approach to healing

How It Works in Counselling

A typical MBCT session may include:

  1. Grounding practices – Short mindfulness exercises to help you arrive and feel settled.

  2. Exploring patterns of thought – Learning how certain thought habits can fuel distress.

  3. Mindful awareness – Practicing observing thoughts and emotions without judgment.

  4. Cognitive strategies – Identifying unhelpful patterns and shifting your perspective.

  5. Daily practice – Integrating mindfulness into everyday life to build long-term resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have meditation experience?
No. MBCT is designed for beginners and experienced meditators alike. Your therapist will guide you through practices step by step.

Is MBCT evidence-based?
Yes. MBCT has been extensively researched and is especially effective in preventing relapse in depression and reducing anxiety.

Is MBCT only about mindfulness?
Not at all. It combines mindfulness with cognitive therapy techniques, creating a practical, structured, and effective approach.

Can MBCT help with trauma?
Yes, when approached gently. MBCT can help with grounding, reducing reactivity, and building resilience, though sometimes it is combined with trauma-focused therapies for deeper healing.

Ready To Take The Next Step?

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy can help you step out of unhelpful patterns, reconnect with the present moment, and cultivate greater calm and clarity.

If you’d like to explore MBCT and see if it’s the right approach for you, we’re here to help:

Phone: (778)715-0112

Email: info@willowbarkwellness.com

Or book a complimentary 15 minute consultation with any of our counsellors to see if they’re the right fit for you.

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