Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for Depression
A 6 week course teaching skills in the prevention of relapse
Sundays, August 22nd to September 26th, 2010
9a-11:30a
What is MBCT?
MBCT is a combination of mindfulness meditation practice and “thought-noticing” techniques derived from cognitive therapy. Both emphasize a stance of curiosity and acceptance, a way of watching ones own experience that helps short circuit the tendency to ruminate on depression, a tendency that gives depression its heavy, “stuck” quality.
Who will benefit from MBCT?
MBCT is designed to help those who:
- Are not currently experiencing a major depressive episode.
- Have had a history of several episodes of major depression.
- Struggle with the negative thought patterns that contribute to the depressive relapse.
Research has shown that those who have experienced one major depression have a 50% chance of suffering another, with the rate increasing to 70-80% for those who have had 2 or more episodes.
MBCT was created to address this high chance of relapse that exists for those suffering from chronic major depression. Studies have shown that after the 8 week course, participants in an MBCT class suffered relapse at about half the expected rate. Click here for links concerning MBCT and its usefulness.
This class will help you:
- Learn, through direct experience, about the workings of your mind and your particular vulnerabilities to depression.
- To notice when you are getting caught in old thoughts, and practice ways of releasing yourself from these habits.
- To practice a different way of relating to yourself and the world.
- Learn to let go of the struggle or combat with oneself that contributes to and sustains depression.
- To practice acceptance of one’s self and the world, rather than judgment/despair and self-criticism.
- Learn to notice and savor the small moments of pleasure which typically are clouded by depression.
Registering:
To obtain a registration packet, please email:
mbct@mbctsf.com, or call (415) 835-2162.
Fees:
The course fee is $275, plus $35 materials fee (cd's and book).
Below you will find a link to a site with numerous studies (both academic and for the lay person) of MBCT and meditation in psychotherapy:
General research/articles on mindfulness and psychotherapy