Photo of Ankur Upadhyay, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Ankur Upadhyay
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10007  (Online Only)
Dr. Ankur Upadhyay is a licensed Psychiatrist. He provides psychiatric care supported by evidence based medical practices, highlighted by his experience with mindfulness based therapies and psychoanalysis. His journey started in India where he gained knowledge in spirituality and the practice of mindful living. He has since completed his Psychiatry residency training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (Morningside-West Hospitals), and treated patients from diverse backgrounds. He has also completed training in the Intensive Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy program at William Alanson White Institute in NYC.
Dr. Ankur Upadhyay is a licensed Psychiatrist. He provides psychiatric care supported by evidence based medical practices, highlighted by his experience with mindfulness based therapies and psychoanalysis. His journey started in India where he gained knowledge in spirituality and the practice of mindful living. He has since completed his Psychiatry residency training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (Morningside-West Hospitals), and treated patients from diverse backgrounds. He has also completed training in the Intensive Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy program at William Alanson White Institute in NYC.
(646) 956-4559 View (646) 956-4559
Photo of Adam Parker, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Adam Parker
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I am a Board certified, Yale-trained psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Yale School of Medicine with a passion for delivering the most advanced care in a compassionate, welcoming environment. I believe in exploring and understanding the whole person and utilizing all available tools, with a focus on integrative psychiatry. After a thorough initial consultation we will customize a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances. This can include talk therapy, lifestyle modifications, mindfulness, meditation, herbal, plant and prescription medication when indicated and desired.
I am a Board certified, Yale-trained psychiatrist and Assistant Professor at Yale School of Medicine with a passion for delivering the most advanced care in a compassionate, welcoming environment. I believe in exploring and understanding the whole person and utilizing all available tools, with a focus on integrative psychiatry. After a thorough initial consultation we will customize a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique circumstances. This can include talk therapy, lifestyle modifications, mindfulness, meditation, herbal, plant and prescription medication when indicated and desired.
(646) 630-7640 View (646) 630-7640
Photo of Jill Ahluwalia, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Jill Ahluwalia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, MPH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017  (Online Only)
I believe in education, encourage behavioral changes (ie diet, exercise, sleep), and teach mindfulness skills.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
I believe in education, encourage behavioral changes (ie diet, exercise, sleep), and teach mindfulness skills.
I am a board-certified, Columbia University trained, psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) specializing in medication management, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments to improve mental health. My holistic approach combines personalized medicine with my passion for listening deeply to your experience. By going beyond the symptoms that bring you into treatment, I will partner with you to help you achieve more joy and fulfillment in your life.
(929) 244-2945 View (929) 244-2945
Photo of Menekse Alpay, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Menekse Alpay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
(914) 342-7750 View (914) 342-7750
Photo of Mayumi Okuda Benavides, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Mayumi Okuda Benavides
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10168  (Online Only)
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
I want to congratulate you on taking the first steps towards self-improvement. You’ve tried everything: therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle changes, but are still struggling. I understand that making that first appointment can often be one of the biggest hurdles. As your psychiatrist, I will work closely with you every step of the way to determine the best treatment that is tailored specifically to your personal needs.
(347) 252-9942 View (347) 252-9942
Photo of Hisla Bates, MD, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Hisla Bates, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Pediatric and Adult Psychiatrist. Harvard, Mount Sinai, and Yale-trained, I have over twenty years of experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy working with complex cases in a variety of clinical settings. I have a holistic and integrative approach to my practice using art, positive psychiatry and mindfulness approaches. I use strength-based approaches to help you become more resilient and optimistic. I’m an artist (Parson’s grad) with a special interest in creativity and the arts as a healing modality. I work with professionals with burnout, depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.
I am a board-certified Pediatric and Adult Psychiatrist. Harvard, Mount Sinai, and Yale-trained, I have over twenty years of experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy working with complex cases in a variety of clinical settings. I have a holistic and integrative approach to my practice using art, positive psychiatry and mindfulness approaches. I use strength-based approaches to help you become more resilient and optimistic. I’m an artist (Parson’s grad) with a special interest in creativity and the arts as a healing modality. I work with professionals with burnout, depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.
(929) 357-1796 View (929) 357-1796
Photo of David H. Jiang, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
David H. Jiang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
I am knowledgable in the use of medications, mindfulness interventions, and have particular expertise in deep psychotherapy from intensive training in contemporary psychodynamic therapy.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in Manhattan and faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. My approach towards helping people is empathetic, relaxed, and trauma-informed. With a down to earth manner I like to genuinely get to know the people I work with. As an experienced supervisor of psychiatry and psychotherapy, I am confident in addressing a breadth of issues whether they are distressing symptoms, difficulties with relationships, problematic life patterns, healing from past hurts, and helping those who aren't even sure what's wrong in finding answers.
I am knowledgable in the use of medications, mindfulness interventions, and have particular expertise in deep psychotherapy from intensive training in contemporary psychodynamic therapy.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in Manhattan and faculty at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. My approach towards helping people is empathetic, relaxed, and trauma-informed. With a down to earth manner I like to genuinely get to know the people I work with. As an experienced supervisor of psychiatry and psychotherapy, I am confident in addressing a breadth of issues whether they are distressing symptoms, difficulties with relationships, problematic life patterns, healing from past hurts, and helping those who aren't even sure what's wrong in finding answers.
(646) 480-2819 View (646) 480-2819
Photo of Faizan Syed, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Faizan Syed
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
Syed uses mindfulness, existentialism, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, psychodynamics, genetics, and psychopharmacology.
Faizan Syed, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience working with patients of all age groups who have struggled with trauma, relationship/attachment issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, and personality disorders. He believes in the power and importance of psychotherapy as part of the therapeutic process and integrates individualized psychotherapy. He tailors techniques to each patient’s needs. He uses an integrative, holistic approach that combines different schools of psychology, philosophy, and neurology,
Syed uses mindfulness, existentialism, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical therapy, psychodynamics, genetics, and psychopharmacology.
Faizan Syed, MD is a board-certified psychiatrist. He has experience working with patients of all age groups who have struggled with trauma, relationship/attachment issues, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, psychosis, and personality disorders. He believes in the power and importance of psychotherapy as part of the therapeutic process and integrates individualized psychotherapy. He tailors techniques to each patient’s needs. He uses an integrative, holistic approach that combines different schools of psychology, philosophy, and neurology,
(929) 203-9081 View (929) 203-9081
Photo of Emily Steinberg, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Emily Steinberg
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I apply individualized approaches to treatment, which may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and medications (if warranted).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, attention, and eating disorders in adults. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment, offering psychopharmacology and an array of specialized psychotherapeutic techniques. My goal is primarily to work with individuals to develop treatment plans that are comfortable and effective over the long term. I often work closely with other clinicians as well, to provide a team-based approach to treatment. I currently serve as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Mount Sinai. I have done additional training at the New York Psychoanalytic Institute.
I apply individualized approaches to treatment, which may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and medications (if warranted).
I am a board-certified psychiatrist, specializing in the treatment of mood, anxiety, attention, and eating disorders in adults. I take a patient-centered approach to treatment, offering psychopharmacology and an array of specialized psychotherapeutic techniques. My goal is primarily to work with individuals to develop treatment plans that are comfortable and effective over the long term. I often work closely with other clinicians as well, to provide a team-based approach to treatment. I currently serve as an assistant professor of psychiatry at Mount Sinai. I have done additional training at the New York Psychoanalytic Institute.
(646) 430-9938 View (646) 430-9938
Photo of Dr. Emily Watts, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Dr. Emily Watts
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health, adult psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I provide a collaborative and integrative approach based off of individual needs such as a range of psychotherapies, stress management, lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, sleep training, mindfulness, and medication when necessary after careful consideration. I provide treatment for a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, life transitions, career management and relationship issues among many other things related to an individual’s physical, mental and social wellbeing.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in women's mental health, adult psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. I provide a collaborative and integrative approach based off of individual needs such as a range of psychotherapies, stress management, lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, sleep training, mindfulness, and medication when necessary after careful consideration. I provide treatment for a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief, life transitions, career management and relationship issues among many other things related to an individual’s physical, mental and social wellbeing.
(718) 568-6742 View (718) 568-6742
Photo of Jena Jamison, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Jena Jamison
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021
This may include insight-oriented or somatic psychotherapy, supplements, lifestyle modifications, mindfulness practices, medication, ketamine treatments, or other treatments in consultation with alternative providers.
Are you feeling stressed out, stuck, helpless, overwhelmed with fear or disappointment, unable to focus or get anything done? Do you want to keep functioning this way? I provide modern treatment strategies, with a 3 fold approach: remove what's hurting you, support what's helping you, and grow more helpful components. This a systems based approach, targeting brain regions, neurotransmitters, signalling pathways, and inflammation. I work with people who are well-trained in how to understand and interact with the world logically; but find stumbling blocks in their psychological and emotional well-being.
This may include insight-oriented or somatic psychotherapy, supplements, lifestyle modifications, mindfulness practices, medication, ketamine treatments, or other treatments in consultation with alternative providers.
Are you feeling stressed out, stuck, helpless, overwhelmed with fear or disappointment, unable to focus or get anything done? Do you want to keep functioning this way? I provide modern treatment strategies, with a 3 fold approach: remove what's hurting you, support what's helping you, and grow more helpful components. This a systems based approach, targeting brain regions, neurotransmitters, signalling pathways, and inflammation. I work with people who are well-trained in how to understand and interact with the world logically; but find stumbling blocks in their psychological and emotional well-being.
(720) 571-4584 View (720) 571-4584
Photo of Christine Tintorer, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Christine Tintorer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Special interests: support through major life changes, LGBT issues, & mindfulness.
Dr. Tintorer went to medical school at New Jersey Medical School, and went on to begin a residency in surgery before deciding that a career in psychiatry was where she wanted to be. She did her general psychiatry training at St. Vincent's Catholic Medical Center in Manhattan, then her Child and Adolescent Fellowship at St. Luke's Roosevelt Medical Center in Manhattan. She has rotated through a therapeutic school in NYC, worked in a substance abuse clinic in Brooklyn, and worked with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient children and adults in both NY and NJ. She has been in practice in Monmouth County since 2010.
Special interests: support through major life changes, LGBT issues, & mindfulness.
Dr. Tintorer went to medical school at New Jersey Medical School, and went on to begin a residency in surgery before deciding that a career in psychiatry was where she wanted to be. She did her general psychiatry training at St. Vincent's Catholic Medical Center in Manhattan, then her Child and Adolescent Fellowship at St. Luke's Roosevelt Medical Center in Manhattan. She has rotated through a therapeutic school in NYC, worked in a substance abuse clinic in Brooklyn, and worked with psychiatric inpatient and outpatient children and adults in both NY and NJ. She has been in practice in Monmouth County since 2010.
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Photo of Shervin Parvizi Ravan, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Shervin Parvizi Ravan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014  (Online Only)
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
I am a Columbia University trained psychiatrist and psychotherapist and the Medical Director of Greene Clinic. My treatment model combines evidence based psychotherapies, medications, nutrition and complementary/alternative interventions with the goal of providing comprehensive, well rounded, and individually focused care. Psychotherapy is central to my work and I utilize a variety of modalities including interpersonal psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). My approach is collaborative and non-authoritarian. OUT of network for all insurances.
(347) 514-9562 View (347) 514-9562
Photo of Menekse Alpay, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Menekse Alpay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10024
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
I am well-versed in different psychotherapies including psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy and interpersonal therapy.
I work with individuals who have anxiety, depression, mood disorders, insomnia, relationship problems, trauma history, medical illness, neurological illness, and/or individuals who are helping family members with these problems. My experience over the last 25 years in psychiatry has shown that medications are helpful but do not take care of all problems in life. I offer combined psychiatric treatment. I received my psychiatric residency training from Georgetown University Hospital and fellowship in Psychosomatic Medicine from Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School.
(617) 231-9618 View (617) 231-9618
Photo of Esther Kim, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Esther Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIHM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and also board certified in integrative holistic medicine. I have special interests in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and treating individuals experiencing difficult life circumstances including relationship, high performance academic/job, and infertility stresses. I believe that mental health involves physical, emotional, environmental, cultural, and spiritual systems that are all interconnected. Treating each individual is unique and requires a thoughtful and collaborative approach and I employ an integrative and holistic approach to treatment.
I am a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and also board certified in integrative holistic medicine. I have special interests in ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and treating individuals experiencing difficult life circumstances including relationship, high performance academic/job, and infertility stresses. I believe that mental health involves physical, emotional, environmental, cultural, and spiritual systems that are all interconnected. Treating each individual is unique and requires a thoughtful and collaborative approach and I employ an integrative and holistic approach to treatment.
(917) 242-4876 View (917) 242-4876
Photo of Katherine Falk, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Katherine Falk
Psychiatrist, MD, ABIOM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025  (Online Only)
Dr. Katherine Falk practices Integrative and Holistic Psychiatry in New York City.She is also licensed in CA, CT, IL, NJ, MA, PA and can treat those who live there by Telepsychiatry.In addition to providing psychotherapy, she has developed a method of evaluating the biological underpinnings of mental illness and recommends a personalized approach for each of her patients.Using natural substances, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, homeopathy–she is able to minimize (and often eliminate) the need for psychiatric medications. She has a longstanding interest in spirituality and, when appropriate, teaches breathing and meditation.
Dr. Katherine Falk practices Integrative and Holistic Psychiatry in New York City.She is also licensed in CA, CT, IL, NJ, MA, PA and can treat those who live there by Telepsychiatry.In addition to providing psychotherapy, she has developed a method of evaluating the biological underpinnings of mental illness and recommends a personalized approach for each of her patients.Using natural substances, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, homeopathy–she is able to minimize (and often eliminate) the need for psychiatric medications. She has a longstanding interest in spirituality and, when appropriate, teaches breathing and meditation.
(646) 933-0423 View (646) 933-0423
Photo of Dr. Vijal Parikh, D.O., Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Dr. Vijal Parikh, D.O.
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
As a licensed medical doctor and practicing psychiatrist, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental conditions. As an osteopathic, physician, my philosophy incorporates a complete integration of the mind and the body. My training, both in psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy (talk therapy), helps me incorporate both treatment modalities in my practice. This approach also relates to work I do in public mental health where I work part time providing mental health care to the homeless, severely mentally ill and LGBT at risk youth.
As a licensed medical doctor and practicing psychiatrist, I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of mental conditions. As an osteopathic, physician, my philosophy incorporates a complete integration of the mind and the body. My training, both in psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy (talk therapy), helps me incorporate both treatment modalities in my practice. This approach also relates to work I do in public mental health where I work part time providing mental health care to the homeless, severely mentally ill and LGBT at risk youth.
(646) 681-6152 View (646) 681-6152
Photo of Nitasha Shetty, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Nitasha Shetty
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. This can be particularly challenging for those who have experienced trauma in the past, and I am committed to helping these individuals attain the same level of fulfillment in their lives.
I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to feel better understood as individuals, reach their personal goals, and forge more meaningful relationships. This can be particularly challenging for those who have experienced trauma in the past, and I am committed to helping these individuals attain the same level of fulfillment in their lives.
(646) 846-5438 View (646) 846-5438
Photo of Jessica Georges, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in New York, NY
Jessica Georges
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
All people are capable and deserving of meaningful and fulfilling lives. My mission is to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness while providing compassionate and high-quality care. I offer a psychodynamically-informed, hands-on approach with the intention of helping you develop awareness and insight into your thoughts and behaviors. While I may utilize psychopharmacological medications when clinically appropriate to help clients achieve their goals, I am committed to assisting you with developing the tools you need to lead a productive and meaningful life. I am dedicated to providing collaborative and holistic care.
All people are capable and deserving of meaningful and fulfilling lives. My mission is to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness while providing compassionate and high-quality care. I offer a psychodynamically-informed, hands-on approach with the intention of helping you develop awareness and insight into your thoughts and behaviors. While I may utilize psychopharmacological medications when clinically appropriate to help clients achieve their goals, I am committed to assisting you with developing the tools you need to lead a productive and meaningful life. I am dedicated to providing collaborative and holistic care.
(332) 263-3023 View (332) 263-3023
Photo of Zorica Filipovic-Jewell, Psychiatrist in New York, NY
Zorica Filipovic-Jewell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
I have a strong commitment to the well-being of my patients. My goal is to enable them to move on and maintain optimum quality of life, by providing support and a cutting edge, evidence-based care. After a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and assessing individual's goals, together we discuss findings and recommendations and create strategy with a specific treatment plan. I work with individuals experiencing wide range of psychiatric issues, such as anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, OCD, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, etc. I enjoy working with patients of all ethnicities/religions/sexual orientations/identities.
(646) 859-4451 View (646) 859-4451
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Psychiatrists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.