Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) – Fall 2020

with Dr. Joe Flanders
| 28 September, 2020 - 16 November, 2020

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an eight-week workshop designed to help people who struggle with repeated mood and anxiety problems. MBCT offers a unique opportunity to restore well-being and prevent future episodes of anxiety and depression.

In 8 weeks of psycho-education, guided meditations, group dialogue, and home practice, you’ll learn:

  • What depression is and why you’re vulnerable
  • How to avoid the same old automatic reactions
  • New and helpful ways of responding to triggers
  • How to live in the present and reconnect with the joy and meaning in your life

This program includes 8 2.5 hour sessions as well as a half-day retreat on the weekend following the 6th session. Please note this group is currently planned to meet in-person at Mindspace’s studio in Westmount. In the event that public healthy policy in September dictates that this will not be possible, the group will be moved online and you will be notified.

This class is offered in English.

What to expect when signing-up:
When you click register you’ll be taken to our Mindbody Online site where you’ll be asked to create an account (if you don’t already have one), provide some basic information, and pay a 20% deposit to secure your spot. Once you’ve completed that process you will receive a confirmation email with a link to a questionnaire to help us ensure you’re a good fit for the program, along with details on next steps. Please review this email and fill out the questionnaire as soon as possible. If you do not receive a confirmation email after signing up, please contact us.

Please note: If you are currently going through clinical depression, have suicidal ideations, a recognized problem with substance abuse or alcohol, symptoms related to unresolved PTSD or a history of psychosis, this group is not recommended for you, and we recommend that you request an appointment with our therapy clinic or contact us for other group options.

Instructors

Dr. Joe Flanders

Dr. Joe Flanders is the founder and director of Mindspace and an assistant professor in the McGill University Psychology Department. Dr. Flanders offers Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to individuals, groups, and organizations. Dr. Flanders works with clients in English and in French.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Should I take MBSR or MBCT?

    MBSR is open to anyone who is interested in decreasing stress and learning a new way of relating skillfully to their experience. It is not recommended for individuals with recurrent clinical anxiety or depression, but rather is meant to help improve management of everyday stressors (e.g., work, relationships, health).

    In contrast, MBCT is designed specifically to help prevent relapse in individuals who have struggled with acute/clinical anxiety or depression. If you’ve been treated for an anxiety disorder or for one ore more depressive episodes in the past, and are ready to learn new skills for preventing further episodes, MBCT is for you.

    MBSR and MBCT teachers will confirm participant eligibility at the mandatory orientation session one week prior to the start of the program.

  • Do I need to know anything about mindfulness or meditation to take your courses?

    No, Intro to Mindfulness, Individual Training and our MBSR program are ideal places to start, but all our programs are suitable for people with no experience in meditation or mindfulness. MBCT is designed specifically for individuals recovering from recurrent clinical anxiety or depression.

  • Why do I have to attend an orientation session prior to starting the group?

    Mindspace wants to make sure that each participant has a good experience in the MBSR, MBCT or MSC program. The orientation session provides a chance for you to see for yourself what the program is about, so that you can make an informed decision. Likewise, if the instructor determines that MBSR, MBCT or MSC may not be the right fit at the right time for you, we’ll make sure to orient you toward the best alternative.