More on MBCT
MBCT was developed by researchers in Toronto and in the UK, based on the MBSR program created in the 1970s by Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Mindfulness is originally a Buddhist practice and Kabat-Zinn is credited with its integration into mainstream Western psychology and medicine.
In contrast to MBSR–a general program designed to reduce stress via mindfulness practice–MBCT specifically targets relapse prevention for mood and anxiety disorders. Through a variety of mindfulness meditations, informal mindfulness practices, and cognitive-behavioural strategies, the MBCT program will help you approach moment-to-moment experience skilfully, take pleasure in small everyday joys, and cope more effectively with challenges. You’ll learn to decrease rumination and to catch early symptoms of mood and anxiety episodes before they set in. Research has shown that MBCT reduces rates of relapse by 50% among individuals who suffer from recurrent depression.
Mindfulness is simple but requires practice. The calm presence of MindSpace teachers and the supportive group environment will allow you to integrate the MBCT tools and develop your personal mindfulness practice at your own pace. With your practice in place, you’ll have a personal mental fitness program that will help keep you well over the long run.
Our MBCT groups meet for two hours per week, with an all-day silent meditation retreat between weeks six and seven. Participants are provided with audio guides for at-home meditation practice. No prior experience with mindfulness or meditation is necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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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.
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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.
