Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Reclaim your peace of mind and reduce the risk of depression or anxiety relapse.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a powerful eight-week program that blends the science of cognitive therapy with the gentle awareness practices of mindfulness. Originally designed to prevent relapse in people with recurring depression, MBCT is now widely used to support mental wellbeing, emotional resilience, and a greater sense of calm and control in daily life.

Through guided meditation, breathwork, gentle movement and reflective exercises, MBCT helps you recognise unhelpful thought patterns, become more aware of your inner experiences, and develop healthier, more compassionate responses to life’s challenges.

Who Is It For?

MBCT is especially helpful for people who have:

• A history of depression or anxiety

• Low mood or emotional overwhelm

• Bipolar disorder or OCD

• Stress-related health conditions

• Trouble switching off the mind

• A tendency to spiral into negative thinking

This approach is ideal for those wanting to prevent relapse or better manage recurring mental health challenges.

What Makes MBCT Different?

While traditional Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, MBCT brings mindful awareness to those thoughts, helping you relate to them with more acceptance and less judgment.

You’ll learn that thoughts are not facts – and you don’t have to get caught up in them.

MBCT introduces mindfulness techniques to help you:

• Slow down and observe your thoughts and feelings with curiosity

• Recognise early signs of a low mood or anxious spiral

• Respond rather than react to difficult emotions

• Let go of the inner critic and develop self-kindness

• Experience the present moment more fully – and enjoy life’s little joys

Program Overview

MBCT is delivered over 8 weekly sessions, each lasting around 2 hours. You’ll also receive audio-guided mindfulness practices to complete at home – ideally 45 minutes a day, six days a week – to help embed what you learn and apply it to your everyday life.

Sessions may include:

• Guided meditation and breath awareness

• Gentle yoga or movement

• Body scans for tension and grounding

• Group reflection and sharing

• Homework to reinforce your skills between sessions

Benefits of MBCT

✅ Prevents relapse into depression and anxiety
✅ Reduces reactivity and emotional overwhelm
✅ Builds emotional resilience and mental clarity
✅ Encourages acceptance and self-compassion
✅ Supports lasting positive change

Research shows MBCT can help individuals:

1. Understand their depression or anxiety more clearly

2. Recognise early warning signs and vulnerability to low mood

3. Interrupt the cycle of negative thinking before it takes hold

It’s a deeply supportive, practical approach that gives you real tools for real life.

Things to Consider

MBCT is a structured and rewarding program, but it does require consistent effort and personal practice. It may not be suitable for individuals experiencing a current mental health crisis, severe trauma, or acute psychological distress. If unsure, please speak with your doctor or mental health provider before enrolling.