Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based, 8-week group program that combines mindfulness practice with insights from cognitive therapy.

Rather than trying to eliminate difficult thoughts or feelings, MBCT helps people notice patterns early, develop a new relationship to themselves and whatever in life causes them difficulty, and gain more choice in how they respond — especially during times of stress, anxiety, or low mood.

This course is intended for people who:

• experience recurring patterns of stress, anxiety, or low mood

• notice getting caught in rumination, worry, or self-criticism

• want to cultivate a steadier, kinder relationship with their inner experience

• are able to participate in a group learning environment

• can commit to regular attendance and home practice for the 8 weeks of the course

Many participants who are already engaged in psychotherapy, treatment for physical illnesses, or using integrative medicine/naturopaths may find MBCT a helpful complement.

MBCT may not be the best fit for people who are:

• currently in acute crisis

• needing intensive, individual therapeutic support at this time

• unable to engage in group learning

• unable to commit to regular attendance or home practice

MBCT is not a substitute for individual therapy or medical care.
The orientation session helps determine whether the course feels appropriate at this time.

The course includes:

• 8 weekly online group sessions (approximately 2 hours each)

• One half-day online retreat

• A required orientation session before the course begins

• Guided mindfulness practices, reflection, and discussion

• A small, consistent group container

The group experience is an important part of the learning process.

Yes. Participants are invited to engage in regular home practice, typically about 45 minutes per day, 6 days a week.

The emphasis is not on doing this “perfectly,” but on developing curiosity, consistency, and kindness toward one’s experience.
As we often say in MBCT: the pace creates space.

The orientation session is a chance to:

• learn more about MBCT

• experience a brief mindfulness practice

• ask questions

• and sense whether the course feels like a good fit

The orientation supports an informed and mutual decision about participation.
There is no obligation to continue after orientation. Should you enroll and cancel before orientation, you will receive a full refund. If you cancel after the orientation but before the course begins, will receive a refund minus $100 for administrative fees.

No.
MBCT is designed to be accessible to people who are new to mindfulness, while still offering depth for those with prior experience.

MBCT is a structured, educational program, not group psychotherapy.

While it is often facilitated by licensed clinicians and grounded in psychological research, the focus is on learning skills and cultivating awareness, rather than processing personal history in depth.

MBCT integrates mindfulness practice with an understanding of how patterns of thinking, reacting, and mood interact.

Participants learn to recognize early signs of stress or low mood and to respond with greater awareness and care, rather than being pulled into habitual cycles.

The course is designed to be supportive through:

• clear structure and guidance

• a consistent and respectful group environment

• careful pacing and attention to safety

• optional brief individual check-ins as needed