Mindfulness-informed therapy integrates present moment awareness as a tool that allows people to disengage from mental preoccupations and difficult emotions. The therapist teaches the practice of present moment awareness through non-judgmental observation of the mind and body.
Mindfulness is a conscious awareness of our present moment. This includes openness and non-judgment about the experience. It is often coupled with other types of therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy
DBT), or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Mindfulness therapy is not concerned with relaxation, though that might be a result of certain practices. The focus is on increasing our awareness of the thoughts, feelings, and actions that hinder our progress. When we are better able to do that, we can engage with those aspects of ourselves, learn to tweak our language, and choose how to respond.
As your psychotherapist, I incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and the practice of being present throughout our time together. Some benefits of mindfulness therapy are:
- Helps reduce stress
- Improves respiratory and cardiovascular function
- Helps people recover from addictions
- Reduces anxiety, depression, and chronic pain
- Improves sleep quality