Mindfulness Therapy

What is mindfulness therapy?

Mindfulness Therapy is an approach to treatment that focuses on how people’s thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behaviour and how they perceive themselves, others, and the world. The ability to be in the moment, to acknowledge and accept your emotions helps you to break free from negative thought patterns.

How does mindfulness therapy work?

Mindfulness therapy is an effective form of psychotherapy that can be used on its own or in conjunction with other treatment methods. The goal of mindfulness is to be fully in the present moment by being aware of our thoughts and feelings, without judgement and use that knowledge to positively guide our actions. Mindfulness therapy is easily practiced and can help you to:

• Quiet your mind
• Be in the present moment
• Accept and acknowledge your feelings without judgment
• Understand your thoughts and feelings
• Be aware of yourself and your environment
• Resolve your emotions
• Improve concentration
• Avoid negative thought patterns

Your therapist can assist you with mindfulness by doing breathing exercises with you, performing guided imagery to help with meditation, and to learn how to increase your tolerance to distress.

When is mindfulness therapy used?

Mindfulness therapy has been effective in treating:

• ADHD
• Adolescent and teen issues
• Anxiety
• Mental health disorders
• Personality disorders
• Emotional abuse
• Depression
• Stress management
• Trauma
• Trichotillomania (hair pulling disorder)
• Eating disorders

This type of therapy may be used to treat other conditions and concerns in addition to those listed above. It may also be used in conjunction with other treatment methods. Your therapist will work with you to determine the best treatment method for your individual circumstances.

You should be aware that there is no treatment method that is successful for every person. What works for you, may not work for someone else.

What to expect from therapy

Put simply, you will get out of therapy what you put into it. It’s not a magic solution that will solve all your problems. It may involve you doing some real work and being completely honest with yourself and your therapist. Sometimes facing our truth is the hardest thing of all – but from that discomfort can come healing and growth.

Insight’s therapists are available for in-person, online, or telephone counselling at several locations in Alberta. Contact us to learn more.