FOY Wellness and Recovery is a licensed PHP and IOP program in Agoura Hills, California. Our clinical program is developed and overseen by Clinical Program Director Dr. Shannon Dobbs, a licensed clinical psychologist. MBCT is offered as a core clinical modality, particularly relevant for clients with recurring depression.
What Is MBCT?
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness meditation practice, originally developed and researched specifically to prevent relapse in individuals with recurrent depression. MBCT helps clients recognize early warning signs of a depressive episode and relate to negative thought patterns with greater awareness and less automatic reactivity, rather than becoming pulled into rumination.
How MBCT Works
MBCT typically follows a structured format combining guided mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy techniques, helping clients notice depressive thought patterns as they arise and respond with awareness rather than automatic rumination or avoidance.
MBCT at FOY
MBCT principles are integrated into both individual therapy and group holistic programming that includes meditation, giving clients a structured, evidence-based approach specifically aimed at reducing depression relapse risk.
Conditions MBCT Addresses
- Recurrent major depressive disorder
- Chronic low mood and rumination
- Anxiety with depressive features
- Relapse risk following a depressive episode
What to Expect
MBCT typically combines guided mindfulness exercises with cognitive therapy discussion, helping you build both present-moment awareness and practical strategies for managing depressive thought patterns.
FAQs
Is MBCT the same as meditation offered in holistic programming?
MBCT is a structured clinical therapy that incorporates mindfulness meditation as one component alongside cognitive therapy techniques; general meditation sessions in holistic programming are a separate, complementary offering.
Is MBCT specifically for depression, or does it help with anxiety too?
MBCT was developed and most extensively researched for depression relapse prevention, though its mindfulness and cognitive components can also support anxiety symptoms.
Do I need meditation experience for MBCT?
No, MBCT sessions guide clients through mindfulness practice regardless of prior experience.
Is MBCT evidence-based?
Yes, MBCT has a strong, specific evidence base for reducing relapse risk in individuals with a history of recurrent depression.
How is MBCT different from CBT?
MBCT incorporates structured mindfulness meditation practice alongside cognitive therapy techniques, with a specific focus on relapse prevention rather than acute symptom reduction alone.
Can MBCT help if I’ve never had a diagnosed depressive episode?
MBCT’s mindfulness and cognitive skills can be broadly useful for stress and mood management, though it was specifically developed and researched for relapse prevention in recurrent depression.
Will I continue MBCT skills after discharge?
Yes, MBCT skills, including recognizing early warning signs and mindfulness practice, are designed to be used independently long-term.
Is MBCT covered by insurance?
MBCT is delivered as part of FOY’s PHP and IOP clinical programming, billed as a level of care. Contact our admissions team about your specific plan.
Take the First Step
Call (805) 659-8429 or visit foywellnessandrecovery.com/contact for a free confidential assessment. We are in-network with Blue Shield, Cigna, and TRICARE through TriWest, and accept most other major PPO plans, including Anthem, Aetna, Multiplan, HMC HealthWorks, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, on an out-of-network basis.