Mindfulness Therapy with Psychologists in Melbourne

Illustration representing the range of therapies at Cova Psychology in Melbourne, including DBT, CBT, EMDR, and more, in a supportive and professional environment.

What is Mindfulness?

At Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne take a unique and effective approach to therapy. Our psychologists in Melbourne help clients improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. Unlike Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), which focuses on restructuring thoughts, mindfulness teaches awareness of the present moment and provides strategies for letting go of unhelpful thinking patterns.

Practising mindfulness has numerous benefits, including:

  • Letting go of negative thoughts
  • Improving emotional regulation
  • Living more fully in the present
  • Managing anxiety and fostering relaxation
  • Enhancing attention and focus

Mindfulness focuses on changing your relationship with thoughts rather than altering the thoughts themselves (as depicted in the illustration below). This shift can create a profound impact on mood and behaviour, making mindfulness an invaluable tool for improving mental health.

An illustration of a person with a thought bubble, highlighting how mindfulness helps change one's relationship with thoughts.

How Mindfulness Helps Mental Health

Research highlights that mindfulness significantly benefits mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Beyond clinical applications, mindfulness is linked to improved quality of life, better attention, and greater well-being for the general population.

At Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne are dedicated to empowering clients with these practices. Whether you’re managing stress, working through trauma, or building resilience, mindfulness offers a pathway to growth and healing.

What is Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)?

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines CBT with mindfulness practices to help clients manage anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Developed by leading psychologists, MBCT focuses on increasing awareness of thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations in the present moment.

At Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne use MBCT to break cycles of negative thinking. This balanced approach effectively addresses recurrent depression and anxiety, helping clients manage both thoughts and emotions constructively.

How CBT and Mindfulness Work Together

CBT and mindfulness complement one another to create a comprehensive approach to mental health care. CBT identifies and reframes negative thought patterns, while mindfulness encourages non-judgmental observation of these thoughts. Together, these approaches build emotional resilience and provide practical strategies for managing mental health effectively.

How MBCT Works

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines CBT with mindfulness techniques to support mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and stress. At Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne specialise in MBCT, helping clients develop self-awareness and emotional resilience.

This type of therapy teaches clients to observe their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without judgment. This practice fosters deeper self-understanding and reduces the impact of negative thought patterns on mental well-being.

Self-compassion and acceptance are central to MBCT. For individuals struggling with self-criticism or negative self-talk, MBCT provides tools to cultivate a kinder and more understanding relationship with themselves. This shift in perspective promotes healthier responses to emotions and life challenges.

By combining mindfulness practices with CBT techniques, MBCT addresses both cognitive and emotional aspects of mental health, offering a holistic approach to well-being.

Conditions MBCT Can Help With

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based approach that addresses various mental health conditions. At Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne use MBCT to support clients with:

  • Depression: Reduces symptoms, prevents relapse, and manages recurrent depression.
  • Anxiety: Provides tools for managing generalised anxiety, social anxiety, and panic disorders.
  • Stress: Equips clients with healthier coping mechanisms for managing stress.
  • PTSD: Alleviates symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance behaviours.
  • Eating Disorders: Supports recovery from anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.

This therapy is also beneficial for managing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), borderline personality disorder, and as a preventative measure to build resilience and maintain well-being.

MBCT Techniques and Exercises

MBCT incorporates practical exercises to cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. Common techniques include:

  • Mindfulness Meditation: Focuses on the breath, body, or emotions without judgment.
  • Body Scan: Guides awareness to different parts of the body, encouraging relaxation.
  • Mindful Movement: Incorporates activities like yoga or tai chi to connect with the body and surroundings.
  • Loving-Kindness Meditation: Builds compassion and kindness toward yourself and others.

These exercises help clients develop a more accepting relationship with their thoughts and feelings while addressing cognitive and emotional challenges.

What to Expect from Mindfulness Therapy

During mindfulness therapy sessions at Cova Psychology, our mindfulness psychologists in Melbourne work collaboratively with clients to create personalised plans tailored to their goals. Sessions may include mindfulness exercises, CBT techniques, and strategies for integrating mindfulness into daily life.

Mindfulness therapy enhances self-awareness, reduces stress, and promotes emotional balance. With the support of a skilled mindfulness psychologist, you’ll gain the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges and improve your well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • MBCT is a therapy that combines cognitive behaviour therapy with meditative practices and mindfulness-based approaches.

MBCT is a therapy that combines cognitive behaviour therapy with meditative practices and mindfulness-based approaches.

To help individuals develop a new relationship with their thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Yes, MBCT has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety and preventing relapse.

While you can learn some MBCT techniques on your own, working with a qualified therapist will provide extra support and guidance and enhance the practice.