MBSR vs MBCT
Mindfulness for Stress
When is MBCT needed? When is MBSR needed?
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), was Created by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979
Mindfulness Based - Cognitive Therapy (MB-CT) was created by 3 leading Psychologists in 2000
The creators of MBCT are Zindel V. Segal, J. Mark G. Williams and John D. Teasdale
Similarities
Both are 8-week workshops
Both teach basic meditation skills
Both are taught by trained instructors
Both have sessions that are 2 to 2.5 hours in length, plus a Retreat day
Both include guided meditations during the classes
Both use inquiry to help people learn from their experience
Both use home practice to increase understanding, and provide a basis for discussion in the weekly meetings
Both are helpful for people seeking wellness and greater enjoyment of life
Important Differences
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MBSR: Typically starts with an Orientation.
MBCT: Typically starts with an individual diagnostic interview.
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MBSR: Physical pain, time stress, sleep stress, role stress, and food stress.
MBCT: Negative thinking, preventing depression relapse, anxiety, panic, self-criticism, lack of self-compassion, acceptance. MBCT more generally is helpful with mental health and chronic medical conditions.
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MBSR: Large group format with 25 - 40 participants per group.
MBCT: Maximum of 10 participants for individualized attention.
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MBSR: Often yoga teachers or healers; some therapists trained in MBSR.
MBCT: Licensed mental health professionals.
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MBSR: Greater emphasis on Yoga content.
MBCT: Can be learned individually or in group.
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