Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
an 8-Week Clinical Group Program in melbourne & Sri Lanka
A structured, evidence-based approach to working with anxiety, stress, burnout, and recurrent depression.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an evidence-based psychological approach that integrates mindfulness practices with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Originally developed for depression relapse prevention, MBCT is now widely used in clinical settings across Melbourne and globally to support individuals experiencing anxiety, chronic stress, burnout, and emotional overwhelm.
At Ananda Wellness, this 8-week MBCT program offers a structured and clinically grounded pathway to developing a more stable and aware relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and internal experiences.
MBCT is effective for:
Depression relapse prevention
Anxiety and excessive worry
Chronic stress and burnout
Overthinking and rumination
Emotional reactivity and overwhelm
Trauma-informed support (including PTSD adaptations)
Keyword layer: MBCT Melbourne, mindfulness therapy Melbourne, anxiety therapy Melbourne, depression support Melbourne
HOW IT WORKS:
MBCT does not aim to eliminate difficult thoughts or emotions. Instead, it develops the capacity to:
Recognise patterns of thinking as they arise, Interrupt cycles of rumination and reactivity, Respond to stress with greater awareness and regulation, Build a more stable and compassionate relationship with internal experience. This shift is subtle, but clinically significant.
Rather than attempting to eliminate difficult thoughts or emotions, MBCT develops the capacity to notice, understand, and respond to them with greater awareness and stability.
CLINICAL OUTCOMES
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy is supported by a substantial body of research and is recognised as a frontline intervention for recurrent depression. Clinical outcomes include:
Reduced risk of depressive relapse (particularly in recurrent depression)
Decreased rumination and cognitive reactivity
Improved emotional regulation
Reduction in anxiety and stress symptoms
Increased self-awareness and attentional control
Greater psychological flexibility and self-compassion
These outcomes are often sustained beyond the program through continued application of the practices.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
8-Week MBCT Program - This program is delivered in line with established MBCT clinical protocols. Each week includes:
Guided mindfulness practices (body scan, breath awareness, mindful movement)
Cognitive inquiry and therapeutic reflection
Psychoeducation on thinking patterns and emotional processes
Practical tools for managing stress, anxiety, and low mood
Structured home practice for integration
Time Commitment: Weekly 2-hour sessions + Daily home practice (approx. 20–40 minutes)
Participants are supported to develop both an experiential understanding of mindfulness and practical strategies that can be applied in daily life.
THE GROUP EXPERIENCE
MBCT is traditionally delivered in a small group setting, which is considered central to its effectiveness.
The group provides:
A professionally facilitated and clinically safe environment
Shared insight and reflection
Normalisation of common psychological patterns
A balance of personal experience and collective learning
While the work is individual, the group context often deepens integration and accountability.
WHO THIS IS FOR
This program is suitable for individuals who:
Have experienced recurrent depression
Feel stuck in cycles of anxiety or overthinking
Are experiencing stress or burnout
Want a structured, evidence-based approach to mental wellbeing
Are open to engaging in both in-session and at-home practices
