Using Mindfulness Based Approaches for Change
The popularity of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has seen a renewed interest in Mindfulness Based Approaches. There is growing evidence for the effectiveness of mindfulness for a range of psychological and physical issues. Research has shown efficacy for low mood, anxiety, substance misuse, insomnia, digestive problems and pain relief. It has also shown promise in helping prevent relapse, stress reduction and promoting recovery.
For may people "over focusing" on and attaching unhelpful meanings to thoughts and feelings can lead to distress and the constant triggering of the "fight or flight" mechanism where it is not needed. Our minds can end up mechanically forming judgements about experiences which are not helpful. Mindfulness is about developing the ability to focus on the present moment, participating and
being fully in that experience: while not reacting in a way that passes judgement about that experience. The goal of mindfulness is not to directly challenge the content of thoughts; rather it is about cultivating a different attitude or relationship to thoughts, feelings and sensations.
This one day course aims to equip participants with the practical skills to use mindfulness based approaches with their clients.
Course Objectives
- Learning how focusing attention in a 'mindful' way can reduce anxiety and improve mood and lead people to have some skills to better deal with distress
- Discover how mindfulness is an effective way of managing problematic thoughts and feelings
- Learn the practical applications of mindfulness and how to use these with clients
- How reducing emotional distress can increase problem solving abilities and create choices for responding rather than reacting to situations.