Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

When: Every Thursday 15h30 – 17h00 from 4 May 2023 – 22 June 2023, plus Saturday 10 June
Where: Online
Cost: R9000 (medical aid claim possible)

Who is this course suitable for?

Anyone with a history of depression who is currently in remission

• MBCT is shown to reduce relapse of depression
• MBCT could allow a patient to stop antidepressants

How do I register?

Please email us at groups@drtessaroos.co.za

We will schedule a free pre-course chat online to discuss the course individually. At this meeting we will decide together if the course is right for you.

What about my current treatment for depression: therapy and medication?
Please discuss attending the MBCT course with your psychologist and / or psychiatrist and continue your current treatment with them. We will discuss your individual needs at our free pre-course interview online.

Will my medical aid pay?
We will apply to the medical aid for funding. Some may cover the course fees in full or partially, to discuss with us at your free pre-course interview. The medical aid will not pay for missed sessions.

What is mindfulness?
Mindfulness is a way of being, taught through a range of very simple exercises that bring our awareness to what is happening right now. It allows us to gain perspective, to step back from the intensity of our experience and see what is really going on. With this perspective, we can act with more wisdom and clarity. We can enjoy our lives more fully when we are truly present and discard the layers of stress we add through trying to control the uncontrollable.

Where is MBCT from?
MBCT was developed by

• Zindel Segal (Professor of psychology At the University of Toronto),
• Mark Williams (Professor of clinical psychology at the University of Oxford)
• John Teasdale (PhD, research scientist at Oxford and Cambridge Universities)

It grew out of the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn as well as cognitive behavioral therapy and uses an understanding of why people with depression are prone to relapse.

How do the classes run?
You will be introduced to different forms of mindfulness practice which include sitting meditation, walking meditation, body scan and mindful movement. Through teaching and discussion, you will develop an understanding of your thought patterns and how these can increase vulnerability to episodes of depression. Together, we practice how to address this cycle and put the brakes on self-defeating ruminative thinking.

Do I need mindfulness experience?
No. This course is suitable for beginners as well as those with an established mindfulness practice.

Do I need to be able to sit on the floor? What about my mobility impairment?
No physical fitness is required. We will mostly be sitting on chairs, and all physical postures can be modified to suit your needs.

What about faith and religion?
Mindfulness is a secular practice which will not interfere with any religious or spiritual beliefs. We welcome everyone to try it out.

What is the home practice in between classes?
Each week home practice will be prescribed which includes following a 45 minute guided mindfulness practice at home six days of the week. Informal practices such as mindfulness of a routine activity will also be prescribed.

What is the difference between MBSR and MBCT?
MBSR is for anyone looking to reduce stress and learn to practice mindfulness. MBCT is specific for those with a history of depression and is focused on reducing future episodes of depression. However, there is a lot of overlap and at their heart they are both Mindfulness based; teaching the art of mindfulness. Please chat to us if you are unsure which is right for you.

When will future courses run?
Please email or call to enquire about the MBSR or MBCT courses.

Tessa and Melane are certified mindfulness teachers through IMISA and Stellenbosch University.

Dr Tessa Roos, specialist psychiatrist
MBChB (UCT), FCPsych (SA),
RCPsych (United Kingdom)

Dr Melane Van Zyl, specialist psychiatrist
MBChB, FCPsych (SA)
www.drmelanevanzyl.com