Treating Depression with Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Course overview

Although the most widespread treatment for depression today is the use of antidepressants, current research is showing that mindfulness, self-compassion and a few other key mindsets can be equally potent for releasing natural antidepressants in the brain. This workshop will explore how the latest neuroscience research can illuminate our approach with depressed clients, especially the discovery of the parallels between the effects of trauma and depression on the brain. Participants will learn key ways to help clients break out of bad habits that keep them stuck in a depressive loop, and understand how changing ones mindset can make the difference between sinking deeper into a rut versus bouncing back with greater resiliency. Drawing from proven mindfulness-based programs, acceptance and commitment therapy , work by Brene Brown and others, this approach will help clients learn how to develop core strengths that not only help them bounce back sooner, but uncover an innate sense of confidence and joy that can lead to a more enduring sense of well-being. Throughout the day, participants will also see how they can use these principles for their own self-care.