- Standard MBCT programs usually last 8 weeks.
That’s the typical structure developed by Segal, Williams, and Teasdale (the original creators of MBCT).
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- You’ll have one group session per week, about 2 to 2.5 hours each.
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- Plus, there’s often a half-day (or full day) mindfulness retreat around week 6 or 7.
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- You’re expected to practice mindfulness exercises daily (about 30–45 minutes a day) in between sessions.
Overall, you can expect approximately 2 months of structured therapy, plus daily at-home practice.
- After the 8 weeks: What happens next?
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- Some people feel ready to continue on their own using what they learned.
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- Others join “booster sessions” or mindfulness maintenance groups to stay on track. These might meet monthly or every few months.
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- Some clinics or therapists also offer “MBCT follow-up programs” that last for another few months if someone’s had multiple depressive episodes.
- Long-term practice matters.
Realistic timeline:
| Phase: | Duration: |
| Core MBCT program. | 8 weeks. |
| Home mindfulness practice. | 8+ weeks (ideally ongoing). |
| Optional booster sessions. | Every month or two. |
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