You generally stop formal MBCT after the 8-week program finishes, unless there’s a specific reason to continue longer.
But whether you “stop” completely depends on a few factors:
- When the structured program ends
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- MBCT is designed as a closed, time-limited program.
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- The formal sessions usually wrap up after 8 weeks (plus maybe a retreat day).
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- Most people don’t need ongoing weekly sessions after that unless they’re doing extra follow-up work.
- When your symptoms are stable
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- It’s a good time to “graduate” if your mood feels stable and you’ve built a consistent mindfulness practice that you can manage on your own.
- If it’s not helping or is making things worse
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- It might be time to stop early and discuss other treatment options if you notice that mindfulness consistently intensifies emotional distress, causes dissociation, or feels devastating during the program.
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- Open communication with your therapist is key here. MBCT isn’t the right fit for everyone at every moment.
- When you feel you’ve internalized the skills
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- MBCT’s real success is when mindfulness and cognitive awareness become part of your daily life, not something you need sessions to maintain.
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- Some people continue informal practice (like daily meditation, mindful walking, or breathwork) without needing a therapist anymore.
Signs it’s okay to stop MBCT:
- Your depressive symptoms are much reduced.
- You feel confident using mindfulness when difficulties arise.
- You don’t feel “dependent” on the therapy to stay stable.
- You’re motivated to continue mindfulness independently.
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