Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) for NHS Patients and GP Surgeries

Evidence-based. Locally delivered. Compassionate support for treatment-resistant depression.

What is MBCT?

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a structured, 8-week group course designed to support individuals experiencing ongoing symptoms of low mood, anxiety, or stress. It combines mindfulness practices with evidence-based cognitive strategies to help patients develop greater emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the ability to respond more skilfully to difficult thoughts and feelings.

MBCT is recognised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for the prevention of depressive relapse and has been widely adopted in NHS and mental health settings across the UK.

Backed by Research

A 2024 study published in The Lancet Psychiatry (University of Surrey) found that MBCT was as effective as antidepressants in people with difficult-to-treat depression, and cost-effective at under £100 per patient.

The course used in the study followed the standard Oxford MBCT format, including:

• 8 weekly sessions

• One Day of Practice

• Structured home learning

• Group-based facilitation by trained teachers

"About 50 percent of patients continue to experience symptoms after NHS Talking Therapies (formerly IAPT). MBCT offers an additional option that is accessible, acceptable, and effective." — Lead researcher, University of Surrey

Read the full article

Benefits for NHS Teams and GP Surgeries

• NICE-recognised, evidence-based intervention

• Cost-effective delivery at £100 per participant

• Accessible format: delivered online or at local venues

• Scalable and flexible: individual or group referrals welcome

• No administrative burden: we manage patient contact and onboarding

• Complementary to NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT): ideal for patients not fully recovering through CBT or hesitant to continue medication

Course Format

• 8 weekly sessions (2 hours and 15 minutes)

• One 5-hour Day of Practice

• Delivered online via Zoom or in suitable local venues

• Led by James Wittering, trained by the Oxford Mindfulness Foundation

• Group size capped at 16

• Includes full course materials and guided home practice support

Who Is It For?

• Patients experiencing persistent symptoms following NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT)

• Individuals reluctant to pursue or continue medication

• People experiencing depressive relapse or recurrent stress

• Those who would benefit from a skills-based, group psychological approach

About Wittering Wellbeing

James Wittering is a certified MBCT teacher trained through the Oxford Mindfulness Foundation. He delivers MBCT courses throughout Worcestershire and the surrounding area via Wittering Wellbeing.

Wittering Wellbeing provides evidence-based mindfulness training in a non-clinical tone, suitable for patients from all backgrounds. James' teaching integrates mindfulness, compassion, and psychological insight. Sessions are inclusive, trauma-sensitive, and rooted in a nature-informed approach.

Courses have been delivered for public sector organisations, council wellbeing initiatives, NHS staff groups, and open community cohorts.