Hi there, I’m Tracy! I’m a certified mindfulness mediation coach and the owner of Moody Mindfulness for Resilient Shades, LLC and Shades of Resilience Counseling, PLLC. In my opinion, not everyone struggling emotionally needs intensive therapy but still needs support to get through the rough patches. I believe that mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool for healing, growth, and well-being.
Mindfulness meditation isn’t woo-woo, magic, or anything mysterious. Truth be told, for me personally, I don’t use any special pillows or sit in any particular position, my practice is far from “pretty”, meaning I’ve cussed and have “an attitude” aka Moody AF at the start of my practice but always feel much better afterward.
Thus the name Moody Mindfulness…
Moody Mindfulness offers low-cost meditation coaching as an alternative to traditional therapy for individuals who are not in crisis or dysregulated. It is important for individuals to have the ability to self-regulate before beginning any mindfulness meditation practice.
Moody Mindfulness aims to provide techniques for individuals who are hesitant to try therapy, interested in mindfulness meditation or interested in developing new coping skills either independently or in conjunction with traditional therapy.
Mindfulness meditation practice, whether done alone or in a group, is equally effective in improving mood, reducing anxiety and stress, and promoting physical health.
So what's the Difference between therapy and mindfulness meditation coaching?
Therapy and mindfulness coaching both aim to improve an individual’s mental well-being, but they have different approaches, methods, and focuses.
Objectives:
- Therapy: The primary objective of therapy is to help individuals understand, manage, and resolve emotional, psychological, and mental health issues. This includes addressing past traumas, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.
- Mindfulness Coaching: Mindfulness coaching aims to teach individuals how to live in the present moment through awareness, acceptance, and non-judgment of their thoughts, emotions, and sensations. The main goal is to improve an individual’s overall well-being, reduce stress, and enhance their ability to cope with life’s challenges.
Methods:
- Therapy: Therapists use various evidence-based techniques and approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy, to help individuals understand the root causes of their issues and develop coping strategies.
- Mindfulness Coaching: Mindfulness coaches teach individuals various mindfulness practices, such as meditation, body scans, and mindful breathing, to help them develop and maintain a state of non-judgmental awareness.
Professional background:
- Therapy: Therapists are licensed mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or clinical social workers, with extensive training and education in diagnosing and treating mental health issues.
- Mindfulness Coaching: Mindfulness coaches may come from various backgrounds, and their training and credentials can vary. While some may have formal education in psychology or counseling, others may have completed mindfulness coaching certifications or training programs.
Focus:
- Therapy: Therapy primarily focuses on resolving psychological and emotional issues, helping individuals gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
- Mindfulness Coaching: Mindfulness coaching focuses on enhancing an individual’s awareness, acceptance, and presence in the present moment, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Duration:
- Therapy: Therapy sessions usually last for a set period, and the duration of therapy varies depending on the individual’s needs and progress.
- Mindfulness Coaching: Mindfulness coaching sessions can be short-term or ongoing, depending on the individual’s goals and progress. Some people may participate in mindfulness coaching for a specific period, while others may continue long-term as a way to maintain and deepen their mindfulness practice.
In conclusion, therapy and mindfulness coaching both serve to enhance mental well-being but differ in their objectives, methods, professional backgrounds, focus, and duration. While therapy addresses mental health concerns and emotional issues, mindfulness coaching focuses on cultivating present-moment awareness and acceptance to improve overall well-being.