Mindful Moms: Mechanisms of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy During Pregnancy and Postpartum

MBCT is an 8-week group-based treatment modality designed specifically to prevent recurrence of depressive symptoms. MBCT combines principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness meditation to help participants change the way in which they relate to automatic negative thinking patterns that trigger symptom recurrence. Through awareness and acceptance of negative thoughts and emotions, participants learn how to dismiss negative thoughts and to tolerate distress and uncertainty.

TAU (the control group) provides participants with information about the benefits of mindfulness in pregnancy and offers referrals for psychotherapy in the community. Participants in TAU are contacted monthly via phone or videoconference call to maintain engagement.