Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention for Addiction

An innovative program offering an option to traditional aftercare or 12-step programs, for adults in recovery from alcohol, drug, or other substance addiction – or who are simply concerned about problematic substance use: Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP)

Developed by Drs Alan Marlatt, Sarah Bowen, and Neha Chawla of the University of Washington, MBRP integrates mindfulness practices with evidence-based cognitive and behavioral strategies and gets to the root of addictive behavior by targeting two of the main predictors of relapse: negative emotions and cravings.

MBRP is an 8-week course. Each session includes a meditation practice as well as a CBT practice — for example, noticing problematic thoughts as they arise, and writing them down, to increase awareness of triggering thoughts, habitual patterns, and automatic reactions. The emphasis is on practical skills for day-to-day life.

Here’s what Sarah Bowen, co-developer, says about the program:

“. . . it’s helping people become really aware of what’s happening in their minds. Once they see that, they have a choice and they have some freedom. . . . There’s a tremendous amount of trust and respect in this program. I think where it’s really different is that we’re looking at the human condition and what it means to be human, much more than simply asking, “How are you going to not use drugs again?” That’s where it’s a radical shift. . . .”
(MBRP Interview in Huffington Post, 11/18/15)

MBRP LIVE ONLINE COURSE – FALL 2021

An 8-week program designed to target behaviors and emotions that can lead to relapse
This course will meet via Zoom videoconferencing, with HIPAA-compliant encryption
Course starts Sept 21 and ends Nov 9 2021
(Please reserve the same time on Nov 16 to allow for the rare case of a session cancellation.)
Course meets on Tuesdays from 5:30 – 7:30 pm Pacific Time
This is a closed group limited to 8 adults who have at least 30 days of sobriety
Participants are expected to do daily home practice
Course fee is $395, non-refundable once the course starts
14 CE credits available for Health Professionals, including psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs and RNs

The teachings of this course are appropriate for healthcare professionals as well as the general public. Healthcare professionals will be able to incorporate the tools and practices offered in this program in ways beneficial to clients or patients. CE credit is awarded for instructional time only and does not include extended yoga or meditation sessions. For learning objectives for this course, download CE course flyer.

If you are a health professional interested in receiving CE credit, please see the Continuing Education page.

Click here to contact Rebecca for more information about the course

Rebecca Stanwyck, LCSW, BCD

Rebecca Stanwyck, LCSW, BCD

Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention for Addiction