Mindfulness is a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, without judgment. Mindfulness’ practice is an evidence-based therapeutic technique that reduces anxiety while increasing alertness and engagement.
Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) is an empirically supported 8-week program designed to cultivate the skills of self-compassion. Based on the pioneering research, MSC teaches core principles and practices that enable participants to respond to difficult emotions with kindness and understanding. Each week participants will learn mindfulness meditation techniques and learn how mindfulness practice can be used in everyday life. There will be about eight group members and it is a requirement that participants attend each of the five weeks.
The MSC program activities include meditation, short talks, experiential exercises, group discussion, and home practices. It is a powerful program, which can be expected to have a beneficial personal impact. Benefits of the program for individuals include less anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as and greater life satisfaction.
About the Teacher: Dr Tara Hickey works as a Mindfulness practitioner and clinical psychologist. Her passion for mindfulness developed several years ago after sitting a Mindfulness–Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program were she developed a particular interest in compassion. She trained as a MBSR practitioner with Openground, Australia and went on to complete her Mindful Self-Compassion teacher training in the US with its pioneers Dr Kristin Neff and Dr Christopher Germer. Tara now offers the 8-week mindful self-compassion course at the VCPS.
Max attendees: 12 so space is limited.
Payment plans and Medicare rebates available. You will need a referral from a GP (a Mental Health Care Plan) to receive a rebate for this service, and the total out of pocket expense will be $91.75. There will be an initial $250 up front payment with $31.65 refunded in your bank account each week after group attendance. This Medicare refund will not occur if you do not attend.
