Treating Adolescents with Family-Based Mindfulness

In recognizing the apparent lack of an effective treatment approach for adolescents with problem behaviors, Dr. Jack Apsche developed a new contextual therapy, which he termed Mode Deactivation Therapy (MDT). Built on a cognitive theory framework, a unique approach to create functional alternative beliefs was infused with elements from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness practice. More than 30 separate research studies to date proved the effectiveness of MDT with empirical evidence and demonstrated its superiority compared to other therapy approaches for an adolescent population with behavior and other co-existing problems. These include substance abuse, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, aggression, and suicidality. Overall, more than 90% of participants in the research studies reported a history of childhood physical and sexual abuse, neglect, and exposure to violence. These circumstances commonly lead to core beliefs created as a protective response mechanism. Although these may not be appropriate in other daily situations, thoughts and emotions are automatically activated, which results in dysfunctional behavior to which affected persons generally respond negatively. Hereby the circle of negative beliefs and dysfunctional behavior is further reinforced and strengthened.