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Learn to Facilitate MBSR
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an empirically supported 8-week psycho-educational group that teaches mindfulness meditation as a health intervention. Created by Jon Kabat-Zinn in 1979, MBSR offers participants the possibility to develop a different relationship to stress resulting from chronic physical and psychological conditions. Research has demonstrated improved physical, psychological, and behavioural outcomes.
In cooperation with Centre for Mindfulness Stuides, our MBSR Facilitation Certificate is an internationally recognized training pathway to become an MBSR facilitator.
​The first three steps of the MBSR training program are attendance-based and intended to provide accepted applicants with a level of training to enable them to offer this modality to the public as Trained MBSR Facilitators. Step 4 then allows trainees to hone their skills through a process of assessing their competency and ensuring their abilities to become a Certified MBSR Facilitator.
Step 01 - Get Started
1 / 8-Week MBSR Personal Program
In order to facilitate the MBSR program with first-person experience and a “living foundation” (Kabat-Zinn, 2011), it is essential that trainees complete an in-person or online MBSR program as a participant.
2 /5-7 Day Silent Retreat
A 7-day (or longer) silent retreat is ideal while a 5-day silent retreat is sufficient.
3 / Daily Mindfulness Practice
​MBSR facilitators are expected to embody the practice throughout the 8-week program – not only during the scheduled sessions but with all participant and co-facilitator interactions. As a clear start to obtaining this goal, all trainees must have a personal mindfulness practice that includes at least 15 minutes per day of formal practice, at least 5 days per week, and have maintained a daily mindfulness practice for a minimum of 3 months.
Step 02 - Train
1 / Mindfulness Core Concepts
​Learn about the research and application of mindfulness in this 6-hour introductory training. This general course is most suitable for those interested in the personal and professional applications of mindfulness.
2 /MBSR Teacher Training Intensive
This intensive training will provide participants with the opportunity to study and experience the foundational underpinnings, mindfulness practices and specific exercises that are the framework of the MBSR program. Trainees will engage in teach-backs of the various meditations and exercises. Whether taken in-person or online, participants can expect to spend some periods in silence and others in active discussion and interaction. The course follows a concentrated schedule and it is highly recommended that trainees clear their schedules as much as possible and use any free time for rest, relaxation, and reflection on the course learnings.
3 / MBSR Practicum
This 10-week training module immerses trainees in the MBSR program as participants, facilitators, and observers. This highly interactive course provides the opportunity to lead meditations and inquiry in teach-backs, practice sessions, and recordings. During this practice, participants receive feedback and coaching in guidance, inquiry, session organization, and managing the group. A significant amount of reading and home practice is involved and it is highly recommended that trainees enroll 3-4 weeks in advance at which time they will receive access to the materials.
Step 03 - Practice
1 / MBSR Mentorship
The Centre for Mindfulness Studies has more than 10 Approved MBSR Mentors. A minimum of 12 hours of mentorship over the course of one 8-week MBSR program is required to complete this training module. Trainees should start by contacting their preferred mentor(s), entering into a mentorship agreement, and submitting the $210 administrative fee. Questions or concerns regarding mentorship should be addressed to info@mindfulnessccma.org.
2 /Inquiry Essentials
Inquiry is the practice of asking a question to investigate our experience. It is at the heart of mindfulness-based programs and is often the most difficult skill to learn. This 12-hour training is suitable for any mindfulness facilitator who has facilitated at least one mindfulness-based group.
Step 04 - Get Certified
1 / Advanced Teacher Training Intensive
​This intensive training is focuses on advanced inquiry and embodied presence through teach-backs, coaching, and feedback. It is suitable for any mindfulness facilitator who has facilitated at least three mindfulness-based programs.
2 /Advanced MBSR Mentorship
As with the first round of mentorship, trainees should start by contacting their preferred mentor(s), entering into a mentorship agreement, and submitting the $210 administrative fee. A minimum of 12 hours of mentorship over the course of one 8-week MBSR program is required to complete this training module. Certification will not be obtained until the mentor writes a letter of recommendation on behalf of the trainee. The recommendation letter is expected to make clear reference to the trainee’s abilities in each area of the MBI-TAC. Questions or concerns regarding mentorship should be addressed to info@mindfulnessccma.org.
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