Mentalization-based Therapy London

Do you confuse even yourself? 

Are you often unsure of what you actually believe, feel, or think? Is it uncomfortable around other people, assuming they don’t like you, or think the worst of you? 

What is mentalization-based therapy? 

The art of mentalization involves thinking about thinking. In case you struggle with mentalizing, you won’t understand your thoughts and feelings most of the time, and may make impulsive decisions that upset others. Feeling lonely and unhappy can result from making assumptions about what others think. 

As a result of mentalization-based therapy, you learn to think clearly and correctly about yourself and others, so that you can make better choices and improve your relationships. 

Suitable for all ages, including children, it can be done individually, in a group, or as a family.

 Implications

Attachment theory and self-development are affected by mentalization. Those with disorganized attachment styles (such as those who have been physically, psychologically, or sexually abused) may have difficulty developing their mental skills. The strength of an individual’s mentalizing capacity is partly determined by their attachment history. Individuals who are secure-attached tend to have had a primary caregiver with more complex and sophisticated mental abilities. Consequently, these children are more capable of representing the mental states of themselves and others. Early childhood exposure to mentalization can protect the individual from psychosocial adversity. As a result of early exposure to real parental mentalization, children develop mentalizing abilities of their own. It has also been suggested that genuine parental mentalization improves a child’s learning; a child feels contingently responded to when they feel they are being viewed as intentional agents, which promotes epistemic trust and triggers natural pedagogy, thereby improving the quality of their learning. There is still a need for more empirical evidence to support this theory.

How is MBT therapy different than other talk therapies?

You need to understand how your mind works in order to make sense of it.

The focus of MBT therapy is on how you think about yourself and others rather than on previous life experiences or trying to gain insight into yourself. 

It’s present based.

If it is necessary to understand your here and now, you will discuss your past experiences. 

Therapy is a partnership between you and your therapist.

On the one hand, it is more equal than the traditional ‘client and patient’ model, on the other hand, it does not use the therapy relationship as a tool for understanding other relationships.

Mentalization and borderline personality disorder 

Mentalization-based treatment was originally developed to help clients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). There is evidence that it can lower anxiety and depression in sufferers, as well as help them with interpersonal issues and suicidal behavior. 

But it’s also thought helpful for:

• anger issues 
• eating disorders 
• attachment disorders 
• depression 
• other personality disorders
• trauma
• trust issues 
• relationship problems 
• self-harm 
• substance abuse. 

What is an MBT session like?

During your first few sessions, we will assess what brought you to therapy. Can you tell me about your current difficulties? What keeps them triggered, and how did they originate? 

From there, your sessions will focus on helping you deal with your current struggles and relationships. Do you have any thoughts or feelings that you would like to share with me? Can you tell if your thoughts are accurate or if they are assumptions? Have you been influenced by those thoughts or caused conflict as a result of them? Can you imagine what those around you might be thinking?

The goals of mentalization-based treatment

As with all therapies, the goal is to help you feel better equipped to navigate your life. The following benefits can also be gained from working with an MBT psychotherapist: 

• Become more in control of your emotions and behaviors
• No matter what your feelings are, make good decisions
• Get better at intimacy and improving your relationships 
• Feel more confident about yourself and others   
• Find out what your life goals are and how to reach them.

MBT Therapists at Expert Therapy London

In order to make the process of starting therapy easier, we only provide counselling psychologists who have been trained at the best institutions and have years of experience.

Time to feel liked by yourself and others?

Are you ready to try mentalization-based therapy for BPD, relationship problems, or another issue? Make an appointment with an MBT therapist in London or online today. Our online booking form is also available for you to register your interest.  

Further reading 

• Borderline Personality Disorder – What Therapies Work?
• Is Emotional Intensity Ruining Your Relationships?
• Abandonment Issues – Is This Your Problem?
• Compassion for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Healthy Relationships – Is It One? 

 Frequently asked questions

What is mentalization-based therapy (MBT)?

In MBT, the patient learns how to examine their own thought processes so they can improve them. A person with personality disorders or depression may benefit from it.

Typically, how much does MBT cost in London?

The cost of MBT in London is £280 for an hour-long session each week for 12 to 18 months.

Is MBT available on the NHS?

The NHS offers MBT treatment, but waiting lists can be lengthy, so many patients opt for private treatment.

Does Expert Therapy offer MBT in London?

At its London location, Expert Therapy offers mentalization-based therapy. Several practitioners can provide this service, so you’ll be able to find the right one for you.