The Method (What is MBT?)

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Q: How is MBT different from CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)?

A: Traditional CBT often focuses on counteracting negative thoughts after they appear (e.g., challenging irrational beliefs). MBT focuses on prevention and management. We train you to adopt a healthy "internal manager" persona—using the same social skills you already use in public—so the toxic thoughts don't escalate in the first place. It is less about arguing with your thoughts and more about changing the tone and process of how you behave internally.

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Q: Is this just about "positive thinking"?

A: No. MBT is about strategic thinking. We do not encourage you to ignore problems or pretend to be happy. We teach you to handle pressure, mistakes, and deadlines with the same professional competence you would offer a team member: firm, clear, and supportive, rather than abusive or catastrophic.

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Q: I’m high-functioning. Will reducing my self-criticism make me lose my edge?

A: This is the most common fear we hear. The answer is no. Research and our clinical experience show that toxic self-criticism actually increases burnout and procrastination (the "freeze" response). By replacing internal abuse with healthy internal management, your efficiency, focus, and resilience actually increase. You don't lose your edge; you lose the weight that is dragging you down.

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The Group Process (What happens in sessions?)

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Q: I am very anxious about being seen or speaking in a group. Can I attend the sessions just to observe?

A: Yes. We understand that for many clients, the pressure to "perform" socially is a major source of their anxiety. We do not believe in forcing you into a stressful situation before you are ready.

You are welcome to join the Zoom sessions with your camera and microphone turned off. You can simply listen and learn from the process without being seen or heard. We find that many members start as observers and only choose to increase their involvement once they feel safe and comfortable enough to do so. There is no pressure to participate until you decide it is helpful for you.

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Q: Do I have to share my trauma or deep personal history?

A: No. MBT focuses on your stress response, not the specific events of your past. We analyse your current "Reactive Strategy" (how you treat yourself when stressed). You can participate fully without ever disclosing the details of your trauma or personal circumstances.

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Q: Why is this done in a group? I’m nervous about sharing with strangers.

A: We use the group for a specific clinical reason: Objectivity. It is very hard to see your own "Double Standard," but it is easy to see it in others. When you hear another member describe their harsh self-talk, you will instantly recognise how unfair it is. This realisation helps you break the cycle in your own mind much faster than individual therapy alone.

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Q: What if I just want to listen?

A: You are welcome to join and observe, but active participation is encouraged to get the full benefit. However, we respect your pace. You will never be forced to speak if you are uncomfortable.

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Q: Is the environment safe?

A: Absolutely. We have a zero-tolerance policy for toxic behaviour directed at others. The group is strictly moderated to ensure it remains a supportive, professional space for learning and growth.

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Logistics & Results

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Q: How long does the program last?

A: The group is ongoing. There is no fixed "course" you can fall behind on. You attend as often as you wish, for as long as you find it useful. Some members attend for a few months to learn the tools; others stay longer to practice maintaining them during life's challenges.

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Q: How do I know when I’m "better"?

A: We aim for a specific clinical standard: a Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) score of >80. Practically, this means anxiety is a temporary reaction to real stress, not a constant state, and you can function effectively at work and in relationships without paying a heavy internal price.

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Q: Can I do this alongside medication or individual therapy?

A: Yes. MBT complements other treatments well. It provides a practical, day-to-day framework for managing your mental state that works in harmony with medication or one-on-one counselling.

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Q: Who is this NOT suitable for?

A: To ensure the safety and focus of the group, this program is not suitable for individuals currently struggling with acute substance dependence, psychosis, or acute suicidality. These conditions require immediate, specialised stabilisation before engaging in this type of reflective work.