Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program

The virtual Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program (MBSR) at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center was developed to teach participants how to reduce stress by systematically and intentionally cultivating mindfulness. Mindfulness is best defined as nonjudgmental, moment to moment awareness. Two decades of published research in this relatively new field within behavioral medicine indicate that the majority of people who complete the program report:

  • lasting decreases in physical and psychological symptoms
  • an increased ability to relax
  • reduction in pain levels and an enhanced ability to cope with chronic pain
  • greater energy and enthusiasm for life
  • improved self esteem
  • an ability to cope more effectively with both short and long-term stressful situations

Individuals with one or more of the following concerns may benefit from participation in the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program:

  • Workplace, family and financial stress
  • Anxiety and panic
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Back pain
  • Excessive smoking
  • Overuse of alcohol
  • Compulsive eating
  • Gastrointestinal distress

Key Program Elements

Susan Evans, Ph.D., teaches the MBSR program at Weill Cornell Medicine Psychiatry.  Dr. Evans is a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry who received MBSR training at the Center for Mindfulness at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and who has been leading MBSR groups at NewYork Presbyterian Hospital since 2000.

The program consists of 8 weekly classes, 2 hours in duration, takes place virtually over Zoom, and is led by an expert clinical psychologist. This highly participatory practical course includes

  • Guided instruction in mindfulness meditation practices
  • Gentle stretching and mindful yoga
  • Group dialogue designed to enhance developmental skills
  • Cognitive and behavioral strategies to reduce stress
  • Daily home assignments
  • Two audio cassettes or CDs and a workbook

Fees and Information

The MBSR program cost is $500, and includes all materials. 
For further information, please call (212) 821-0775. 

Susan Evans, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry

For further Information

Call Dean Haglin at 212-821-0775.

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Dr. Susan Evan's program was featured in a recent edition of NewYork-Presbyterian's Advances in Psychiatry in an aricle entitled: "Applying Mindfulness Approaches to Stress Reduction":

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