Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention: A Compassionate Path Through Recovery
Mindfulness-Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) is an eight-week program that combines mindfulness practice with evidence-based relapse prevention skills. Developed at the University of Washington by Drs. Sarah Bowen, Neharika Chawla, and the late G. Alan Marlatt, MBRP teaches people in recovery to meet cravings, triggers, and difficult emotions with steadiness rather than reactivity. In this piece, Marsha J. Gehl, CMT-P, walks through what MBRP actually is, the research behind it, the eight-week curriculum, the core practices like urge surfing and the SOBER breathing space, who it is for, and how to find a qualified facilitator. Written for the man in recovery, the family member trying to understand, and the clinician looking for a thoughtful overview of one of the most evidence-supported contemplative approaches in addiction care.