Director
Dr Sarah Francis PhD., Grad Dip. MiCBT., MAPS.
Director of Melborune Mindfulness Institute
Sarah is a registered psychologist trained and experienced in mindfulness theory and practice. Sarah has worked as a teacher, human resources manager, general manager of learning and development, business consultant and is the author of “Workplace Communication: A Teacher’s Guide” (Pitman, 1993) and co-author of “The Clinical Handbook of Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behavior Therapy”, Cayoun, Francis and Shires, Wiley, 2018.
Sarah has trained in a variety of mindfulness-based approaches and prefers to work with MiCBT’s integration of traditional mindfulness skills with contemporary cognitive and behaviour therapies. She regularly delivers the training in MiCBT for professionals as part of the MiCBT Institute. Sarah has conducted research into the measurement of mindfulness and on the effectiveness of MiCBT in group format with a range of mental health conditions (Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2022)
Sarah uses MiCBT in her therapy with individuals as well as regularly conducting group MiCBT training programs for depression, anxiety and stress, and well-being. Sarah also conducts mindfulness training and supervision for health professionals, post-graduate students and corporate groups. Sarah is the convenor of a peer supervision group (Melbourne MiCBT Interest and Research Group). Having attended many Buddhist courses, teachings and retreats for over 25 years, Sarah is skilled in integrating key aspects of eastern and western psychology.
Associates
Stephanie Chu
Stephanie is a registered psychologist with 12-years experience in private practice. Stephanie recently joined the Mindfulness Institute and brings her experience working with culturally diverse clients. She conducts therapy using English, French and Creole. Her focus using MiCBT has proven beneficial for adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Stephanie has also facilitated a support group called Vision of Hope which helps families to understand and manage the effects of drugs and alcohol on their loved ones. Stephanie has many years of experienced working with Workcover, TAC, and Victim of Crime patients.
Boyd Cowley M.A. Psych. MAPS., Grad. Dip. In MiCBT
Boyd is a registered psychologist with many years experience working at schools and in private practice. At the Mindfulness Institute, Boyd works with all age groups and specialises in providing therapy for children, adolescents and parents, covering a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, chronic pain, behavioural difficulties, self-harm and bullying. In addition, he is a facilitator at Melbourne Insight Meditation.