Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP) Course - Starts September 2026

Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP) is an 8-week, empirically-validated program that blends the science of mindfulness with character strengths to enhance well-being, resilience, and meaningful living. Created by Dr. Ryan Niemiec, MBSP is designed to help participants integrate mindfulness and strengths into their daily lives through striking experiential activities, guided exercises, interactive discussions, and practical applications that benefit both the body and mind.

Note: MBSP is viewed as “therapeutic,” which means it is offered as a helpful pathway for individual growth and self-development, often bringing a range of positive benefits to those who practice it. Of course, benefits cannot be guaranteed. Also, MBSP is NOT therapy. While a trained professional credentialed to offer treatment for clinical problems and trauma could apply MBSP as a therapy, the program offered by VIA is not presented or applied here as a therapy program. Anyone experiencing a mental health challenge should contact a licensed/credentialed professional in their region.

Unlike many mindfulness courses that rely heavily on passive meditation, MBSP blends mindfulness meditation with strengths-based practices designed for real-world application. This program and our other character course options move beyond sitting in silence by actively engaging your character strengths to support meaningful, lasting change. Each component of the curriculum is built to reinforce mindful awareness while building practical tools you can apply in your relationships, work, and everyday decisions.

• Eight Weekly Live Sessions – Interactive learning with expert-led guidance.
• Guided Meditations & Strengths Practices – Over 30 practical exercises to integrate into daily life.
• Small Group Discussions & Community Support – Connect with a global group of like-minded learners.
• Recorded Sessions & Course Materials – One-year access to all resources.
• Official Recognition of Completion – Demonstrating your commitment to strengths-based mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you become a better observer in life – to notice the details of the world around you. It means to take more control (i.e., self-regulation) of your attention, and to be curious, open, and accepting along the way. The 24 character strengths are your natural, untapped potential that help you foster resilience, joy, and purpose. When combined, they create a powerful framework for navigating challenges, deepening relationships, and living more authentically. Research studies show that together, these provide a broader range of well-being benefits than either one alone.

Remember: mindfulness without character strengths is directionless; while character strengths without mindfulness are hollow.

No prior experience with character strengths or mindfulness courses is required. MBSP is designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering depth for experienced practitioners.

MBSP is ideal for anyone looking to deepen self-awareness, enhance emotional resilience, and strengthen personal or professional relationships through a practical, strengths-based lens. Whether you're a helping professional supporting clients, a leader navigating high-stress environments, or an individual seeking more alignment between your values and actions, MBSP offers tools you can apply right away. It's especially useful for those in coaching, education, therapy, wellness, or any role where understanding and guiding the body and mind are essential.

You can miss up to two live sessions—recordings will be available on your course page so you can catch up at your convenience. If you anticipate missing more than two, we recommend registering for a future cohort to get the most out of the experience.

The course consists of eight weekly sessions, each lasting approximately two hours, along with a half-day virtual retreat. Participants are encouraged to engage in personal reflection and practice exercises between sessions, typically taking 30-45 minutes per day.

Required book: The Mindfulness and Character Strengths Workbook. This workbook includes individual activities and will serve as a guide as you complete the program. Order from the publisher, Hogrefe, to receive a 20% discount or on Amazon.

Suggested Reading: If you plan to lead others in MBSP or to become certified in MBSP, we recommend purchasing Mindfulness and Character Strengths: A Practitioner’s Guide to MBSP. Order from the publisher Hogrefe to receive a 20% discount or on Amazon.

Technology: This course uses Zoom so please make sure you have a working camera on your computer (so you can be seen), a working microphone on your computer (so you can be heard) and a good connection to the Internet (so you don’t miss out on experiences).

Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases from Amazon.com.

• Attend all eight live sessions (or watch the recordings for any missed sessions).
• Complete all required surveys within the course.
• Recommended to complete the weekly mindfulness and strengths activities/practices.
• Engage in small group discussions and activities.

We understand that plans can change. If you’re unable to attend your originally scheduled course, you can choose one of the following options:

• Within 30 days of purchase: You may request to transfer to a future course at no charge or request a full refund.
• After 30 days: You may request to transfer to a future course for a $20 administrative fee, which helps cover processing and updates to your Learning Management System access.

To request a transfer, email programs@viacharacter.org with your name, email address, and course details.

To get Mindfulness Certified, there are two main steps:

• Complete the 8-Week MBSP Program: Start with the research-backed course that combines mindfulness and character strengths to enhance well-being, resilience, and performance. You’ll engage in daily practices that help you build confidence and deepen your personal understanding.
• Register for MBSP Certification: Make it official by registering for the certification program. You can enroll at any time—before, during, or after completing the 8-week MBSP course. >> Click here to get started with certification.

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