Ryan M. Niemiec, Psy.D. is a leading figure in the education, research, and practice of character strengths that are found in all human beings. He is creator of Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP), an evidence-based program that integrates the science and practice of mindfulness and character strengths. It is the first, and one of the only mindfulness programs in the world to offer an alternative to the deficit-based approach, by targeting what’s best in people rather than targeting problems.

Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP)
Select the course that fits your schedule. Full list of times/dates below.
2025 Course Offerings
May 7 - June 25, 2025
Wednesdays, 3:00 AM - 5:00 AM Eastern/8:00 AM - 10:00 AM BST
Retreat: Friday, June 13, 3:00 AM - 8:00 AM Eastern/8:00 AM- 1:00 PM BST
Led by Dr. Roger Bretherton
September 9 - October 28, 2025
Tuesdays, 12:00PM - 2:00PM Eastern
Retreat: Friday, October 17, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Eastern
Led by Dr. Ryan Niemiec
Live courses, of 8 weekly sessions including 1 half-day virtual retreat.
2025 Course Facilitators



A Science-Backed, Expert-Guided 8-Week Path to Greater Well-Being
Designed for anyone seeking personal growth, Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP) combines mindfulness and character strengths to help you deepen self-awareness, build resilience, and strengthen personal and professional relationships.
91% of participants reported increased overall well-being
87% improved their ability to manage problems
9 out of 10 would recommend MBSP to a friend or colleague

What is Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP)?
Developed by Dr. Ryan Niemiec and launched in 2014, VIA’s Mindfulness-Based Strengths Program (MBSP) was the first globally available program to integrate mindfulness and character strengths.
Unlike traditional mindfulness programs that focus primarily on meditation, MBSP integrates mindfulness into everyday moments, making it immediately practical and personally meaningful. More than just science-backed or evidence-based, MBSP is an empirically validated program — supported by rigorous research demonstrating its benefits. Participants often experience reduced stress, greater happiness, and stronger relationships as they apply mindfulness and character strengths in daily life. Through the live, interactive 8-week program, you’ll build a powerful well-being toolkit to cultivate more joy, balance, and success in your daily life. MBSP is more than a course — it’s a transformative journey that empowers you to navigate life with a strengths-based perspective.
Want to become Mindfulness Certified and teach MBSP?
Join the global network of VIA Certified MBSP Practitioners and help others experience the power of mindfulness and character strengths.
Gain the expertise to confidently lead MBSP sessions.
Learn from top experts in a research-backed, strengths-based approach.
Expand your impact by bringing MBSP to individuals, teams, and organizations.
Why Choose Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice? Key Program Benefits
Live & Interactive Learning Engage in expert-led weekly sessions with a global community.
The Best Mindfulness & Strengths Practice 30+ practical exercises, meditations, and reflection activities.
Pesonalized Strengths Insights Whether you are new to character strengths or are intermediate/advanced in your knowledge, you will gain deep personal and professional insights into strengths application and use.
Supportive Group ExperienceLearn from and connect with like-minded learners through small group breakout experiences.
Proven Tools for Well-Being Learn evidence-based strategies to build resilience, reduce stress, and enhance personal growth.
Professional Development Credits & an Official Recognition of Completion Earn 22 Resource Development ICF CCEU hours to advance your career and receive an official recognition of completion documenting and appreciating your growth in strengths-based mindfulness.
Comprehensive Course Access Enjoy ongoing learning with exclusive one-year access to all resources, including session recordings.
Real-World Application Experience immediate benefits as you seamlessly integrate mindfulness and strengths-based practices into your daily life.
Course Faculty


Danielle Casioppo is a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, a certified yoga teacher, and meditation instructor. She brings over 10 years of experience creating and delivering transformational programs that enrich the well-being of participants. Danielle is one of 15 international charter certified Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP) instructors and a proud faculty member with the VIA Institute on Character. She's a certified instructor of Mental Health First Aid and she is the Education Specialist and Coordinator with Being Well at Yale University.

Dr Roger Bretherton is Programme Director for the Professional Diploma in Positive Health at the Centre for Positive Health Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland. He is a UK accredited Clinical Psychologist, an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
He is the director of Character Lab Lincoln, which conducts training, consultancy and research on character strengths interventions. His research team is currently investigating the benefits of humility in leaders, the role of mindfulness in character development, a strengths-based approach to pro-environmental behaviours, the role of wisdom in business leadership, and character strengths in entrepreneurs. He has authored two books, and dozens of articles and book chapters, and is a reviewer for several leading academic journals in applied psychology. He delivers coaching, training and keynotes across a broad range of public and private sector organisations.
The MBSP program provided a lifelong learning experience I am grateful for. Each class is built upon the previous one to provide a well-rounded experience. The conversations were so fruitful. There were many learning opportunities that I will continue to leverage daily.

- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice (MBSP)?
- What’s included in the MBSP Course?
- How do strengths and mindfulness give optimal results?
- Is prior knowledge or training on character strengths and/or mindfulness required?
- Do I need to attend all sessions live?
- How much time is required to complete the course?
- What materials and technology do I need for the MBSP course?
- What are the requirements to receive a Recognition of Completion?
- What’s required to get certified to get Mindfulness Certified?