Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for Children (MBCT-C): A Clinical Approach for Teaching Mindfulness to Children
Randye J Semple, Laila A. Madni
Neuromethods 2026 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-5134-6_13 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Children ages 8–13 |
| Intervention | Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for children (MBCT-C) |
| Topics | Anxiety Meditation |
| Keywords | Experiential learning Cognition Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy Focus group Cognitive restructuring Psychotherapist Clinical psychology Cognitive reframing Developmental psychology Clinical practice |
| Key points | Describes MBCT-C as a downward and sideways adaptation of adult MBCT, shifting focus from depressive relapse to managing stress and anxiety disorders in children. |
Abstract
AbstractMindfulness-based cognitive therapy for children (MBCT-C) is a downward and sideways adaptation of the adult mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) program. Downward from adults to children ages 8–13 years and sideways from focus as a treatment for depressive relapse to focus on managing stress and anxiety disorders. Both are structured group psychotherapies that have similar aims and goals. MBCT-C engages children in short, experiential group activities and offers a variety of interactive, age-appropriate activities that explore mindfulness using child-friendly language.