Meditation, Mindfulness, and Acceptance
Simon B. Goldberg, Christopher Anders, Shannon L. Stuart-Maver, D. Martin Kivlighan
Psychotherapy Skills and Methods That Work September 28, 2023 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780197611012.003.0020 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Systematic review Qualitative Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Meditation |
| Key findings | Only three studies have empirically examined the integration of meditation, mindfulness, and acceptance methods into individual psychotherapy. The one experimental study found no evidence that including mindfulness meditation improved outcomes beyond other active interventions, while two qualitative studies provided preliminary evidence that patients may find these methods helpful. |
Abstract
Abstract Meditation, mindfulness, and acceptance (MMA) methods have gained popularity among psychotherapists and the public. This chapter examines how these methods may be integrated into individual psychotherapy and how their effects may be measured and assessed. A systematic review of the literature yielded only three studies examining this integration empirically. The one experimental study provided no evidence that including mindfulness meditation improved outcomes beyond other active interventions. Two qualitative studies provided preliminary evidence that patients may find MMA methods helpful. This chapter highlights future directions for work in this area, including clarifying optimal dosage and timing, identifying patient characteristics associated with beneficial or adverse effects, and investigating cultural adaptations. It concludes by highlighting training recommendations and therapeutic practices.