Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy: Theory and Practice

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) combines cognitive-behavioral therapy with mindfulness-based stress reduction in an 8-session group program. Originally developed to prevent relapse in people with recurrent depression, it has been applied to other psychiatric conditions. MBCT encourages patients to relate differently to thoughts and feelings rather than changing them. Preliminary neuroimaging studies suggest mindfulness improves emotional regulation by enhancing cortical control of limbic circuits and attention. Findings from several randomized controlled trials indicate MBCT is useful for relapse prevention in recurrent depression, with efficacy similar to maintenance antidepressants. Preliminary studies also show promise for active depression, including treatment-resistant cases, and pilot studies have evaluated MBCT in bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioural therapy with mindfulness-based stress reduction into an 8-session group program. Initially conceived as an intervention for relapse prevention in people with recurrent depression, it has since been applied to various psychiatric conditions. Our paper aims to briefly describe MBCT and its putative mechanisms of action, and to review the current findings about the use of MBCT in people with mood and anxiety disorders. The therapeutic stance of MBCT focuses on encouraging patients to adopt a new way of being and relating to their thoughts and feelings, while placing little emphasis on altering or challenging specific cognitions. Preliminary functional neuroimaging studies are consistent with an account of mindfulness improving emotional regulation by enhancing cortical regulation of limbic circuits and attentional control. Research findings from several randomized controlled trials suggest that MBCT is a useful intervention for relapse prevention in patients with recurrent depression, with efficacy that may be similar to maintenance antidepressants. Preliminary studies indicate MBCT also shows promise in the treatment of active depression, including treatment-resistant depression. Pilot studies have also evaluated MBCT in bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. Patient and clinician resources for further information on mindfulness and MBCT are provided.