Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy: Does it Work? How Does it Work?
Kuyken, Willem
Mood Disorders Centre, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
While we know that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) works, do we know how it works? Careful clinical observation and theoretical modelling informed the development of MBCT (Segal, Williams, & Teasdale, 2002). At least four randomised controlled trials suggest MBCT can help people with a history of recurrent depression stay well (Kuyken et al., 2008; Ma & Teasdale, 2004; Segal et al., 2010; Teasdale et al., 2000). To help us understand how MBCT works, this presentation threads together theory, clinical observation, experiential understanding and research. The first half of the keynote overviews the key pathways by which we suppose MBCT works. This will include coming to see thoughts and feelings differently, turning towards the difficult with openness, equinamity and care and coming to see the body as a refuge. The second half of the presentation will ask, “how can we examine this question empirically?” and will overview qualitative research, process-outcome research, experimental studies and dismantling studies. These threads will be drawn together to draw some preliminary conclusions about how MBCT works. A clearer understanding of MBCT’s key mechanisms of change can enhance our effectiveness as therapists and could drive clinical innovations. Some of these implications will be drawn out, with reference to case illustrations. References Segal ZV, Williams JMG, Teasdale JD. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression: A new approach to preventing relapse. New York: Guilford Press.; 2002.