Exploration of Mindfulness in Mindfulness-based Therapy: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Through an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) research design, this dissertation explores the experience of psychotherapists who engage in mindfulness-based psychotherapeutic approaches. The principal research question is, “How does mindfulness appear in the professional setting as a psychotherapeutic modality?” This research identifies and explores common themes that arise for participants. The common themes were: (1) Formal and informal mindfulness training is valued, (2) formal and informal mindfulness practice is valued, (3) therapist benefits, (4) client benefits, (5) mindfulness as an intuitive process that helps determine the appropriateness of mindfulness in therapy, (6) significant impact on the therapeutic alliance due to mindfulness, and (7) similarities in the motivating factors for therapists to use mindfulness in general and in therapy. Furthermore, this research explores how mindfulness can benefit therapists and therapeutic frameworks.