The mindfulness practice of clinicians: A systematic review

Abstract

Mindfulness interventions and practice have seen a recent explosion of interest among researchers and practitioners. The present study examines the research literature on the role of mindfulness in the practice of psychotherapists, specifically in the areas of stress management for clinicians, management of countertransference, development of the therapeutic alliance and attunement, development of empathy and therapeutic presence, and client outcomes. Both qualitative and quantitative research articles published over the past 10 years have been included and meta-analytic techniques utilized where possible. Examination of these data shows that mindfulness is associated with better ability to manage stress among clinicians, better therapeutic alliance, increased empathy, and better client outcomes. These data raise important theoretical and practical considerations, including questions about what makes mindfulness effective, issues regarding the use of techniques derived from the Buddhist tradition outside of their cultural and ethical contexts, and others. Implications and ideas for further research are discussed.