Mindfulness for the Development of Therapeutic Skills

Abstract

Introduction: Mindfulness training has demonstrated positive effects on psychological health and is being used in a variety of clinical and therapeutic settings. Materials and Method: This quasi experimental study examined the impact of Mindfulness practice on self-compassion, empathy, self-esteem, stress, anxiety, and Mindfulness awareness of undergraduate psychology students. Results: The results showed a significant increase in self compassion and Mindfulness awareness, as well as a decrease in stress, depression and anxiety after the intervention. Positive correlations were found between Self- Compassion, Self-Esteem, empathy and Mindfulness awareness, and negative  correlations  with  stress,  anxiety  and  depression. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of self- compassion and supports the incorporation of Mindfulness programmes in professional training for the development of essential therapeutic skills, such as self-esteem, empathy and Mindfulness awareness.