Enhancing Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy with a Virtual Mindfulness Coach

Abstract

Mindfulness meditation has recently become a core element of a number of psychotherapeutic approaches, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance Commitment Therapy. In spite of strong evidence regarding the benefits of mindfulness meditation, access to training programs remains limited. This chapter describes a novel way of providing mindfulness training, via a synthetic virtual character: the Virtual Mindfulness Coach. The virtual coach delivers a 4-week training program in mindfulness meditation and customizes follow-up coaching, to help clients establish a regular mindfulness practice. Several scenarios are described illustrating how the virtual coach can be incorporated into psychotherapy to enhance treatment.