Mindfulness-Based Existential Therapy: Connecting Mindfulness and Existential Therapy

Abstract

Mindfulness practice in psychotherapy is mostly associated with cognitive-behavioral approaches. However, there are other approaches that fit well with mindfulness. A distinction can be drawn between meditation and mindfulness, which better establishes mindfulness as a powerful metatechnique that is supportive to many therapeutic models. Mindfulness is well suited for use in existential therapy. Currently, mindfulness is utilized in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and even though ACT is considered a cognitive-behavioral approach, it is compatible in many ways with existential therapy. There are links between mindfulness, existential therapy, and ACT relevant to mindfulness-based existential therapy.