International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy
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Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026

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A multiple-baseline design evaluation of the feasibility of a brief RNT-focused ACT intervention in health professionals experiencing burnout

Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026 - Pages 177-192

Authors:

Andrea B. Criollo , Paola A. Bernal González , Paula Odriozola González, , Francisco J. Ruiz

Abstract:

Repetitive negative thinking (RNT) has been identified as a transdiagnostic process that may sustain burnout symptoms in healthcare professionals. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a brief, three-session Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) protocol focused on RNT, delivered individually via videoconference, in healthcare professionals experiencing burnout. A randomized nonconcurrent multiple-baseline single-case experimental design across participants was employed, with baseline durations randomly assigned and a four-week follow-up phase. Three female healthcare professionals (aged 22-26 years) completed the intervention. Burnout symptoms, RNT, work-related psychological flexibility, valued actions, and emotional symptoms were assessed through daily ecological momentary measures and weekly self-report instruments, including the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey, the Perseverative Thinking Questionnaire, and the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21. Data were analyzed through visual inspection, the Tau-U nonparametric statistic, and a design-comparable standardized mean difference. Daily and weekly assessments showed slight discrepancies in some variables, particularly for one participant; however, clinically relevant improvements were observed across all participants, including reductions in emotional exhaustion, cynicism, RNT, and emotional distress. Effect sizes were large for burnout symptoms, RNT, and emotional symptoms. These findings provide preliminary evidence for the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of a brief RNT-focused ACT protocol in reducing burnout-related symptoms among healthcare professionals.

How to cite this paper:
Criollo AB, Bernal González PA, Odriozola González P, & Ruiz FJ (2026). A multiple-baseline design evaluation of the feasibility of a brief RNT-focused ACT intervention in health professionals experiencing burnout. International Journal of Psychology & Psychological Therapy, 26, 2, 177-192

Key words:

burnout, ACT, repetitive negative thinking, health professionals, psychological flexibility

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