Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program Improving Emotional Regulation, Burnout, and Stress in Healthcare Professionals

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Volume 26 Num. 2

Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program Improving Emotional Regulation, Burnout, and Stress in Healthcare Professionals

Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026 - Pages 262-271

Authors:

Soraya Otero Cuesta , Elena García Barrios , Estrella Fernández Rodríguez

msoraya.otero@scsalud.es

Abstract:

To evaluate the effectiveness of an-8-week, 30-hour Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) training program in improving mindfulness, reducing perceived stress, and reducing burnout-related outcomes among healthcare professionals. A prospective within-subject study with pre-intervention and 12-week post-intervention assessments. Fifty-one healthcare professionals completed the MBCT program. Participants completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and the Perceived Stress Scale. Course satisfaction, perceived usefulness, and self-reported home practice were also recorded. Participants rated the course highly in terms of both personal and professional utility, with high levels of attendance. Significant improvements were observed in mindfulness facets (Observing, Describing, Non-judging, and Non-reactivity) and in the total FFMQ score at follow-up. Emotional exhaustion and perceived stress decreased significantly. Depersonalization decreased and personal accomplishment increased, although these changes did not reach statistical significance. Overall course evaluation was associated with greater improvements in mindfulness and stress-related outcomes, whereas home practice adherence at follow-up was not significantly associated with outcome changes. MBCT appears to be a feasible and well-accepted intervention to improve mindfulness and reduce perceived stress and emotional exhaustion among healthcare professionals. Standardized MBCT training may be considered for integration into continuing professional education programs.

How to cite this paper:
Otero Cuesta S, García Barrios E, & Fernández Rodríguez E (2026). Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program Improving Emotional Regulation, Burnout, and Stress in Healthcare Professional. International Journal of Psychology & Psychological Therapy, 26, 2, 261-271

Key words:

mindfulness, healthcare professionals, burnout, perceived stress, continuing education, emotional regulation

Full Article

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International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy

Volume 26 Num. 2 - June 2026