Mindfulness-Based Counseling Model Paper

The following counseling model paper will address Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBT). MBT can be operationally defined as “paying attention to the present moment, with intention, with an attitude of openness, nonjudgment, and acceptance” (Smith, 2017). The paper will include a theoretical overview, the major skills used in this model, and a review of the major research on MBT. Additionally, I will explore limitations of MBT. Finally, I will begin the paper by articulating the many reasons why I have chosen to explore MBT.

WHY MINDFULNESS-BASED THERAPY? First, I have chosen this model because I have cultivated my own mindfulness practice into everyday life and greatly enjoy it. By practicing mindfulness, I have experienced benefits such as

Mindfulness can be defined as, “paying attention to the present moment, with intention, with an attitude of openness, nonjudgment, and acceptance” (Smith, 2017). The idea of mindfulness is to move a person from suffering into freedom (Greason, 2011). Mindfulness can be understood through the concept of the first and second arrow. The first arrow can be thought of as painful emotions which we all can expect to experience when going through life. Heartache, anger, sadness, disappointment, and fear can all be thought of as first arrow emotions, these are normal to experience. These first arrow emotions can be painful, but it’s the second arrow emotions that are even more painful and the cause of our suffering. Guilt, shame, greed, hatred, bitterness, and jealousy are all considered second arrow emotions, arising when we ruminate over our first arrow emotions. The idea of mindfulness is to learn to observe the first arrow, without being hooked and dragged by the second arrow. Overall, by cultivating awareness of how one’s mind creates unnecessary misery, and increasing one’s capacity to live in the present and experience the joyful moments, mindfulness practice helps to transform one’s way of life for the

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