Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy – Opportunities and Limits of the Third Generation of Behavior Therapy

Abstract

Aim: The paper presents important approaches of mindfulness-based psychotherapy and introduces the concept of the “third wave” of behavior therapy. Content: Approaches that can be counted as “third wave” (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Mindfulness- Based Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy) as well as current results pertaining to the efficacy of these approaches are presented. Opportunities and limitations of mindfulness-based approaches are discussed. Conclusions: Mindfulness-based interventions open up interesting perspectives for psychotherapy in general and for the treatment of substance use disorders. Possible dangers in introducing these methods into psychotherapy should be taken into account.