Effectiveness of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) vs. the Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) Programs in Clinical and Health Psychologist Trainees

Objectives This study compares the effectiveness of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC) programs in improving mindfulness and self-compassion skills among clinical and health psychology trainees, and analyzes their effects on anxiety and depression. Methods A total of 88 participants were allocated to three conditions: MBSR training ( n = 26), MSC training ( n = 34), and control group ( n = 28). Their levels of mindfulness, self-compassion, anxiety, and depression were measured at pre- and post-intervention. Results Compared to the control group, participants in the MBSR training showed significant improvements in mindfulness and reductions in anxiety and depression from pre to post. Participants in the MSC training, compared to the control group, reported significant increases in mindfulness and self-compassion. We observed that anxiety levels remained stable in the MSC group, while participants in the control group reported an increase in their scores over time. The reduction in depression scores observed among MSC participants did not differ, however, from that observed among members of the control group. Mindfulness, self-compassion, and anxiety scores presented similar trajectories in MBSR and MSC groups, while the MBSR group demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in depression levels compared to the MSC group. Conclusions Incorporating these programs into the psychologists’ training should be considered, as desirable skills such as mindfulness and self-compassion are enhanced. MBSR and MSC could contribute to prevent mental health problems in this population.