Abstract
Background: Mindfulness-integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (MiCBT) is a mindfulness-based intervention designed to achieve transdiagnostic effects via interoceptive desensitisation. Although the first MiCBT manual was published over a decade ago, its empirical evidence base has not previously been systematically reviewed. This scoping review summarises existing MiCBT research, evaluates its effectiveness across outcomes and contexts, and identifies priority areas for future investigation.
Methods: A comprehensive search of six databases (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus) and the grey literature was undertaken to identify studies comparing MiCBT with a control condition. Study selection, data extraction, and analysis followed the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and were reported in line with the PRISMA-ScR framework.
Results: Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. Synthesis of findings indicates that MiCBT is an effective treatment across a broad range of psychological and physical conditions, including culturally diverse and co-morbid populations. Multiple randomised controlled trials demonstrated benefits for depression, anxiety, and related outcomes in participants with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, and other health conditions.
Conclusion: Current evidence suggests that interoceptive desensitisation through MiCBT is effective across diverse outcomes, cultural contexts, and co-morbidities, and may offer a valuable alternative to existing psychotherapy modalities—particularly where clients prefer this approach or where outcomes may respond better to this process of change. Future research should incorporate gold-standard comparators, systematically assess adverse effects, and extend investigations to broader populations.
Mindfulness (2025), Volume 16
Title: Mindfulness-Integrated Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: a Scoping Review of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Sascha Boldt, Alice Shires, Jill Beattie
ISSN: 1868-8527 (print) · 1868-8535 (online)
DOI: 10.1007/s12671-025-02715-4
Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-025-02715-4