Mindfulness in Counselor Education: Student Perceptions of Exposure and Training

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to explore the perceptions that Master’s level counseling students have regarding their exposure to mindfulness throughout their coursework and training. A mixed-method design was utilized to gather both quantitative and qualitative data using a web-based survey. The survey was sent to students enrolled in CACREP accredited Master’s level counseling programs in the NCACES region. It was hypothesized that there is a lack of mindfulness training available to students in counselor education programs. A majority of participants reported being dissatisfied with the mindfulness training offered in their program. The results also indicated that students seem to be exposed to mindfulness as a self-care strategy, and lack training on how to use mindfulness therapeutically.