The study will employ a mixed-methods approach to data collection in order to explore the impact of mindfulness training on counsellor burnout and empathy. Both quantitative and qualitative data will be gathered to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of the intervention and participants’ lived experiences.
Participation will be entirely voluntary. Inclusion criteria require participants to be trainee counsellors or practicing counsellors with a minimum of one year of experience.
Quantitative data will be collected using two validated self-report measures administered at two time points: prior to the mindfulness intervention (pre-intervention) and following its completion (post-intervention). Burnout levels will be assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), which measures emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and personal accomplishment. Empathy will be measured using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI), which assesses both cognitive and emotional components of empathy.
Ethical considerations will be central to the data collection process. All data will be stored securely in accordance with data protection regulations.
This multi-method data collection approach is intended to provide both measurable outcomes and rich qualitative insight, enabling a nuanced exploration of how mindfulness training may influence counsellor wellbeing and empathic capacity.
To take part or for more information, please see here.