Mindfulness Intervention For Child Abuse Survivors (MICAS)

The specific aims of the project are:

• To determine whether Mindfulness- Based Stress Reduction program is associated with a reduction in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress.
• To assess indications of efficacy, assess feasibility of enrollment and compliance among this patient population
• Provide pilot data that can be used to apply for larger grants to more fully develop this approach

Inclusion criteria

• A history of child abuse, as attested by the potential participant
• Currently in therapy with a licensed psychotherapist (psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker).
• Plans to remain in therapy with a licensed psychotherapist (psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker) for the duration of the study.
• Recommendation made by the potential participant's licensed psychotherapist (psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker) the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program would be an appropriate adjunct therapy for his or her client.
• Score of 0.50 or higher on the General Severity Index of the Brief Symptom Inventory, indicating psychological distress above the normal population.
• Aged 21 or above.
• Ability to read and write English.
• Able to attend 10 courses and assessment visits over a 6-week period.
• Willing to practice skills for 20-30 minutes per day 6 days a week, during the course.

Exclusion criteria

• Major psychiatric illness (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, dissociative identity disorder, or others).
• Active alcoholism or drug dependency.
• Any psychological or physical illness the investigator feels would prohibit full participation in the course.
• Currently enrolled in another clinical trial.