Continuing Education Programs for Health Practitioners
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for
Personal and Professional Wellness
Offered by: Jefferson College of Graduate Studies
Credits: 3
Instructors: Diane Reibel, PhD, diane.reibel@jefferson.edu; Donald McCown, MA, MS, don.mccown@jefferson.edu
Course Description
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is one of the seminal interventions driving the growth of applications of mindfulness and other contemplative disciplines for the promotion of physical and psychological wellness. Targeted to both graduate and undergraduate students, this course provides a didactic overview of stress physiology, the influence of stress on disease processes, and the substantial evidence base research that has documented the numerous health benefits of MBSR and other mindfulness-based interventions. The course also offers an opportunity to directly experience MBSR through participation in an 8-week foundational MBSR course, which includes practicing formal mindfulness techniques and having the option of a full-day mindfulness retreat. The total experience is intended to promote personal and professional wellness, and to create a foundation for further exploration of mindfulness-based interventions for those interested in integrating mindfulness into their professional practice.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students (at levels appropriate to their undergraduate or graduate standings) will be able to:
- Explain the essentials of stress physiology and the contributions of stress to disease states
- Identify contemporary applications of mindfulness and related contemplative practices in various professional settings, including healthcare and mental healthcare, education, business, and community organizations
- Access and critique the scientific research on the physical and psychological benefits of mindfulness in a range of populations
- Employ mindfulness practices to enhance their own personal and professional wellness
- (Graduate students) Design a projected workshop or course that includes mindfulness components for a population of choice
- (Undergraduate students) Explain in detail the use of a contemporary mindfulness-based or mindfulness-informed intervention.
- Present information about mindfulness to an audience of peers and professionals with confidence and fluency
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course.
Required Texts
- Kabat-Zinn, J. (1990). Full catastrophe living. New York: Dell Publishing.
- Sapolsky, R. (2004). Why zebras don’t get ulcers: A guide to stress, stress related diseases, and coping (fourth edition). New York: Henry Holt and Company.
- Package of handouts developed by faculty and provided as required.
Recommended Texts (for enrichment)
- Baer, R. (Ed.). (2006). Mindfulness-based treatment approaches: A clinician's guide to evidence base and applications. Boston: Elsevier Academic Press.
Types of Learning Activities
Methods include: lecture, small group discussion, large group discussion, experiential activities, formal and informal mindfulness practices, optional intensive mindfulness practice session, reading, writing, research, student presentations, self reflection.
Compliance with College/University Policies
This course will adhere to the Code of Conduct and Academic Policies and Procedures (Grading System, Academic Integrity, Confidentiality of Student Records, Course Drop/Add, Course Withdrawal, Disability Accommodations, Grade Appeal Protocol, Registration, etc.) as contained in the Jefferson College of Health Professions 2006-2007 Student Handbook and Academic Planner. Students not in possession of the Handbook may secure a copy from the Department of General Studies or the Office of Student Affairs.
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