What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)? Why has it become the most widely recommended and used of psychological therapies? How can you integrate it into an existing therapeutic practice or just use it to enable you yourself to gain a better understanding of your ways of seeing and being in the world?
This is a 10-week introduction to the theory and practice of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which assumes no previous knowledge or experience. Three integrated strands run through the programme: understanding theory, developing skills and improving self-awareness.
The theory will examine CBT's key theoretical assumptions across its varied evolution and development as well as considering the implications such ideas may have for a therapeutic or self-development practice. The course will also briefly consider transcultural CBT and the importance of anti-discriminatory practice.
Developing Skills will examine CBT's core practical aims, objectives and practices specifically providing a grounding in key CBT interventions such as Cognitive Restructuring, Behavioural Activation and Exposure Therapy. Students will be encouraged to use their own experience, but will not be expected to discuss painful personal issues.
Through the theory and the skills practice, students will be encouraged to reflect on their personal learning in order to gain self-awareness.
This course will enable participants to bring key CBT theory and skills to bear in either their clinical practice or general self-development. It provides a foundation rather than comprehensive training in CBT, as well as offering an opportunity for students to discover whether or not they want to progress to more advanced CBT training.