Cognitive Behaviour Therapy 1: an Introduction for Humanistic and Psychodynamic Counsellors and Psychotherapists (P03022)

? Credit Points : 20 ? SCQF Level : 11 ? Acronym : HEA-P-CBT1

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the practice of cognitive behavioural therapy (primarily focussed on the Beck model) as conceptualised in the behavioural framework and considered within the dialogue between psychodynamic perspectives and the person-centred approach. Grounded in behavioural understandings of personal change, the course examines the key tenets of the approach, with application specifically to issues of depression and anxiety in counselling practice. Topics include: the history and theory of cognitive behavioural therapy; the application of CBT for depression; the application of CBT for anxiety; the application of cognitive behavioural ideas for humanistic and psychodynamic practitioners. A distinctive feature of the course is the inclusion of practice sessions, in which participants have the opportunity to practice the application of their learning.

Entry Requirements

? This course is not available to visting students.

? Pre-requisites : This course is open to any enrolled postgraduate student in Counselling and Psychotherapy and for students on other programmes who have experience of therapeutic work with individuals.

Subject Areas

Home subject area

Counselling Studies, (School of Health in Social Science, Schedule D)

Delivery Information

? Normal year taken : Postgraduate

? Delivery Period : Semester 2 (Blocks 3-4)

? Contact Teaching Time : 2 hour(s) per week for 10 weeks

Summary of Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course students should be able to:
• Analyse the cognitive model for anxiety and depression and the key features of cognitive behavioural therapy, including the capacity to distinguish the cognitive and behavioural elements of CBT
• Critically appraise the empirical data for the efficacy of CBT for depression and anxiety
• Evaluate the application of socratic questioning, use of dysfunctional thought records, cognitive restructuring and working with core beliefs in the context of depression and anxiety
• Critically evaluate the CBT models of formulation and intervention for depression and anxiety, including the distinctive philosophical basis of CBT
• Evaluate the potential applications of these CBT models, methods and practices to their own practice

Assessment Information

One 4,000 to 5,000 word essay analysing a key theme in the practice of cognitive behavioural therapy. The assignment will involve the analysis of an audio-recorded practice session in which the student is applying CBT methods and approaches. The student will analyse their use of CBT in the context of their core counselling training in another orientation. The assignment will require the integration of relevant research and literature.