Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: An Introduction

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 6
• Convenor: to be confirmed
• Assessment: a 2000-word essay (30%) and a 1.5-hour examination (70%)

In this module you will acquire a comprehensive understanding of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as it is used within the NHS.

The module will be of interest if you:

• work in a context in which CBT is used
• wish to train as a CBT practitioner
• have had or are thinking of having CBT
• are interested in mental health and evidence-based therapeutic intervention.

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

• explain and discuss how the principles of behaviourism and the cognitive model of psychology are applied in current psychotherapeutic practice
• explain and discuss the aetiology of specific disorders treated by CBT within the NHS
• explain and discuss specific techniques used within this treatment approach, with reference to relevant research
• understand the development of ideas within this field, and of contemporary approaches and issues and the implications for practice
• compare and contrast CBT and other forms of therapeutic intervention with reference to relevant research
• explain how CBT would be adapted to the needs of different client groups and context
• discuss the range of research methods appropriate to the study of this area of psychology
• identify the ethical issues when conducting research in this area
• demonstrate awareness of cultural considerations in the evaluation of theory and research
• explain the limitations of CBT, with reference to relevant research
• clearly explain the training required to practise as a CBT therapist, and demonstrate awareness of the routes to becoming a qualified practitioner.