Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Specialisation

This unit provides a comprehensive foundation in cognitive behavioural psychotherapeutic approaches. It examines the application of several highly effective and researched approaches to promoting change in inappropriate or unhelpful thinking. As studies have shown cognitive approaches to be the preferred treatment approach to a variety of conditions and problem sets, this unit also discusses specific mental health issues and explores the use of cognitive therapy concepts and components to relieve symptoms of those disorders.

Learning Outcomes

• Critically reflect on the numerous cognitive behavioural models as they are applied to a variety of disorders
• Conduct a behavioural analysis to identify factors maintaining problematic behaviours
• Use a wide range of tools and conceptualisations to integrate therapy and behavioural interventions
• Develop a treatment rationale and mutual goal setting
• Conduct assessment procedures
• Implement client skills training in cognitive restructuring and problem-solving
• Formulate cognitive dimensions and present frameworks for change
• Integrate a theoretical approach into your professional practice

Content Areas

• Applications of CBT
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Strategies
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Depression and Anxiety Disorders
• Obsessions and Compulsions and Related Conditions
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Substance Abuse and Eating Disorders
• Suicide and Self-Harm
• Anger Control and Aggressive Behaviour
• Future Developments in Cognitive Therapy

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery or self-directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 120 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates as 13 hours per week for the unit.