Overview

This module is 4 of 6 (which make up a Diploma) which will meet the requirements for accreditation with the BABCP. The aims of this module are to increase participants’ knowledge and understanding of the theoretical underpinning of cognitive behaviour theories and to teach basic and intermediate CBT skills and competencies for complex presentations. Participants will be required to relate theory to practice through completion of homework tasks that necessitate regular practice within their clinical settings.

Teaching in this module aims to develop advanced skills in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders improving proficiency in the fundamental techniques of CBT and developing competencies in the specialist techniques applied to more complex depression and anxiety disorders. Teaching will cover specific models (e.g., Complex Depression, OCD, PTSD, GAD, Health Anxiety, Eating Disorders), evidence base, assessment and adapting approaches for specific populations (e.g., substance misuse, older adults, children, learning disabilities and long-term conditions) as well as evaluation of treatment will be covered in the workshops.

Assessment Strategy

Students are required to pass all elements of assessment

For the Clinical Practical Assessment marked using the CTSR, a minimum total score of 36 is required with no individual item scoring less than 2.

Assessment criteria -threshold -50%
Adequate case study/essay but largely descriptive with no real development or discussion. Understanding of the main concepts in applying the CBT model. Limited analysis showing only obvious points of evaluation and linking theory and practice experience. Highly limited originality in approach, interpretation and/or voice. Limited independent research. Arguments presented but lack of coherence and evidence for only some claims. Focused but with some irrelevant material and weaknesses in structure. Acceptable presentation and appropriate expression. Attempt correct format and appropriate referencing style.

-good - 60% Reasonably presented case study/essay that is well organized and structured, demonstrating a good understanding of the application of the CBT model. Clear understanding and mostly free of factual errors. Appropriate intervention/s to client problems based on an understanding of the CBT model. Some analysis showing evaluation and synthesis of ideas linking theory and practice experience. Some originality in approach, interpretation and/or voice. Some independent research. Coherent arguments with evidence for some claims. Focused and well structured. Good presentation with accurate and appropriate expression. Mostly correct format in appropriate referencing style.

-excellent - 70%> Comprehensive case study/essay, demonstrating clarity of argument and expression with depth of insight into CBT and its evidence base and human development. Detailed understanding with no factual errors. Comprehensive solutions to client problems presented based on a solid CBT conceptualisation of problems. Critical analysis showing evaluation and synthesis of ideas linking theory and practice experience. Originality in approach, interpretation and/or voice. Extensive independent research. Logically defended arguments with evidence for all claims. Highly focused and well structured. Excellent presentation with accurate and appropriate expression. Correct format in appropriate referencing style.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply strategies based on cognitive and behavioural theories to a complex case presentations (e.g., behaviourism, cognitive biases, safety behaviours, exposure – based interventions, cognitive restructuring).

• Complete a CBT assessment in collaboration with a client (on a third presentation), summarising relevant background information and link underlying CBT theory to an intervention plan

• Critically evaluate the client outcome and reflect on own clinical practice.

• Critically evaluate the place of medication alongside the psychosocial treatment of common mental health disorders

• Identify and apply the core CBT competencies required in individual therapy as defined in the CTSR- Scale at the competent level achieving a total score of 36 or more (min 2 on each item).