This module provides learning in the underpinning history, science and theories of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The module builds on this foundation by critically analysing the development of CBT through its empirical research, applications of CBT in clinical practice and cultural and inclusive considerations in CBT. The module includes applications and suitability of CBT through clinical guidelines and empirical contra-indications including consideration for values, culture & inclusivity in CBT practice.

The theoretical learning in this module is applied in developing knowledge and skills in clinical practice. The context and framework of mental health service structure is provided including the stepped-care model and the CBT Practitioner role within this structure. Essential principles for CBT structure, assessment and formulation are learned and applied to practice. Empirical measures used to monitor CBT processes and outcomes are critically analysed and applied to practice.

This module will begin with an induction and introduction to the course. Following induction, there will be synchronous learning via interactive weekly lectures and seminars for skills role-play practice, group presentations on clinical vignettes, assignment workshops, academic mentoring sessions and directed problem-based learning. As well as formal classroom-based and online learning, you will be involved in the peer and tutor observation of CBT assessment and formulation skills role-play and will gain feedback on your own approaches. (150 hours)

In addition to this you will have 3.5 hours per week self-directed study time on placement to engage in asynchronous learning, to consolidate and build upon your learning from the taught sessions and to prepare for assessments. This will involve tasks such as reading key texts and journal articles, work based self-assessments, self-reflection on skills development, shadowing/observation, role play/practice with peers/supervisors of assessment and formulation, self-practice of interventions with reflection (i.e. applying techniques to issues from own life). (250 hours)

1. Demonstrate systematic knowledge and understanding of the underpinning theoretical principles for CBT structure, assessment and formulation. Learning; Knowledge & Understanding

2. Demonstrate skills of enquiry as “scientist practitioners” through your knowledge, understanding and critical analysis of CBT empirical research. Knowledge & Understanding; Enquiry; Analysis

3. Demonstrate skills competence by applying principles of CBT structure, assessment and formulation to practice, including reflection on the range of individual and diverse contextual factors in CBT process. Application; Communication; Reflection

4. Demonstrate application of knowledge to practice in therapeutic problem solving in CBT assessment and formulation, through clinical decision making in assessment of suitability for CBT, including reflection on the range of individual and diverse contextual factors in CBT process. Knowledge & Understanding; Application; Communication; Reflection; Problem Solving

Students will require personal IT facilities for learning

Students will require a verified clinical placement with access to work as a trainee with adult service users experiencing common mental health problems

Students will require weekly access to a clinical supervisor in the workplace, who is a BABCP Accredited Practitioner, offering individual supervision

University library has a range of learning and teaching texts and journals, including an online reading list.

Content session resources are updated on a weekly basis, via Blackboard site.

Beck, J. S. (2020). Cognitive therapy: Basics and beyond (3rd Ed.). Guilford Press.

Cockx, A. (2016). Assessment and case formulation in cognitive behavioural therapy (2nd ed.). Sage.

Daiches, A. & Golding, L. (2005). Racism, Diversity and Responsibility. Clinical Psychology, 48, 5-6.

Kennerley, H., Kirk, J., & Westbrook, D. (2017). An introduction to cognitive behaviour therapy: Skills and applications (3rd Ed.). Sage.

Meet requirements for eligibility according to BABCP Minimum Training Standards criteria: Core Profession or KSA Portfolio
Pass Academic Screening
Verified clinical placement for duration of training period

In this module you will learn the underpinning history, science and theories of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). You will build on this learning by developing and applying your skills to critically analyse the development of CBT through its empirical research. You will develop your understanding of the context and framework of mental health service structure and the CBT Practitioner role within these structures.

You will learn how to apply the underpinning theory of CBT in clinical practice. You will develop your skills in the essential principles for CBT structure, assessment and formulation. Linking the empirical basis of CBT to clinical practice is a key principle as a CBT Practitioner. You will develop and apply skills in use of empirical measures used to monitor CBT processes and outcomes in your clinical practice.

Students will be required to complete 2 summative assessments.

1) Written case study (50%, 2500 words), based on material from an evidenced treatment case in clinical practice (either closely or non-closely supervised), demonstrating knowledge of key principles of CBT assessment. Includes a case presentation of a client assessment, including evidence of use of empirically grounded CBT clinical measures.

Learning Outcomes: 1,2,4

2) CBT Clinical Formulation OSCE (50%, 45 minutes duration), demonstrating simulated clinical competence through role-play in collaborative construction of a CBT formulation with a client.

Learning Outcomes: 1,3,4

Students are required to pass all elements of assessment in order to pass the module.