The Institute of Psychiatry cognitive behaviour therapy course

Abstract

Cognitive behaviour therapy is now widely accepted clinically as a treatment for depression and anxiety, and there is increasing research evidence to confirm its efficacy (Rush et al, 1977; Blackburn et al, 1981; Murphy et al, 1984; Butler et al, 1987; Beck, 1988). Of the various short term psychotherapies currently available, it is probably the most widely known and best researched. Despite this, and the recommendation of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (1986) that trainees receive training in cognitive therapy, there is little opportunity to gain a formal training in this psychotherapy. Short workshops are often available through the British Association for Behavioural Psychotherapy and from other sources, and ad hoc supervision from interested psychologists and psychiatrists may be available in some centres. Scott et al (1985) described a workshop and peer supervision training scheme in Newcastle. Macaskill (1986) reported a course for psychiatrists in training in Sheffield which extended over 20 weeks and combined Beck's cognitive therapy and Ellis' Rational Emotive Therapy.