Training In CBT & Other Evidence-Based Psychological Therapies
Introduction
Low-intensity psychological therapy has proven to be effective in addressing mild to moderate mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety disorders. It is a structured, evidence-based approach with a total contact time typically amounting to six hours or less. Sessions are brief, usually lasting no more than 30 minutes, and are delivered by trained practitioners (Shafran et al., 2021). LICBT is highly flexible and can be provided through a range of non-traditional formats, including telephone consultations, online platforms, video conferencing, group sessions, email, and even messaging (Bennett-Levy et al., 2010; Richards & Whyte, 2011).
Cognitive Restructuring (CR) and Graded Exposure (GE) are cornerstone techniques in low-intensity CBT, providing evidence-based strategies for helping clients address unhelpful thinking patterns and avoidance behaviours. These interventions play a critical role in empowering clients to achieve meaningful change, especially within the brief treatment frameworks typical of low-intensity work. This session provides a valuable opportunity to refresh your understanding of these techniques and to consider practical strategies for overcoming common barriers to their successful implementation.
The event will be equivalent to 5.1/2 hrs of CPD.
Content
In this session, we will focus on the core techniques of CR and GE within low-intensity CBT. Participants will revisit the theoretical foundations and evidence supporting these approaches and explore how to implement them effectively in brief treatment formats. The session will cover practical strategies for applying CR and GE to address unhelpful thinking patterns and avoidance behaviours in clients and will provide tools to overcome common barriers.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the webinar and associated resources participants will:
• Be able to outline the theoretical underpinnings for Cognitive Restructuring and Graded Exposure in low-intensity CBT
• Outline the evidence base for Cognitive Restructuring and Graded Exposure in low-intensity CBT
• Refresher of the stages of Cognitive Restructuring and Graded Exposure in low-intensity CBT
• Consider how to integrate Cognitive Restructuring and Graded Exposure within brief low intensity treatment models
• Identifying common difficulties encountered or barriers to Cognitive Restructuring and Graded Exposure in low-intensity CBT
Training Modalities
The session will include lecture content, Reflective exercise, Q&A, and polls.
Key References
Bennett-Levy, J., Richards, D., Farrand, P., Christensen, H., Griffiths, K., Kavanagh, D., & Williams, C. (Eds.). (2010). Oxford guide to low intensity CBT interventions. OUP Oxford.
Grist, S. (2020). Cognitive interventions: A thought is just a thought. In P. Farrand (Ed.), Low intensity CBT skills and interventions: A practitioner’s manual (Chapter 12). Sage.
Marrinan, T. (2019). Treatment strategies. In P. Papworth & T. Marrinan (Eds.), Low intensity cognitive behaviour therapy: A practitioner’s guide (Chapter 10). Sage.
Papworth, M. (2020). Graded exposure therapy: Climbing ladders to health. In P. Farrand (Ed.), Low intensity CBT skills and interventions: A practitioner’s manual (Chapter 13). Sage.
Ruth, E., & Spiers, J. (2023). A pragmatic guide to low intensity psychological therapy: Care in high volume. Academic Press.
Shafran, R., Myles-Hooton, P., Bennett, S., & Öst, L. G. (2021). The concept and definition of low intensity cognitive behaviour therapy. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 138, 103803. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brat.2021.103803
Richards, D., & Whyte, M. (2009). Reach out: National programme student materials to support the delivery of training for psychological wellbeing practitioners delivering low intensity interventions. Rethink.
About the presenter
Taf Kunorubwe is a BABCP-accredited CBT Therapist, Supervisor, and Trainer with experience working as a PWP and High-Intensity Therapist in England. He has also led Low Intensity CBT (LICBT) and CBT training courses in Wales. Currently, Taf works part-time in private practice, with a special interest in improving access and outcomes for clients from diverse backgrounds. In addition to his clinical work, he serves as a guest lecturer at several universities and as a trainer in the field. He also offers consultancy services to both local and national organizations, actively contributing to projects focused on enhancing the quality and accessibility of mental health services.
Who should attend
This event is designed for practitioners delivering or supervising the delivery of Low Intensity group interventions. This may include CBT Therapists, Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners, Low Intensity Practitioners, Children and Young People's Wellbeing Practitioners, Educational Wellbeing Practitioners, and Psychologists