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How to become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist) jobs

1,552

Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist) courses

Career progression and salary expectations for a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

Junior/Trainee CBT Therapist

| Up to £35,000

CBT Therapist

| Up to £45,000

Senior/Specialised CBT Therapist

| Up to £60,000

The role of a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

What does a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist) do?

Want to turn your empathy into action? You should become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT)...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (also known as CBTs or CBT Therapists) help clients address dysfunctional thoughts and behaviours through techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioural experiments, exposure therapy, and problem-solving to facilitate change.

By working collaboratively with each client, it’s a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist’s job to identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking and behaviour, creating personalised treatment plans that will help them to manage difficulties and lead fulfilling lives.

General tasks and duties for a Cognitive Behavioral Therapists (CBT) include:

Conducting initial assessments
Setting treatment goals and develop personalised plans
Educating clients about CBT principles
Teaching skills to challenge negative thoughts
Guiding exposure exercises
Monitoring progress and adjust treatment strategies
Collaborating with other professionals
Maintaining appropriate documentation and confidentiality

Is a career as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist) right for me?

First and foremost, Cognitive Behavioural Therapists (CBTs) need strong communication skills to establish rapport, convey therapeutic concepts clearly, and foster trust.

You’ll also need to demonstrate analytical thinking when assessing issues and developing treatment plans, using collaborative goal-setting skills to implement evidence based interventions.

Key skills for a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) include:

Excellent communication skills
Empathy and active listening
Analytical and problem-solving abilities
Collaboration and goal-setting with clients
Flexibility and adaptability in approach
Patience and resilience in the face of setbacks

What's it like to be a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)?

"Being a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist is incredibly fulfilling. It's about guiding clients through their journey of self-discovery and growth, helping them challenge negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies. Each session is an opportunity to witness the transformative power of therapy and support clients as they make meaningful strides toward positive change."

Get qualified as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT Therapist)

To become a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), you’ll first need to study for a bachelor's degree in psychology, counselling, or a related field. You’ll then be required to complete a master's degree or postgraduate diploma in CBT, accredited by organisations like the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).

While licensure isn't mandatory, many practitioners choose to register with regulatory bodies like the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) or the British Psychological Society (BPS) to demonstrate their adherence to professional standards.

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