Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy

Table of Contents - May 2011 - Volume 39, Issue 03  

Research Article

Improving the Quality of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Case Conceptualization: The Role of Self-Practice/Self-Reflection

Beverly Haarhoffa1 c1, Kerry Gibsona1 and Ross Fletta1

a1 Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

Background: CBT case conceptualization is considered to be a key competency. Prior to the publication in 2009 of Kuyken, Padesky and Dudley's book, little has been documented concerning methods for training conceptualization skills and the conceptualization process is usually perceived as predominantly an intellectual process. In this paper, the Declarative-Procedural-Reflective model of therapist skill acquisition provides a route to understanding how different kinds of knowledge systems can be integrated to enhance therapist skill acquisition. Method: Sixteen recent graduates of a postgraduate diploma in cognitive behaviour therapy worked independently through a self-practice/self-reflection workbook designed to lead them through a series of CBT interventions commonly used to elicit the information required for a CBT conceptualization. Results: The participants’ self-reflections were thematically analyzed and uncovered the following inter-related themes: increased theoretical understanding of the CBT model, self-awareness, empathy, conceptualization of the therapeutic relationship, and adaptation of clinical interventions and practice. Conclusions: A tentative conclusion reached, based on the self-reflections of the participants, was that targeted self-practice/self-reflection enhanced case conceptualization skill by consolidating the Declarative, Procedural and Reflective systems important in therapist skill acquisition.

(Online publication February 15 2011)

Keywords:

Correspondence:

c1 Reprint requests to Beverly Haarhoff, Department of Psychology, Massey University, 33 Rosecamp Road, Beach Haven, Auckland 0626, New Zealand. E-mail: b.a.haarhoff@massey.ac.nz

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