Intermediate: Cognitive Behavior Therapy- (Fully Accredited)

Ongoing Professional Development: This course provides the knowledge and skills to improve performance in this area, offering 10 hours of valuable learning and professional development, as evidenced on the certificate issued upon completion.

Live Streamed Availability: This course and a range of other related courses can be delivered to groups of between 6 and 25 people via Live Streaming with Zoom. Contact Kevin O’Doherty for more details on pricing and availability etc.

This fully accredited course, recognized by the International Association of Therapists (IAOTH), provides an in-depth exploration of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) theory and practice. As a follow-up to the Introduction to CBT course, this advanced course focuses specifically on the role of Dysfunctional Assumptions and Life Rules in psychological distress, exploring how they develop and, importantly, how to amend unhelpful life rules to promote healthier thinking patterns. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate acknowledging your enhanced understanding of these critical CBT concepts.

Designed for individuals who are already familiar with the basics of CBT, this course will take your knowledge to a higher level. It is especially suitable for:

• Therapists or counselors who wish to deepen their understanding of CBT and its application in therapeutic settings.

• Individuals undergoing CBT or considering therapy, as it will provide them with valuable insight into how their own dysfunctional beliefs and life rules may contribute to emotional distress.

• Those with a general interest in CBT, whether for personal development or professional growth.

Throughout the course, you will delve into several key areas:

• Understanding Dysfunctional Assumptions and Life Rules: The course provides a clear explanation of what dysfunctional assumptions are, how they contribute to psychological distress, and how they develop over time. You’ll explore how life rules (beliefs about how one should live) influence behavior and emotions and contribute to problems like anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties.

• Identifying Unhelpful Life Rules: One of the core components of the course is learning how to recognize and challenge unhelpful life rules that can perpetuate negative thought patterns and behaviors. You will gain a deeper understanding of how these assumptions shape decision-making and emotional responses.

• Techniques to Amend Dysfunctional Beliefs: The course equips you with practical tools to help individuals amend their dysfunctional assumptions and life rules. You’ll learn how to guide clients (or yourself) in shifting these beliefs to more balanced and flexible perspectives, which can lead to improved emotional well-being and coping strategies.

In addition, students will receive a free copy of the book: "The Little Book of Thinking Errors" in downloadable PDF format. This resource provides a concise summary of common thinking errors in CBT and is a great tool for reinforcing the concepts learned throughout the course.

The teaching style is relaxed, informal, and professional. Students are encouraged to actively engage with the material, reflect on how the concepts apply to their own experiences, and discuss these ideas with peers, colleagues, or friends. The course lecturer, Kevin O'Doherty, welcomes questions, feedback, and discussions, ensuring a supportive learning environment.

Kevin O'Doherty is a highly experienced Psychologist, Forensic Mental Health Expert Witness, and CBT Therapist with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. His expertise allows him to present complex CBT concepts in an accessible and practical way, offering both theoretical insights and real-world applications. Kevin is also available for personalized support throughout the course.

This course is available via live streaming or face-to-face formats upon request, making it flexible for both individuals and organizations looking to enhance their knowledge of CBT.

By the end of this course, you will have gained a comprehensive understanding of how Dysfunctional Assumptions and Life Rules influence psychological well-being, and you will be equipped with advanced CBT tools to help amend these beliefs, leading to healthier thinking and improved mental health outcomes.