Name: Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Rating: 4.4 (286 reviews)

Udemy Business

Teach on Udemy

Turn what you know into an opportunity and reach millions around the world.

Learn More

Your cart is empty.

Keep shopping

Created byKevin O'Doherty - + ZOOM CLASSES

Last updated 5/2026

English

What you'll learn

By the end of this course you will have a good, comprehensive understanding of CBT
In this course you will learn about how CBT began, how CBT works, the ABC model of Distress, thoughts feelings and behavior, life rules and core beliefs
By the end of the course you will have developed the skills needed to use some CBT techniques, strategies and tools for your own use and for work with others.

Course content

10 sections • 29 lectures • 5h 14m total length

Welcome and Introduction to the Course11:36
You are very welcome to this brand new Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Course with myself Kevin O'Doherty. The course is a complete remake and re-recording of the earlier course by the same name and is now made up of much improved lectures and resources. If you have any questions at all, please do reach out to me, I am always happy to be contacted by students (14000 and counting!)
Exploring the Underlying Thoughts - What we Think About we Bring About15:39
One of the central ideas of CBT is: what we think about we bring about! - the importance of our thinking is highlighted along with how this impacts on the way that we feel.
Principles of CBT8:34
In this lecture we begin looking at some of the basic principles of CBT, the theoretical ideas that helped it into being and that are helping to constantly inform the way that we as CBT Therapists practice.
Exploring Thinking Errors - And How to Resolve Them!14:25
The term thinking errors is unfortunate, because it implies that there is a right and a wrong way to think - not so. In CBT we usually say that there are helpful and unhelpful ways to think and that with practice, we can change our habitual thinking to be more helpful, compassionate, constructive and realistic.
HWK Task - Research Different Therapies and Draw Similarities with CBT3:05
This is a homework task where you are asked to explore CBT along with other therapies and draw out the similarities and differences in how they work in resolving psychological distress.
Continuing to Explore Thinking Errors - And How to Resolve Them10:36
In this lecture we continue on the theme of exploring thinking errors and using strategies to challenge the errors and help to replace our thinking, so as to reduce distress.
ABCD Analysis Example15:34
In this lecture, Kevin illustrates (using a personal example) the way that thoughts directly influence the way that we feel...and how we can begin to explore this relationship for ourselves.
ABC Model and Thinking Errors25:43
This session builds on the topics covered in the first segment. The link between what we think and how we feel is developed further, with real examples of the main strategies used by CBT Therapists in helping clients to familiarise themselves with this link.
Working on Your Thinking Errors3:00
Here is where we get down to the nitty gritty of CBT and explore how you can start working on your thinking errors - great fun!
HWK Task - Exploration of More Thinking Errors and Give Examples2:52
This brief lecture is a homework task for you to explore other thinking errors (that have not yet been described in this course) then to describe the thinking errors and perhaps give examples of where you have made this particular error. Good luck! Let me know how you get on.
Evaluating The Evidence Around Our Unhelpful Thoughts4:15
This lecture includes tips and strategies for you to begin evaluating the unhelpful thoughts that come into your mind and hopefully turn these around into ore helpful, better feeling thoughts.
More on the Nuts and Bolts of CBT15:22
As the name suggests, here is where we make more progress on using CBT for our own needs. We begin to challenge unhelpful ways of thinking and explore more helpful alternatives.
Research Underlying CBT as a Valuable Intervention7:44
CBT has been researched a great deal over the years and is still ongoing. Each intervention used in CBT for a wide variety of emotional issues has likely been tried and tested a great deal in research groups. Many CBT Therapists contribute to ongoing research and development in the area.
Putting Your Negative Thoughts on Trial5:41
This video is in the form of a podcast coincversation between 2 professionals - discussing the topics at hand.

A Fictitious ABCD Analysis19:57
In this lecture, we look at the fictitious example of Fiona, to see how use of the ABCD form helps us (and the client) to see the link between thoughts and feelings. This is a crucial step in the process of begining to explore how helpful and constructive our thoughts are, prior to replacing them
The Advantages and Disadvantages Strategy10:44
A well known and often used technique in CBT is where we help clients to explore the advantages and disadvantages of a particular way of thinking or behaving. This helps us (or the client) to make informed decisions and change the way they think or behave, in accordance with the most beneficial outcomes.
The Responsibility Pie Technique11:26
A lecture describing the often used Responsibility Pie technique. This technique is often used to help us explore instances where we are perhaps blaming ourself, giving ourself a hard time or generally beating up on ourselves over some pervived wrong-doing
Common Misconceptions about CBT15:47

Cognitive and Behavioural Aspects of Anxiety and Depression17:39
This session looks at 2 of the most common mental health issues (anxiety and depression) from a CBT perspective. Specifically we look at some of the common thoughts that people tend to have when they are either anxious or depressed, along with some of the common behavioral strategies that they employ, which often serve to worsen the problem. The session also includes a sound file that gives an overview of what one would expect to be covered in the first CBT session.

Important Qualities of a CBT Therapist11:06
Ideally all therapists will be helpful, constructive, warm, welcoming, non judgemental and professional! In CBT, the importance of these qualities in a therapist is highlighted. Indeed, developing these very important skills is part and parcel of our training, ongoing practice and clinical supervision.
The Needs of the CBT Therapist9:42
Contrary to popular opinion, therapists are also human and we have needs!...this lecture looks at what those needs are and how therapists go about ensuring they are met.

Personal Application of CBT Strategies and Techniques8:30
This session encourages the student to begin using CBT techniques for their own development and problem solving. This is an important aspect of learning about the CBT approach and becoming familiar with exactly how it works at a basic level. be sure to read the recomended reading, including 'The Little Book fo Thinking Errors' an excellent read!

Recomended Reading5:51
A brief lecture outlining the further reading that you can do to take the learning gained from this introductory course forward. Well done!
Questions about Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Keep Practising the Skills - Thankyou and Goodbye5:00
Practice makes perfect (almost!) keep developing the skills that you have learned on this course, read books, go on further training (purchase more of my courses (LOL) and above all, have fun in developing your knowledge and skills in this area.

Please do keep in touch during and after taking this course, I very much value the contact I have with students. Remember to get in touch if you would like one of our accredited compay certificates of completion for this course.

Thank you so much for devoting your time to this course. My very best regards.

Requirements

An interest in Psychology, Counselling or therapy
Good basic use of the English language

Description

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 IAOTH (International Association of Therapists) accredited course provides a comprehensive introduction to Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), perfect for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of this powerful therapeutic approach. The course has been fully updated using modern filming and recording technologies, ensuring the content is engaging, up-to-date, and accessible.

Course Overview:

The course consists of 10 sessions, featuring 20 lecture videos, word handouts, mp3 sound file lectures, and a quiz to reinforce learning. It covers the essential aspects of CBT, including its development, how it works, and practical models like the ABC model of distress. The course delves into key CBT concepts such as life rules, core beliefs, and the link between thoughts and emotions, helping students understand how thoughts influence feelings and behavior.

Key Areas Covered:

Introduction to CBT: Learn the basics of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, its history, and how it evolved as a therapeutic approach.
ABC Model of Distress: Understand how activating events, beliefs, and consequences interconnect in the development of emotional distress.
Life Rules & Core Beliefs: Explore the role of underlying life rules and core beliefs that influence our thoughts and behavior.
Thoughts and Emotions: Discover the links between cognitive patterns and emotional responses, and how identifying and changing unhelpful thinking can improve mental health.

Course Features:

10 Sessions: The course is divided into manageable sessions, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
Diverse Learning Materials: Includes PowerPoint presentations, teacher talk, videos, and whiteboard explanations to cater to different learning styles.
Interactive Learning: Students are encouraged to participate in discussions, ask questions, and share feedback, ensuring an interactive and engaging experience.
Self-Help Resource: Students receive a free copy of Kevin O'Doherty's best-selling self-help book, The Little Book of Thinking Errors: A Self Help Guide for Changing Unhelpful Thoughts.

Ideal for:

Personal Development: Anyone looking to understand CBT for self-help or to improve their own mental well-being.
Professional Training: Those interested in pursuing a career in CBT therapy or related fields, and those who may wish to incorporate CBT principles into their professional practice.
Mental Health Students & Therapists: Suitable for professionals working in mental health who wish to enhance their knowledge of CBT and its practical applications.

Teaching Style:

The course is delivered in a relaxed, informal, yet professional style, allowing students to learn in a comfortable and supportive environment. Kevin O'Doherty, the course instructor, encourages students to think critically about the material, engage in conversations with peers, and reach out for clarification or feedback. The course also allows students to share their opinions on the topics discussed.

Instructor:

The course is taught by Kevin O'Doherty, a Psychologist, Forensic Mental Health Expert Witness, and CBT Therapist with over 20 years of experience in mental health. Kevin has built a wealth of knowledge through years of working directly with clients and has developed a reputation as an expert in the field of CBT.

Additional Learning Options:

The course is available for live streaming and face-to-face sessions upon request, offering flexible learning opportunities for individuals and organizations.

Conclusion:

This course is an excellent resource for anyone with an interest in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy—whether for personal growth, professional development, or educational pursuits. With over 14,000 students across 58 countries and high-quality materials, this course provides a solid foundation in CBT, offering the skills and insights needed to apply its principles to various aspects of life.

Contact Kevin O'Doherty for more details or to inquire about live sessions.

Who this course is for:

Anyone with an interest in CBT, therapy or psychology
People who want to use CBT techniques for their own use
People intending to go on to train as a CBT Therapist
Therapists from other backgrounds who would like to have a good understanding of CBT and how it works.
People who are considering or receiving Cognitive Behavior Therapy

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

• Introduction to the course and Theoretical background of CBT14 lectures • 2hr 24min

The ABC Model of Distress and Thinking Errors4 lectures • 58min

Life Rules (Dysfunctional Assumptions) and Psychological Distress2 lectures • 24min

A CBT Understanding of Common Psychological Distress Issues1 lecture • 18min

Core Beliefs and Psychological Distress1 lecture • 15min

The Ending of The Therapeutic Relationship1 lecture • 8min

CBT Therapist Needs and Development2 lectures • 21min

CBT and Other Treatments1 lecture • 8min

Summary, and Using CBT Skills, Techniques and Strategies for your own developmen1 lecture • 9min

A Free Bonus Copy of The Little Book of Thinking Errors by Kevin O'Doherty2 lectures • 11min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: