Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Depression

Module Overview: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Depression

This module provides an in-depth exploration of depression, focusing on its assessment, formulation, and evidence-based treatment through the principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Participants will gain advanced skills to understand and address depression, one of the most prevalent and impairing mental health conditions globally. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations, practical interventions, and insights into working with related conditions such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

Workshops and supervised practice sessions will emphasize personalized care, teaching participants to apply CBT techniques like behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, and strategies for addressing deeply held unhelpful beliefs. In addition, participants will learn to assess and manage co-occurring symptoms of anxiety and social anxiety, fostering comprehensive care approaches.

This module reflects the latest developments in CBT research and clinical practice, equipping participants with the tools to deliver effective, compassionate, and client-centered therapy.

Module Aims

This module is designed to:

• Equip participants with the skills to deliver effective CBT interventions for depression.
• Deepen understanding of depression's cognitive and behavioral mechanisms.
• Enhance competencies in assessing, formulating, and managing depression, with attention to anxiety and  low self-esteem as common co-occurring conditions.
• Develop the ability to apply and adapt evidence-based approaches to a wide range of clinical presentations.

Through engaging workshops, focused supervision, and reflective learning, participants will build confidence and expertise in integrating CBT principles into their practice.

Learning Outcomes

Specific Skills

Upon completing this module, participants will be able to:

• Identify and explain the key features of depression, including diagnostic criteria, common presentations, and epidemiological trends.
• Utilize cognitive-behavioral models to understand and address the maintenance of depressive symptoms.
• Design and implement individualized treatment plans that incorporate both behavioral and cognitive techniques.
• Apply CBT strategies to address overlapping symptoms of depression and co-occurring anxiety disorders, and  low self-esteem.
• Use validated tools (e.g., PHQ-9, Beck Depression Inventory) to assess client progress and guide treatment adjustments.

Professional Skills

• Adapt CBT interventions to meet individual client needs, focusing on flexibility and cultural sensitivity.
• Critically evaluate research and evidence-based practices to inform clinical decisions.
• Reflect on personal therapeutic skills and identify areas for ongoing development.

Personal and Key Skills

• Communicate clinical concepts effectively in both written and verbal formats.
• Collaborate with clients to develop meaningful goals and strategies for maintaining therapeutic progress.

Module Content

1. Foundations of Depression

• Overview of depressive disorders, including symptoms and diagnostic criteria.
• Exploring the global prevalence of depression and its cultural variations.
• The impact of depression on individuals, families, and communities.

2. Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches

• Beck’s cognitive model: understanding how thought patterns perpetuate depression.
• Behavioral activation: re-engaging clients in rewarding and purposeful activities.
• Techniques for addressing avoidance, rumination, and passivity.
• It also integrates recent research findings, such as the advances in cognitive-behavioral techniques to improve treatment outcomes.

3. Cognitive Restructuring

• Identifying and challenging unhelpful automatic thoughts.
• Addressing rules for living and their contribution to depressive cycles.
• Working with core beliefs to create lasting cognitive shifts.

4. Managing Co-Occurring Anxiety and  Low Self-esteem.

• Understanding the interaction between depression, anxiety, and  low self-esteem.
• Developing strategies to reduce avoidance and address social withdrawal.
• Conducting behavioral experiments to test and modify anxiety-related beliefs.

5. Risk Assessment and Relapse Prevention

• Identifying and managing risk factors, including suicidal ideation.
• Developing collaborative relapse prevention plans with clients.
• Supporting clients in maintaining progress and coping with future challenges.

Teaching Approach

• Workshops: Hands-on sessions with role-plays, case studies, and practical exercises.
• Supervision: Individual and group supervision to refine clinical techniques.
• Case Discussions: Opportunities to explore complex presentations and share insights.
• Research Integration: Incorporation of the latest findings to enhance understanding.

Assessment

Participants will be assessed through:

1. Written case formulations that demonstrate a clear understanding of CBT principles for depression.
2. Recorded therapy sessions with reflective evaluations of therapeutic skills.
3. Active participation in workshops and role-play exercises.

Recommended Reading and Resources

A comprehensive list of references will be provided in the course handouts and will be shared with participants upon registration.