Attitudes towards CBT in trainee clinical psychologists

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to address how one Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy) programme contributes to the shaping of attitudes of its trainee clinical psychologists (TCPs) towards cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 28 TCPs completed an online, mixed-methods questionnaire relating to their attitudes towards CBT, what factors had influenced their attitude and how competent they felt in applying CBT to clinical practice.

Findings

The majority of respondents reported a positive attitude towards CBT. There was a statistically significant positive change at an individual level in TCPs’ views of CBT between the point at which they applied for the DClinPsy and the present day. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified influential factors on the development of TCP attitudes towards CBT. The vast majority of TCPs reported that they felt competent applying CBT in their clinical practice.

Research limitations/implications

Overall, the DClinPsy has a positive effect on TCPs’ attitudes towards CBT. However, the influence of placements has a more mixed effect on attitudes. A small sample size reduced the reliability of these conclusions. Recommendations for further evaluation have been made.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates the effect of a DClinPsy programme on TCPs’ attitudes towards CBT. The value is that it establishes which components of the course have different effects on trainee attitudes.

Citation

Hancox, L.J., Gresswell, D.M. and De Boos, D. (2020), "Attitudes towards CBT in trainee clinical psychologists", The Journal of Mental Health Training, Education and Practice, Vol. 15 No. 5, pp. 275-286. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMHTEP-01-2020-0001