Cognitive behavioural therapy and its relevance to nursing

Over the last 20 years, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has gained considerable momentum in mental healthcare practice. Its extensive evidence base for the treatment of mental health problems is well documented with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (2007a; b), which has recommended CBT as a key treatment modality in its best practice guidelines. More recently, the use of CBT has widened to a diverse range of physical healthcare environments, including dentistry, occupational therapy, palliative care and physiotherapy (Chartered Society of Physiotherapists, 2004; Buchanan and Zakrzewska, 2008; Donaghy et al, 2008; Hesslop, 2009), with preliminary research highlighting its use in improving patient outcomes both in terms of reduction in morbidity and improved quality of life. In this article, the authors outline the principles and techniques of CBT, give examples of how this form of psychotherapy can be applied within nursing practice, and discuss the theoretical and practical underpinnings that align CBT and nursing.