Clinicians' Experiences of Delivering Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Ten (CBT-T): A Qualitative Investigation

Abstract

Objective: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Ten (CBT-T) is a relatively new manualised treatment for non-underweight patients with eating disorders. It has been found to be an effective treatment and to be rated highly by patients. However, it is also important to consider clinicians' perspectives in the implementation and development of new interventions, because clinician perspectives can impact treatment delivery, leading to issues such as therapist drift. Using a qualitative approach, this research aimed to examine clinician experiences of delivering CBT-T. Method: The sample consisted of 13 clinicians currently delivering CBT-T, with at least six months experience of delivering this treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams, using thematic analysis to identify themes from the interview transcripts. Results: Three themes and 10 subthemes were identified. The main themes were: positive experiences of delivering CBT-T, changing experience over time, and challenges in delivery. Discussion: Clinicians reported an overall largely positive experience of delivering CBT-T, with some challenges related to treatment delivery identified. Findings are discussed in relation to wider research literature, with recommendations given about how clinicians can be supported with their delivery of CBT-T, and for future research and CBT-T development.