Cognitive therapy training for psychiatrists: Impact on individual clinical practice

Abstract

Aims and Method. We aimed to survey how psychiatrists with in-depth training in cognitive therapy use these skills. A postal questionnaire based on a previous survey was sent to all psychiatrists who are accredited members of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Results. There was a 94% response rate. Psychiatrists in non-psychotherapy posts used formal cognitive therapy, with an average of 20% of new patients compared with 65% for those in psychotherapy posts, and were less satisfied with the extent to which they were able to use their skills (20% v. 80%). A total of 85% of respondents described themselves as being involved in teaching, training and supervision of cognitive therapy. Clinical Implications. Unless psychiatrists are planning on working in specialised psychotherapy posts, they are unlikely to use cognitive therapy training in formal therapy sessions. Further research is needed to determine whether cognitive therapy training for psychiatrists translates into improved outcomes for patients.