Behavioural Therapy
Behavioural therapy focuses on human behaviour, believing that behaviours are learnt from our environment either by classical conditioning (by means of associations) or operant conditioning (by means of rewards and punishments).
As behaviour is learnt, behaviourists believe that it can be unlearnt. Behavioural therapy therefore seeks to remove maladaptive or unwanted behaviour.
Behavioural therapists will also consider the thoughts and feelings behind certain behaviours in order to better understand them.
Insights into where the behaviours came from are helpful, however behavioural therapy is predominantly focused on the present and future, seeking to promote positive change and to rectify current issues, rather than focusing on developing insight.
What can behavioural therapy help with?
- addiction
- anxiety
- obsessive compulsive disorder
- personality disorders
- phobias
- body focused repetitive behaviours
- eating disorders
- ADHD
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What types of therapy are included in the behavioural school?
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) relies on behavioural techniques, and adds a cognitive element, focusing on the problematic thoughts behind behaviours.
Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) is a form of CBT that helps people learn to manage their emotions, cope with distress, and improve interpersonal relationships. It was developed to help support those with personality disorders.
Exposure therapy incorporates techniques that expose people to the source of their fears while practicing relaxation strategies. It is useful for treating specific phobias and other forms of anxiety.
Rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) focuses on identifying negative or destructive thoughts and feelings. People then actively challenge those thoughts and replace them with more rational, realistic ones.
Training as a behavioural therapist
You'll usually need an accredited postgraduate course in cognitive behavioural therapy and experience of working in mental health.
To do a postgraduate course, you'll usually need a degree in a health and social care subject like: mental health nursing. social work.
To become an accredited BABCP CBT therapist, you'll need to obtain at least 100 taught CBT skills and theory hours. You'll also need to have a prior background in mental health.
Relevant organisations
Last updated October 10 2024
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