The practice of behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy - Richard Stern

The integration of behavioural and cognitive approaches to psychotherapy has much to offer in the treatment of a wide range of disabling conditions in psychiatry. In this book the authors, both experienced clinicians and teachers, provide what they describe as a 'tool-kit' for the management of patients using behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy. Based firmly on the work of the pioneers of behavioural and cognitive approaches, the authors illustrate the application of these principles through a vivid and instructive series of case histories. They show how, properly applied, behavioural and cognitive psychotherapy can contribute to the treatment and rehabilitation of even severely incapacitated patients. The cases discussed range from obsessive compulsive disorders and anxiety states through to chronically disabled patients with schizophrenia or depression. Always the emphasis is on practical work with patients for the alleviation of maladaptive or unwanted behaviour and thoughts, and the authors also give guidance on some of the pitfalls to be avoided and on the concomitant use of medication.