Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies [Paperback]

Rob Willson (Author), Rhena Branch (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: February 17, 2006 | ISBN-10: 0470018380 | ISBN-13: 978-0470018385 | Edition: 1

"We all have aspects of ourselves that we would like to change, but many of us believe that a leopard can't change its spots – if that's you, stop there! Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies will help identify unhealthy modes of thinking – such as “a leopard can't change it's spots”! – that have been holding you back from the changes you want. CBT can help whether you're seeking to overcome anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem, lose weight, beat addiction or simply improve your outlook in your professional and personal life."

Editorial Reviews

Review

"…I think clinicians could find useful sections in this book…" (The Psychologist, September 2006)

"Well-written series" (Woman's Weekly, 15th March 2007)

"...[an] excellent book" (First, Monday 5th November 2007)

"Don't be put off by the title - this is one of the most comprehensive guides to CBT."  (Sunday Times, Monday 17th December 2007)

From the Back Cover

Learn to challenge negative thoughts before they take hold

Straightforward advice to help you feel like you again

Whether you're trying to fight anxiety and depression, beat addiction, or simply lose weight, the key to success is learning how to think differently. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a practical, sensible, and effective approach to help you master your thoughts and think constructively, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy For Dummies is the easiest and fastest way to get started.

Discover how to

• Turn negative thoughts into positive action
• Regain your sense of perspective
• Break the spiral of anxiety and depression
• Use CBT techniques in the real world
• Treat phobias and eating problems

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 348 pages
• Publisher: For Dummies; 1 edition (February 17, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0470018380
• ISBN-13: 978-0470018385
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #517,651 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

67 of 68 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars GOOD SOLID CBT WORKBOOK, October 21, 2007

By 

J. M. Bond "John" (Kwa Zulu, South Africa) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies (Paperback)

CBT is recognised as one of the most successful means of dealing with a variety of psychological problems. Trouble is that up till now, you need to spend thousands on talking to a therapist. What if there was a book you could work through, either with your therapist or if you are capable then on your own? What if there was a book that enables you to get more value out of your counselling and learn to cope more quickly and more effectively with your problems?

I believe that CBT for Dummies is that sort of book. It is a very well structured, effective book that will help you come to terms with problems such as depression, bipolar2, obsessive compulsive disorder and post traumatic stress. It is not a book to be read but one you slowly work through, doing the exercises. When I did the 1st exercise called the ABC, (activity belief, consequence), I realized I'd got value for money but the book contains a dozen more.

The down side to this book? It won't cure psychological problems but then I believe that nothing will. It will however give you powerful coping strategies. The book requires work, sometimes quite uncomfortable work. I would recommend that you have the safety net of a CBT therapist that you can call on if things get too uncomfortable.

I've had depression problems for over 40 years, triggered by a rough childhood and fighting in one of those ugly wars of Africa. After working with the book for four months, I'm starting to have a day or two, sometimes almost a week when I feel normal. (just a pity I didn't find a book like this 30 years ago...)

39 of 41 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good. But I am still nuts., March 8, 2007

By 

J Bouvary (London, UK) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies (Paperback)

I bought this book on the recommendation of my doctor. The book is very accessible and has lots of excellent suggestions and techniques. I have found it very helpful as a tool to help me get to grips with some problem areas in my life.

Overall, this book is an excellent introduction to CBT and I would heartily recommend it.

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Cognitive behavioural therapy for dummies, June 16, 2008

By 

Nin - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Dummies (Paperback)

This is a great introductory book to the world of CBT. The author uses easy-to-understand language and uses helpful diagrams and worksheets to aide in explanation.

The book contains great information on thoughts and emotions in early chapters, and then provides information on more specific issues such as obsessions, depression, and anxiety, in later chapters.

Although classified as a self-help book, I recommend this book to students and practitioner's of CBT as it is a useful reference to help get your head around the nuts and bolts of CBT. The book also will help you grasp the basic principles of CBT in a way that will allow you to explain it to your clients. You can also recommend that your clients read chapters of the book whilst they undergo therapy.

Don't be swayed or embarrassed by the "For Dummies" title-- this is really a great book on CBT written by experienced CBT therapists who will help you understand what CBT is all about.