Because CBT is a form of psychotherapy, some believe that it can only be used by mental health professionals in a therapeutic setting. CBT is actually a flexible modality that can be used effectively by a variety of people in many different settings. Teachers, HR professionals, frontline medical professionals, law enforcement, and many other professionals and paraprofessionals can implement CBT in their work.
CBT techniques that can be implemented across many workplace settings include responding to negative thoughts, setting achievable goals, practicing mindfulness, and enhancing skills such as problem solving, communication, and decision-making. These techniques can help employees avoid burnout, navigate relationships, and avoid or resolve conflicts.
CBT can be used outside the workplace, as well. Learning CBT techniques enables people to evaluate their own thoughts and use good self-care during and after work hours. Doing so can help individuals in their personal relationships and everyday lives.
In this video, Beck Institute experts Dr. Judith Beck, Dr. Norman Cotterell, Dr. Rob Hindman, and Dr. Allen Miller discuss the myth that CBT can only be used in clinical settings by clinicians.