Integrating cognitive behavioural therapy into nursing practice

Cognitive behavioural therapy is a structured, goal-oriented talking therapy that helps people manage problems by identifying and modifying unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. This article, the third in a series on how nurses can use talking therapies with confidence in their everyday practice, gives an overview of cognitive behavioural therapy, the skills involved and how it can help patients to recognise and overcome dysfunctional thinking patterns and behaviours to improve their mental health, and manage the psychological effects of physical illness.