Enhancing CBT through Family and Peer Engagement

This edited volume brings together clinical and research experts to focus on the important roles that personal relationships play in terms of outcome. Each chapter includes practical guidance in this areas, a synthesis of recent empirical evidence, and the clinical considerations for diverse identities.  This book emphasizes a transdiagnostic approach in assessment and therapy, across levels of care - and how it can be implemented in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, inpatient hospital settings, and schools.  Differing configurations of therapy are also discussed, such as whole family or parent/partner only formats.  This text holds relevance for both clinical trainees and seasoned professionals alike.

From the foreword by Nikolaos Kazantzis:

Family members and peers often play crucial roles, either supporting the individual within or outside sessions, and at other times may inadvertently reinforce symptoms, thus maintaining the disorder. Including these significant others in clinical assessment and treatment offers unique benefits and can augment or exceed the benefits of individual interventions.

The practice of CBT ideally considers the individual in context, within family, peer, and partner relationships. As we move towards a science for CBT that clearly identifies those processes of etiology that become processes of treatment, strengthening interpersonal relationships, including directly drawing on the support of others in the clients life, can bolster the effects of CBT. The purpose of Dr. Reuman and Dr. Thompson-Hollands book is to inspire clinicians and researchers to continue expanding family and peer involvement across settings and conditions. By embracing the synergistic power of CBT and interpersonal support, we can create a more holistic and effective therapeutic experience for those we serve. Dr. Reuman and Dr. Thompson-Hollands have performed exceptionally well in this regard.