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A Critical Examination of CBT in Clinical Social Work Practice

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Abstract

The dominance of cognitive behavioral treatment in social work practice is acknowledged and challenged, not from the usual quarters of pointing out its limitations as a theoretical and conceptual model, but from a fundamental critique of its evidentiary basis and the methodology from which such claims of superiority are pronounced. Significant concerns are raised about the restrictive inclusion criteria, the lack of ethnic and racial diversity, inadequate control groups, and researcher bias in random controlled trials studies. Further concerns are raised from social/cultural/political/professional dynamics that are evident in the delivery of mental health services and function to limit client options for treatment.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Faculty of Health and Social Development, School of Social Work, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Arts Building, Room 136, 3333 University Way, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada

    Brian Rasmussen

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  1. Brian Rasmussen
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Correspondence to Brian Rasmussen.

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Rasmussen, B. A Critical Examination of CBT in Clinical Social Work Practice. Clin Soc Work J 46, 165–173 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-017-0632-7

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