AO3: Eval

Cards (3)

  •  CBT proven to be very effective in treating depression. March compared CBT to antidepressant drugs and a combination of both treatments. He found that CBT was just as effective when used on its own and more so when used with antidepressant drugs. CBT usually brief therapy requiring 6-12 sessions = cost-effective. Therefore, used as first choice treatment in public health systems (such as NHS). 
  • Not suitable for diverse – range of clients. For example, those with learning difficulties. There is intense effort + motivation required to engage with the cognitive work of CBT. This is because there is long therapy sessions and some may not be able to pay attention to what is happening in the session. Suggesting CBT only suitable for specific range of people. 
  • Doesn’t take into account biological factors that contribute to depression. Biological research suggests depression can be caused by genetic and biological factors, such as low levels of serotonin. However CBT only focuses on the cognitive elements, specifically irrational beliefs. Wouldn’t be as effective in treating those who have developed depression due to innate biological factors.