Treating Complex Cases: The Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Approach

Patients with complex problems, including co-morbidity, chronicconditions, enduring vulnerabilities, psychotic conditions,persistent difficulties with social relationships and destabilisingsocial environments, are increasingly recognised as the reality ofthe therapist's case load. The cognitive behavioural caseformulation approach can be particularly suited to the treatment ofsuch complex cases.

This book brings together some of the most experienced and expertcognitive behavioural therapists to share their specialistexperience of formulation and treatment of these complex cases. Theexperienced clinician will find in these accounts:
* Evidence-based approaches to assessment and formulation ofcomplex cases
* A wide range of problems not restricted to disorder categories,including anger, low self-esteem, abuse and shame
* A concern with the realities of clinical practice which involvescomplex cases that do not fit neatly into simple caseconceptualisations or diagnostic categories

Many of these chapters highlight the difficulties and complexitiesencountered by the clinician in conceptualising and treating thesecases. However, they go beyond raising awareness of issues andprovide,. where appropriate, specific guidance on dealing withproblems of engagement, socialisation, and implementation oftreatment in complex cases.