Behaviour therapy

Practice example of a model developed to support carers in understanding and dealing with challenging behaviours. The Caregiver appraisal model is a prospective model of caregiver stress which has been developed by Northumberland County Behaviour Support Service. The model was developed from work with seven family caregivers over 12 months and provides a framework for managing their distress based on their appraisals of the situations confronting them. It is a cognitive behavioural model. The article describes how the model was developed, how it works and points of practice.

Background  This study was designed to test the hypothesis that carer attributions for aggressive behaviour vary according to a service user's severity of intellectual disability.

Abstract: Have you heard of cognitive stimulation therapy? The London School of Economics (LSE) has carried out research that shows it to be more cost effective than usual care when looking at the cognitive and quality of life benefits for a dementia sufferer. There is also evidence to suggest that it might be more cost effective than dementia medication, say proponents of this relatively unknown therapy. Joanne Knowles is one such advocate who believes in this therapy so much that she voluntarily campaigns to spread its message.

Depression is a common and chronic illness affecting nearly one in five people in their lifetime. The main responsibility for people suffering from depression falls to their carers. Research indicates that carers find the burden of caring for a family member enormous and often feel isolated with this burden (Highet et al, 2004). This paper presents an evaluation of a six‐week course held in Leeds, based on the principles of cognitive behavioural therapy and specifically aimed for carers.

Ian James, Ian Powell and Katharina Reichelt describe how they encourage carers to monitor their own thoughts as a way of understanding the strong emotions they experience. This knowledge can then help carers to find better strategies for coping with difficult caring situations

SHIELD is a research programme which aims to reduce disability, improve outcomes, and enhance quality of life for people with dementia and their carers. This article looks at the aims of three projects within the SHIELD programme: Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST); an Experienced Carer Package (ECP) to support carers; and an intensive Home Treatment Package (HTP).

Aims  Cognitive therapies are increasingly being offered by clinical psychologists to people with intellectual disabilities. This paper reviews some of the factors that influence people's readiness to engage in cognitive therapy.

Psychosocial interventions have been used for many years in caring for people with mental health problems. The few interventions that have a recognised evidence base are cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), family interventions, and education programmes for patients and carers. Describes the process of implementing these interventions in a forensic setting and makes recommendations for future practice. Outlines the training provide to staff and the importance of adequate staffing levels.

BACKGROUND: Comorbid substance misuse in people with schizophrenia is associated with poor clinical and social outcomes.