Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy of Anxiety A Transdiagnostic Treatment Manual

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is highly effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders, regardless of the specific type of fear that is causing difficulties. This practical, hands-on clinical resource presents a proven group treatment protocol for patients with any anxiety diagnosis. Step-by-step guidelines are provided for setting up transdiagnostic groups, using comprehensive assessment to plan and monitor treatment, and implementing carefully sequenced cognitive and behavioral techniques. Clinical examples illustrate the nuts and bolts of intervention across different anxiety disorder presentations. Special features include 19 reproducible handouts and forms that can be downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.

Peter J. Norton, PhD, is Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Houston and Director of the University of Houston Anxiety Disorder Clinic. He has authored more than 90 research papers on such topics as anxiety disorders, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and chronic pain; has delivered many presentations and workshops for the scientific community, therapists, and the general public; and serves on the editorial boards of two scientific journals. Dr. Norton has received early career awards and research grants from the National Institute of Mental Health, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, the University of Houston, the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, and the American Psychological Association.

Introduction 1. Anxiety Disorders and the Transdiagnostic Perspective 2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy within a Transdiagnostic Framework 3. Getting Ready for Treatment: Assessing the Client 4. Session 1: Introduction and Education 5. Session 2: More on Anxiety and the Importance of Thoughts 6. Session 3: Challenging Anxious Thoughts 7. Prior to Session 4: Planning to Confront the Fears 8. Sessions 4 through 9: Exposure 9. Session 10: Getting Back to Thoughts 10. Session 11: Softening Negative Affective Styles 11. Session 12: Relapse Prevention and Moving Forward 12. After Treatment: Assessing Improvement and Moving Forward