A Transdiagnostic Approach to CBT Using Method of Levels Therapy—Distinctive Features

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the treatment of choice for most mental health problems. Each different problem is usually treated by a different model of CBT. Yet evidence tells us that the same processes are responsible for long term distress in us all. This handy manual draws on evidence and theory to provide the key principles to aid change and recovery.

The transdiagnostic approach is supported by a wealth of evidence that processes such as worry, emotion suppression, self-criticism and avoidance maintain distress across psychological disorders. Perceptual Control Theory (PCT) explains all of these processes as forms of ‘inflexible control’, and Method of Levels Therapy (MOL) helps people to let go of these habits. The principles and techniques of MOL are clearly and practically described for clinicians to offer a transdiagnostic CBT that is tailor-made to the goals of each client.

This novel volume will be essential reading for novice and experienced CBT therapists, as well as counsellors and psychotherapists. Its accessible explanation of Perceptual Control Theory and its application to real world problems also makes a useful resource for undergraduates, graduates and researchers in psychology.

Warren Mansell is a Reader in Psychology, Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, and Chartered Clinical Psychologist. He has authored over 100 publications on CBT and in 2011 received the May Davidson Award from the British Psychological Society for an outstanding contribution to the field of clinical psychology in the first ten years since qualifying.

Timothy A. Carey is the Associate Professor in Mental Health at the Centre for Remote Health in Alice Springs, Australia. He has been using the Method of Levels in a variety of settings for over ten years and has researched and published extensively on its use.

Sara J. Tai is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at the University of Manchester, Chartered Clinical Psychologist and Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. She is an experienced researcher, practitioner, trainer and supervisor of Cognitive Behaviour Therapies, including the Method of Levels.