In this session, Dr Nina Josefowitz introduces the core principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with a focus on understanding and treating depression. CBT is described as a present-oriented, goal-driven, and flexible therapy designed to help clients change maladaptive thoughts and behaviours. A key component of the session is the introduction of the Four-Factor Model, which categorises a client’s experience into four interconnected areas: feelings, thoughts, behaviours, and physical reactions. This model allows therapists and clients to collaboratively map out depression in a visual and structured way, enhancing understanding and engagement.

Dr Josefowitz emphasizes the strong link between inactivity and low mood, a cycle that perpetuates depression. Behavioral activation (BA) is presented as the initial intervention in treating depression, highlighting its role in breaking this cycle by encouraging clients to engage in meaningful, mood-boosting activities while addressing avoidance behaviours. Dr Josefowitz explains that behavioural activation is a practical and evidence-based approach to lifting mood, which then paves the way for cognitive interventions to modify depressive thoughts. Dr Josefowitz encourages clinicians to incorporate the Four-Factor Model and behavioural activation into their practice, as these tools provide an actionable and hopeful framework for helping clients build a better life despite past challenges.