Critically Analyse the Contributions to Modern Thinking and Understanding of Counselling Concepts Made by Three Named Expert Theorists in the Field of Cognitive Behavioural Counselling.

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Su Curtis 15/01/11 AQA level V diploma in counselling practice Core theoretical approach: Cognitive - Behavioural Essay Title: “Critically analyse the contributions to modern thinking and understanding of counselling concepts made by three named expert theorists in the field of cognitive behavioural counselling. Learning outcome; 2-1 Critically compare key theoretical concepts of one other major counselling theoretical tradition to that chosen. I shall be discussing the development of cognitive behavioural therapy, affected by the work of Albert Ellis, Aaron T Beck, and Donald Meichenbaum. In looking at the development of Albert Ellis's theory of rational emotive behaviour, I will discuss his use of ABC technique. I will look at Beck's development of cognitive therapy and his work on depression. As Meichenbaum developed things further and moved towards Constructivism I will look at the differences in his therapy to cognitive therapy and rational emotive therapy as well as his work in stress inoculation. I will review the development of counselling and make reference to humanistic practice from Rogers' person centred perspective to show elements of similarities as well as differences with cognitive behaviour therapy. In summing up I will look at the limitations of CBT and the future of counselling. McLeod stated “people in all societies, at all times, have experienced emotional or psychological distress and behavioural problems." McLeod (1993:13). He discussed in early societies the belief that unfulfilled wishes were the cause of ill-health. It could be said counselling has been around in some form since early man learnt to care about his fellow man, Hooper (1997). The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century created a strong middle-class, who were educated, had access to mass media and the written word. Novelists
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