About Us

Cognitive Behavioral therapy had its beginnings in the 1960's when Aaron Beck outlined the theoretical structure and basic method for CBT. With its pragmatic, action-oriented treatment approach CBT has become a widely used psychotherapy for major mental disorders as well as other disorders associated with our lifestyles. It has continued to flourish as an indispensable tool in the Mental Health Practitioner’s armamentarium but has not obtained the clinical status and advancement it deserves.

There are now close to 300 meta-analyses on CBT demonstrating that CBT is effective for a wide range of psychological problems and disorders. Additionally, Eastern philosophy has overwhelmingly influenced the latest advances in cognitive behavioural approaches. Constructs such as mindfulness, dialectical thinking, and acceptance are no longer waves that ebb and flow but are steady streams that influence how cognitive behavioural therapists approach treatment (McGinn, 2014).

In the current times, the burden of mental illness and psychological suffering is immense in India but still remains largely ‘invisible’ and un-catered to. The mental health workers and professionals in India across all major professional groups have often felt and identified an unmet need for formal training and supervision in cognitive Behaviour therapy (CBT). However, no substantial gains have been made as efforts to systematize and develop the field have not taken the right path or momentum.

The Indian Association for Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (IACBT) is a unique and much-needed platform for students, professionals and the consumers of mental health services which will work towards the achievement of evidence-based Practice, Research and Supervised Training in CBT in India, as well as initiatives for realization and incorporation of the indigenous fund of knowledge that exists in this great Country. The IACBT is committed to work towards the establishment of a ‘network’ of trained CBT experts in India and also endeavor to play a strategic role in networking with CBT professionals all over the world. The Association also aims towards the dissemination of indigenous adaptations of the CT model worldwide through its engagement with the International Association of Cognitive Psychotherapy.