ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book highlights innovations in the science and practice of cognitive behavioral therapists (CBT), painting a picture of the flexible and contemporary study and practice of CBT. It briefly describes the traditional CBT strategies and techniques in order to set the stage for consideration of the innovations that have stemmed from those traditional strategies and techniques, as one can only appreciate innovations if they understand the traditional approaches from which they developed. A. T. Beck's cognitive therapy was met with much skepticism when it was developed, as it was such a departure from the prevailing view of the way in which depression was conceptualized and treated. There are a number of features of group therapy that make it an attractive modality in which to deliver CBT. One obvious feature is the potential cost effectiveness of group treatment, as groups can be implemented for as little of half the cost of individual therapy.
