CBT in paediatric and adolescent health settings: a review of practice-based evidence

Cognitive Behavioural therapy (CBT) has strong theoretical underpinnings that facilitate the systematic evaluation of outcomes and process of change adults. CBT has been extensively adapted for use with children and young people with session content and method of delivery modified to acknowledge developmental stage and ability. Current approaches emphasise the psychological management of the impact of symptoms of particular types of physical health difficulties and prevention of the development of psychological difficulties, as well as in the alleviation of procedurally related stress. The need for collaboration with families and other parts of a child's network is particularly relevant in the paediatric setting. This review describes what we have found helpful in our work and provides a road map of where to go to find out more about how to do more. General CBT approaches are described as well as examples of how CBT has been used specifically for procedural distress, diabetes, sickle cell disease, chronic pain and chronic fatigue.