Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma
Published on: November 4, 2010
Case series: the application of "third wave" cognitive behavioural therapies in difficult to treat asthma
Jodie Louise Fellows1, Laura Flower2, John Blakey3
1a Birmingham Regional Severe Asthma Service, Birmingham Heartlands Hospital , Birmingham , UK .
Objective:
This paper provides for the first time cases of individual psychological therapy undertaken in tertiary, difficult to treat asthma services using "third wave" cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) approaches.
Methods:
These cases were selected to represent common psychological presentations in difficult to treat asthma clinics, namely denial of severity and over-identification with asthma. Assessment, formulation, intervention and results are outlined.
Results:
Case 1 demonstrated change from severe to mild depression and anxiety, reduction in shame and improved well-being. Case 2 demonstrated improvements in well-being and psychological symptoms. Both interventions were experienced by the patients as highly satisfactory.
Conclusions:
It is concluded that a psychological understanding of patients' presentations can open up new avenues for intervention. Further research into the potential utility of third wave cognitive therapies in difficult to treat asthma is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Classification of Asthma
Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
Behavior Therapy
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Asthma-IV: Nursing Management
First, in...
Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
