Empathy Based CBT: T.E.A.M.

Developed by David Burns, Ph.D., T.E.A.M. Therapy is a highly innovative and powerful form of therapy that builds upon evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to enhance their effectiveness. T.E.A.M. therapy emphasizes speedy change and relief.

T = Testing. Symptoms are measured at the start and end of every therapy session using brief, accurate scales that assess if a client is meeting his/her goals for therapy. The therapist’s warmth, understanding and helpfulness are also rated at the end of every session.

E = Empathy. T.E.A.M. therapy emphasizes a therapist’s empathy, warmth and caring. Understanding of the client’s experience, feelings, thoughts, and concerns is a high priority.

A = Agenda Setting. The T.E.A.M. approach emphasizes an agenda for every session that is created by the client. The therapist and client focus on problems that are most upsetting to the client and that the client wants to change.

M = Methods. The heart of T.E.A.M. therapy lies in powerful methods that can help defeat the negative thoughts, beliefs, and behavior patterns that reduce of joy, self-esteem, productivity and intimacy. T.E.A.M. therapy has strong roots in CBT and also draws on effective techniques from many other schools of therapy.

Kate Northcott is a practitioner of T.E.A.M. therapy.