The role of the formulation

An important part of traditional CBT is a formulation and clients typically encounter this early on in the counselling process, usually after the first few sessions have taken place.

Having explored with the client what their situation is and what is bothering them or brought them to counselling, a formulation applies this to a cognitive model together with any modifications (which can sometimes get pretty complicated).

It’s essentially my view as a counsellor of what’s going on and sharing it with the client, again, typically early in the process is an opportunity to demonstrate my understanding of the clients situation and how everything is coming together to cause the problem. A CBT counsellor will talk this through with the client and provide an opportunity for feedback.

If something’s completely off, perhaps some important part of the client’s history has been missed out in the information gathering process, this is an opportunity to identify that and plug any gaps.

Discussing our understanding of what’s happening and areas of focus lets us plan in the rest of the sessions and set appropriate areas of work.

Sometimes in instances where an early discussion of the formulation might have impacted progress, bringing the formulation into sessions later on is a chance for reinforce what we’ve been doing. It can also be used to help with any necessary course corrections.

One of the best things about CBT is that it’s pretty logical, accessible and collaborative. Being able to talk through our understanding quite openly and directly with clients brings the client actively into the therapeutic process and it’s one of my favourite parts of the counselling experience.

If you’d like to work with me on your mental health, you can get in touch with me via the website or drop me a message directly at mckellarcbt@gmail.com