Research indicates that ‘Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)’ is the strongest non-pharmacological
behavioural change intervention and is one of the most common behavioural change therapies used in the
western world (McFarlane-Nathan, 2000). The therapeutic relationship in CBT is collaborative and
empowering and the client is an active participant in the process (Elder, Evans & Nizette, 2005). Use of CBT
by Community Mental Health Nurses (CMHN’s) working in a publicly funded specialist mental health
service is the clinical nursing topic chosen for this literature review