Teaching Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Skills to MSW Students: A Simulation-Based Workshop

This teaching initiative responded to an effort to strengthen the connection between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) theory and practice among Master of Social Work (MSW) students. This initiative was developed in response to feedback from our MSW students, who requested further training in CBT skills before entering practicum settings. Incorporating a two-day training workshop in CBT skills and the use of simulation-based learning (SBL), this project was a pilot for building additional practice skills into the MSW curriculum. The workshop focused on applying specific CBT theory and skills taught within the MSW program in a more focused way, offering a potentially new and ongoing model for building increased confidence in practice techniques. Evaluation methods of the initiative included pre-post qualitative reflections and post-workshop feedback.