A Practical Guide to CBT for Work by Gill Garratt Summary

A Practical Guide to CBT for Work applies Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles to workplace challenges like stress, motivation, and interpersonal conflicts. It offers actionable strategies to reframe negative thought patterns, improve emotional resilience, and enhance productivity through real-world examples and exercises.

This book is ideal for professionals facing workplace stress, HR managers seeking stress-reduction strategies, or anyone interested in self-improvement. Gill Garratt’s approach caters to both individuals and organizations aiming to foster healthier work environments.

Yes, reviewers praise its accessible introduction to CBT concepts like the ABC framework and practical workplace applications. However, some note it lacks depth on advanced topics like Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), making it better suited for beginners than experts.

Key concepts include:

• ABC Framework: Analyzing Activating events, Beliefs, and Consequences to reframe negative thoughts.
• Behavioral Activation: Using goal-setting to combat procrastination.
• Cognitive Restructuring: Replacing unproductive thoughts with balanced ones.

Garratt emphasizes identifying stress triggers (e.g., deadlines, conflicts) and applying CBT techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and assertive communication. Case studies illustrate managing anxiety and fostering resilience.

Yes, the book’s strategies are adaptable to remote work, such as using self-monitoring journals for time management and CBT-based apps for stress reduction. Garratt also discusses maintaining work-life balance in digital-first environments.

Unlike broader CBT guides, this book focuses specifically on workplace scenarios, offering targeted advice for office dynamics and career challenges. It’s more concise than clinical handbooks but less detailed than academic texts.

Examples include overcoming imposter syndrome, managing difficult colleagues, and navigating promotions. One case demonstrates using the ABC model to address a fear of public speaking during meetings.

Some readers note the second half lacks structured exercises and desired depth on REBT integration. Others find the examples overly simplistic for complex workplace issues.

With rising remote work and AI-driven job changes, the book’s focus on adaptability, stress management, and mindset shifts remains timely. Its principles align with modern needs like digital detoxing and emotional agility.

For deeper dives, consider:

• CBT at Work For Dummies (also by Garratt) for organizational strategies.
• Feeling Good by David Burns for foundational CBT techniques.
• Atomic Habits by James Clear for behavior-change frameworks.

With 30+ years as a Senior Accredited REBT Therapist, Garratt blends clinical CBT knowledge with real-world workplace experience, ensuring methods are both evidence-based and pragmatically tested.