Behavioural Therapy had its origins in the inception of the Behaviourism Movement popularised through the work of B.F. Skinner and Ivan Pavlov. Some advocates still believe the workings of the human mind cannot be observed or measured. Behaviour, on the other hand, is tangible and can be measured. Any behaviour that can be learned can also be un-learned. Focusing on behaviour was thought to be more productive than analysing thought.
Skinner and Pavlov famously used animals to demonstrate that behaviours are physical responses to physical stimuli rather than being the result of conscious thought. Pavlov’s dog was taught to associate food with the sound of a bell and eventually to salivate just at the sound of the bell. Skinner proved that positive behaviour (including pressing a lever to obtain food) could be made to occur more frequently through the use of rewards. Negative behaviour could also be discouraged through the use of punishment.
Today, the ideas behind Behaviourism have been incorporated into several different forms of therapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Much more is known about the workings of the human mind and it is generally accepted that thoughts and actions work together rather than in isolation. Even so, it often still makes sense to focus on measurable behaviours more than subjective experiences.
Helping people to modify negative or unwanted behaviours can be achieved through the use of conditioning and positive or negative re-enforcement. Behavioural Therapy is often used quite effectively for treating conditions such as anxiety, phobias, OCD and addiction. Sometimes it is used on its own but generally therapists will incorporate Behavioural Therapy as part of a customised care plan for their client.
Behavioural Therapy can be divided into several categories or methods which influence behaviour in different ways. Therapists may use any combination of these depending on the situation.
Mental illness can be frightening and isolating, especially if you are in a depressed or suicidal state. Talking to friends and family may help but having the support and guidance of a professional counsellor is usually more beneficial. Therapy sessions are confidential and non-judgemental. Seeking help early gives you a greater chance of overcoming your condition and getting your life back to normal.
There are no official requirements for a counsellor to have a particular qualification or level of training, however using a therapist that does have recognised qualifications and proven experience in Behavioural Therapy Counselling will help give you confidence and trust in them.
It is also useful to see if they are a member of a related professional association as this will show they have completed specialist training in their field.
Our True Counsellor Directory lists hundreds of psychotherapists and counsellors from Australia.
Some psychotherapists and counsellors listed in our directory offer counselling over the phone and online in addition to one-on-one consultations. Many also offer workshops and seminars.