The New CBT

Filling a void in the clinical literature, The New CBT: Clinical Evolutionary Psychology integrates new techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with evidence-based evolutionary psychology and behavioral genetics. The text addresses the need for clinicians to be conversant with the burgeoning research that has linked evolutionary and genetic processes to psychological problems. This text makes these essential elements accessible to both clinicians and their clients so they can develop a deeper understanding of crucial clinical topics, such as emotional feelings, cognition, and behavioral change. The New CBT explains the processes of the mind and provides solutions to many of the problems that arise when these processes lead to dysfunction or distress.

The text reviews how the application of evolutionary psychology and behavioral genetics provides both etiological insights and novel treatments for each of the major psychological disorders. Readers are offered evidenced-based explanations of how evolution and genetics can pragmatically resolve the enduring problem of nature versus nurture. Additionally, they come to understand how eons of environmental changes have guided the way people deal with distress, perceive their environment, and judge others as well as themselves. By viewing both normative and problematic behavior through an evolutionary lens, readers gain new perspectives in applying CBT that are thoroughly modern, effective, and take into consideration cutting-edge research.

The New CBT is an ideal text for upper-division courses in psychology, psychotherapy, and psychopathology, especially those with an emphasis on CBT. It is also an excellent resource for practicing clinicians who wish to update or reframe their understanding and use of CBT, evolutionary psychology, or behavioral genetics.

Mike Abrams is a practicing psychologist and clinical researcher with a specialty in cognitive behavioral therapy. He is an adjunct full professor in the M.A. program in psychology at New York University and Managing partner of Psychology for New Jersey, LLC a clinical research corporation. He is a board-certified diplomate of the American Board of Professional Psychology and a supervisor, fellow, and diplomate of the Albert Ellis Institute. Dr. Abrams studied and worked closely with Dr. Albert Ellis, with whom he published several books, chapters, and articles on REBT and CBT. Dr. Abrams has also authored four other books on psychology and has practiced or taught professional psychology for more than thirty years. His research into the evolutionary basis of sexual and trauma disorders led the publication along with David Buss of the first clinical protocol combining evolutionary psychology and CBT.