Effectiveness of a Self-Practice/Self-Reflection Program in Developing Therapeutic Competencies in Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy

Evaluating therapeutic competency training programs is essential for improving the quality of clinical care. Self-practice/self-reflection has been proposed as effective strategy for developing competencies in cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT). This study examined the impact of the self-practice/self-reflection program Personal Change Project on CBT therapeutic competencies using a sequential explanatory mixed methods design. Thirty-one participants completed the CBT Competence Self-Assessment Scale at baseline, week 8, week 16, and week 24 and also participated in semistructured interviews. Quantitative findings showed a significant increase in total competency scores over time, with improvements in three domains: Mastering CBT Theory and Skills, Generic Psychotherapy Competencies, and Using CBT Techniques Properly. No significant change was found in Formulating Clients’ Problems and Plans. Qualitative findings indicated that participants experienced the Personal Change Project as a transformative learning process and reported gains in theoretical, technical, and interpersonal competencies. Overall, the findings support the value of integrating self-practice/self-reflection into CBT training, although they should be interpreted cautiously given the use of self-report measures and the single-program context.