TEAM‑CBT
Updated and Reviewed by Craig Springer, PhD - Clinical Psychologist (NJ License #4497; NY License #016741; PSYPACT APIT #10118) & Silvina Falcon-Levine, MSW, LCSW - Clinical Social Worker (NJ License #4613; NY License #0922140) Last reviewed: March 9, 2026
What Is TEAM‑CBT?
TEAM‑CBT, developed by Dr. David Burns, is a structured, outcome‑driven version of CBT that incorporates four elements:
- T – Testing (real‑time symptom tracking)
- E – Empathy (deep, accurate understanding)
- A – Agenda Setting (ensuring motivation is high)
- M – Methods (using CBT tools tailored to the individual)
It is flexible, efficient, and designed to identify and overcome internal resistance to change.
Why TEAM‑CBT Works
TEAM‑CBT helps you:
- Understand the underlying reasons symptoms persist
- Examine the advantages of current behaviors (e.g., avoidance, perfectionism)
- Reduce internal conflict that can keep people feeling stuck
- Use techniques rooted in CBT, ACT, exposure therapy, and motivational methods
What TEAM‑CBT Sessions Look Like
Sessions often include:
- Symptom rating at each visit to track progress
- Guided discovery and empathy-based exploration
- Rapid use of CBT tools (cognitive restructuring, exposure, behavioral experiments)
- Collaborative agenda setting
Who Can Benefit
TEAM‑CBT is effective for: