The higher prevalence of mental health difficulties amongst people with language and communication impairment is well established. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is considered the gold-standard psychotherapeutic treatment for anxiety and depression. However, an often-overlooked aspect of this approach is the critical role of language in its successful implementation. In this presentation, we will facilitate a dynamic workshop in which speech pathologists will critique the essential language skills required to engage in CBT effectively.

Drawing on theory and empirical research, this workshop promises an interactive journey through the language demands of CBT. By delving into a comprehensive exploration of language, our objective is to emphasise the critical necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration between speech pathology and mental health professionals.

Throughout this workshop, we will use authentic case studies (across the lifespan) to illustrate the intricate connection between language and CBT. Real-world scenarios will showcase the potentially pivotal role of speech pathologists in facilitating successful therapy outcomes. These case studies will provide practical examples that speech pathologists can relate to and use as guidance in practice.

By participating in this workshop, attendees will enhance their understanding of the language demands inherent in CBT. They will discuss ways to potentially assist clients in improving their communication skills and ability to engage with CBT effectively. Furthermore, the workshop will underscore the pivotal role speech pathologists play in enhancing the overall mental health care ecosystem.

The interactive nature of this presentation encourages active engagement, promoting discussion, question-and-answer sessions, and collaborative problem-solving. Speech pathologists will leave the workshop with a deeper understanding of how their expertise can inform mental health intervention.

1. Cognitive-behaviour therapy is mediated by verbal interaction; making it potentially inaccessible to children and adults with language and communication difficulties.
2. The language-based demands of CBT exist from the word to discourse-level; requiring a dynamic interaction between discrete and higher-level language skills to engage in abstract thinking required by this approach.
3. Speech pathologists have a key role in advocating for support to scaffold language skills required to engage in mental health services. Mental health professionals may consult with speech pathologists to establish strategies to reduce the language load of CBT. Some clients may benefit from collaborative intervention from mental health and speech pathology.