I was sceptical when I read that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Tinnitus was aimed at both clinicians and people with tinnitus. All too often, books intended for such a wide readership end up being too academic to appeal to patients or not sufficiently evidence-based to please professionals. However, this new volume manages to hit the mark.
The first section covers a lot of background about CBT for tinnitus, with a clear summary of the evidence the authors have used to formulate their CBT for tinnitus programme. No element is included without empirical justification. The second section comprises the programme itself, divided into components such as understanding tinnitus, relaxation, responding to negative thoughts, managing sleep problems, etc. Each chapter includes suggested activities to complete and, helpfully, a ‘common difficulties’ section (in welcome recognition of the fact that psychological therapies are not always plain sailing.)
The whole book is written in clear, accessible (but never patronising) language, which will, I am sure, be appreciated by busy clinicians as well as patients.
I am a little unconvinced of the usefulness of the companion website - some of the information in the book is simply repeated in the form of pieces to camera - but perhaps this will suit those less keen on reading.
Clinicians who have undertaken training in tinnitus therapy will, I think, find this book really helps them to move onto the next step. Actually, using CBT techniques with patients will feel less daunting with this volume open on the table. Being able to introduce some of the ideas and then invite patients to take the book and work through material independently could also save on some of that all-too-precious appointment time.
All in all, a very helpful volume by trusted experts, which I hope will play a part in making effective tinnitus therapy more accessible.
