Research into the Negative Effects of CBT for Racialised Adults
About the research
Rebecca Itlas, a Trainee Clinical Psychologist at the University of East London, is conducting research into the potential negative effects of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) on racialised adults.
Although CBT can be an effective form of psychological therapy, some people may experience negative effects. The study aims to explore racialised adults’ experiences of CBT and identify aspects of the therapy that may cause harm.
The research will also explore therapists’ perspectives on the potential negative effects of delivering CBT to racialised clients.
The study has received approval from the University of East London’s Department of Psychology and Human Development Ethics Committee.
Who can take part?
The researcher is looking for two groups of participants:
Racialised adults:
- Aged 18 or over.
- From a racialised or ethnic minority background.
- Have received CBT and experienced negative effects.
Therapists:
- Have experience of delivering CBT to racialised clients.
What’s involved?
Participants will take part in a one-off online interview via Microsoft Teams, lasting approximately one hour.
Interviews will explore participants’ experiences of CBT, including its potential negative effects.
Accessibility and inclusion
The researcher offers flexibility in arranging interview times to accommodate participants’ availability.
Closing date
30 November 2026.
How to Apply
For more information or to express an interest in taking part, please contact Rebecca Itlas, Trainee Clinical Psychologist at the University of East London. Email: u2808881@uel.ac.uk Instagram: @negativeeffectsofcbt
Involvement Payment Details
Racialised adults participating in the study will receive a £16 Amazon gift voucher in recognition of their time. No involvement payment is offered to therapists participating in the study. Please note that, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), high street or gift vouchers may be treated as earnings and viewed by the benefits authorities in the same way as other forms of payment. These payments need to be declared in the same way as cash, cheques or bank transfers.