MIRECC / CoE

MyBriefCBT Program | South Central MIRECC

About MyBriefCBT

The MyBriefCBT program was developed to improve access and delivery of evidence-based psychotherapies (EBP) in clinical settings that demand rapid or time-limited interventions. Brief CBT was designed to address depressive symptoms and can be delivered in 3-6 sessions. Brief CBT uses measurement-based care and variable treatment intensity models to streamline the psychotherapy process while respecting the needs of patients.

This patient-centered approach to care can also be seen in the way in which the program leverages a flexible skills-based approach that allows providers and patients to select and inform their process of care. Currently, the MyBriefCBT program is being implemented within several Veterans Health Administration Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) across the United States.

The MyBriefCBT program includes:

• A provider manual and patient workbook that is separated into six sections focused on different skills for mood and well-being.
• Each skill area can be a focus of the work done during a session.
• Every skill area does not have to be completed. Patients and clinicians can focus on areas that will be the most beneficial.
• The final section of the workbook contains extra copies of the worksheets and monitoring forms that will be presented in each skill area.
• Five 1-hour webinar sessions are available in VA TMS and VHA TRAIN for clinicians. Each session is accredited for one hour of continuing education credit.
• Published 2021

This product is an evidence-based practice.

You can also download individual PDF sections of the workbook:

• 1. Getting Started - The First Session
• 2. Engaging in Activities to Improve Mood
• 3. Managing Unhelpful Thoughts
• 4. Using Relaxation Skills to Manage Stress and Tension
• 5. Improving Health Wellness
• 6. The Final Session
• 7. Extra Worksheets

Webinars

A MyBriefCBT webinar series is now available in VA TMS for VA clinicians and VHA TRAIN for community clinicians. Each of these five 1-hour sessions is accredited for one hour of continuing education credit. To ensure the TMS links open correctly, it is best to be logged into TMS before selecting a TMS link.

Brief CBT for Depression Webinar 1: Introduction to the MyBrief CBT for Depression Program
Start TMS Webinar Start TRAIN Webinar

Brief CBT for Depression Webinar 2: Introducing Brief CBT to Patients & Brief CBT Goal Setting and Action Planning
Start TMS Webinar Start TRAIN Webinar

Brief CBT for Depression Webinar 3: Activity Engagement to Improve Mood & Managing Stress with Relaxation Skills
Start TMS Webinar Start TRAIN Webinar

Brief CBT for Depression Webinar 4: Managing Unhelpful Thoughts & Improving Health and Wellness
Start TMS Webinar Start TRAIN Webinar

Brief CBT for Depression Webinar 5: Measurement Based Care and Treatment Length Considerations
Start TMS Webinar Start TRAIN Webinar

Developed By

Jeffrey Cully, PhD (point of contact/lead developer), Melinda Stanley, PhD, Mark Kunik, MD, Terri Fletcher, PhD, Michael Kauth, PhD, Kristen Sorocco, PhD, Joseph Mignogna, PhD, Andrew Robinson, MS, and Darrell Zeno, MS.

How Will You Use This Product?

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Use of these Materials and Finding VA Health Care

Note: The health care information provided in these materials is for educational purposes only. It does not replace the role of a medical practitioner for advice on care and treatment. If you are looking for professional medical care, find your local VA healthcare center by using the VA Facilities Locator & Directory.

Last updated: May 28, 2026

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