8th International CBT Conference

istan is limited, restricted and unstructured. This poses an ethical question to all mental health professionals here as to why our population has been deprived so far the availability of such a popular and efficacious intervention. This is especially true in the present scenario when the deluge of pessimism and negativism arising from incessant waves of terrorism, poverty and other stressors threatens the nation; one can’t withhold the precious life jackets of knowledge and skills, for any reason, from people sinking into depression or other psychological problems. The situation shall parallel the ethical dilemma of not providing highly effective antibiotics or hormonal replacements to the acutely ill patients. The question of acquisition and delivery of CBT therefore, becomes an ethical compulsion and national duty to all of us. PACT thus comes in to existence by the efforts of a group of highly motivated and selfless people to not only try to cover the lost time in terms of training and services but also provide a platform for indigenous research and collaboration with national and international organizations. MISSION

The mission is to promote and facilitate education, training and provision of CBT across the country not only to professionals and patients but also to the general public for promotion of mental health. AIMS

The aims of the Association are to:

Introduce and promote culturally and religiously relevant Cognitive Behaviour Therapy based on sound indigenous research integrated with existing evidence based interventions. Lay the foundations for quality education and structured training in CBT. Develop the guidelines and standards for sound and ethical practice of CBT. Provide a platform for sharing views and knowledge about relevant aspects of CBT among members of all helping professionals. To spread CBT beyond clinical setting in to the community to promote mental health, child rearing practices, resilience, productivity and a vibrant and happy society. Publish a newsletter, a journal and other publications aimed at disseminating research and information about the applications of CBT. Establish contact with various public and professional bodies nationally and internationally to achieve its aims.