Evidence exists that the effectiveness of psychotherapy depends more on therapists’ variables than on their theoretical orientation or the techniques they use. Nevertheless, relatively little is known regarding the process of cognitive behavioural psychotherapists’ development. The purpose of the study was to explore how beginning cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) practitioners develop, considering various professional and personal influences. Eight in-depth interviews with beginning therapists were conducted, and the Grounded Theory Method was used for data analysis. The developmental process was conceptualized as Gaining Professional Confidence, and three phases of this process were identified: (1) Externally Based Confidence in CBT Methods, (2) Internalized Confidence in CBT Methods, and (3) Therapists’ Self-Confidence. The results indicate that trainees’ self-reflection on their personal qualities, values, attitudes and preferences should be given more attention in CBT training, as this plays a crucial role in their overall professional development.
