How does Cognitive Therapy work?

The Therapist

Cognitive Therapy views the patient and their disorders principally from the perspective of the patient’s cognitions. At the same time, the cognitive therapist understands that thoughts are not the original cause of all problems. The therapist will examine the patient’s thoughts, moods, behavior, medical status, and general environment to develop an understanding of the patient’s problems. These are the keys to understanding CT in action.

Whatever the original cause of a patient’s problem, thoughts play an influential role in allowing dysfunctional behavior to persist. As a result, the cognitive therapist will focus therapy on the patient’s thoughts, and coordinate therapy with a medical doctor or psychiatrist when and where this is appropriate. The cognitive therapist will also use techniques from other psychotherapeutic orientations, like behavioral therapy, where these are appropriate or the best means to handle the patient’s dysfunctional cognitions.

The Patient

Cognitive Therapy depends on a strong and healthy therapeutic alliance between the therapist and the patient. Both must be committed to the therapeutic process and achievement of the desired outcomes. Further, the patient must understand that the success of the therapy depends on their active involvement and participation.

An important purpose of the therapy is to teach the Cognitive Therapy process to the patient. The therapist shows the patient how to find, analyze, and change their irrational or dysfunctional thoughts. The patient should learn to apply the therapy to any future problems and also to prevent relapse.

The Therapy Session

Cognitive Therapy focuses on resolving problems and accomplishing goals. Whatever the diagnosis is, the therapy will start by focusing on the patient’s presenting problems. The Cognitive Therapy process is expected to last for a limited time, usually for a period measurable in weeks or months. Sessions are structured and keep their structure throughout the evolution of the therapy.  

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