What is Cognitive Therapy?
In Cognitive Therapy, clients learn to modify thinking patterns that contribute to life problems. When we are depressed or anxious for example, we tend to see ourselves, other people, and the world through a negative lens. When we are anxious, we tend to view situations as dangerous or threatening. When depressed, we tend to view situations as hopeless. Over time, these perceptions tend to become ingrained and difficult to change.
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Clients are taught challenge their negative thinking and develop more realistic and healthier ways of thinking. Self-defeating behaviors (e.g., avoidance, poor communication, and procrastination) are also targeted for change. Therapists take an active role in the therapy and work collaboratively with the client to set treatment goals. Clients are also active in the change process. Clients are strongly encouraged to practice what they learn in treatment. Examples of such exercises may be keeping logs of thoughts and moods, practicing new ways of communicating with others, and confronting situations that are typically avoided. Research overwhelming supports the notion that doing these "homework" assignments is one of the best predictors of making lasting and meaningful changes. |
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We at the HVCCT believe that our goal is to help our clients become their own therapists. We strive to empower our clients so that they can cope more effectively with life’s challenges.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Therapy
Cognitive Therapy is one of the few forms of psychotherapy that has been scientifically tested and found to be highly effective in hundreds of clinical studies. Results overwhelmingly support the effectiveness of Cognitive Therapy for a wide range of problems -- most notably depression and anxiety disorders. In addition, a growing number of studies is addressing the efficacy of Cognitive Therapy in treating such problems as relationship difficulties, eating disorders, bipolar disorder (with medication), personality disorders, and others.
For more information, see The Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research.
Client Readings
Beck, A.T. (1988). Love is never enough. New York: Harper and Row.
Burns, D.D. (1980). Feeling good. New York: Morrow.
Burns, D.D. (1989). The feeling good handbook. New York: Penguin.
Ellis, T.E., & Newman, C.F. (1996). Choosing to live: How to defeat suicide through cognitive therapy. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications, Inc.
Foa, E.B., & Wilson, R. (1991). Stop obsessing!: How to overcome your obsessions and compulsions. New York: Bantam Books.
Greenberger, D.G., & Padesky, C.A. (1995). Mind over mood. New York: Guilford.
McKay, M., Davis, M., & Fanning, P. (1981). Thoughts & feelings: The art of cognitive stress intervention. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications.
McKay, M., & Fanning, P. (1991). Prisoners of belief. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications.
McKay, M., & Fanning, P. (1987). Self-esteem: A proven program of cognitive techniques for assessing, improving, and maintaining your self-esteem. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications.
Wilson, R. R. (1996). Don't Panic: Taking control of anxiety attacks. New York: Harper Collins.
Young, J.E., & Klosko, J.S. (1993). Reinventing your life. New York: Dutton.