Today marks World Psychotherapy Day.

In the 1960s, American psychiatrist Aaron Beck developed a method of psychotherapy originally called “cognitive therapy,” which today is known by most practitioners as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Initially created with depression patients in mind, it has since been adapted for patients with a wide range of diagnoses and problems, across different ages, backgrounds, and education levels.

Cognitive and behavioral therapies share the common assumption that “learning processes determine behavior (behavioral therapy), as well as the acquisition and reinforcement of beliefs and worldview (cognitive therapies)” (Popiel & Pragłowska, 2008). In practice, cognitive therapy techniques are often used alongside behavioral therapy techniques, which is why the term cognitive-behavioral therapy is prevalent in therapy rooms. The acronym CBT (from the English “cognitive-behavioral therapy”) is also widely used.

Today, many forms of cognitive-behavioral therapies exist, sharing key features (most notably the use of cognitive and behavioral methods) but differing in conceptualization, focus on specific elements of the disorder model, or techniques used. Beck’s cognitive theory integrates different forms of psychotherapy and remains open to new developments.

The cognitive model underlying CBT assumes that dysfunctional thinking is a common feature of all mental disorders—automatic distorted thoughts and rigid beliefs. Maladaptive cognitive schemas and beliefs arise from our experiences, often very early in life. Over time, we “learn” a certain thinking style, which becomes ingrained and acts as a filter through which we interpret new experiences. The way we think influences our emotions and behavior. Since cognitive schemas are often emotionally charged and rigid, changing them may require the help of a specialist.

Dobson and Dozois (2001) highlight the following assumptions of cognitive therapy:

• Cognitive activity influences behavior.
• Cognitive content and processes can be monitored and changed.
• Behavioral and emotional changes can be brought about by cognitive change.

Treatment in CBT is based on conceptualization, an individualized formulation of the patient’s problem. During therapy, the goal is cognitive change, which leads to emotional and behavioral change. Cognitive change involves altering thinking patterns (beliefs, evaluations, assumptions, expectations) and cognitive processes (cognitive distortions, reasoning, cognitive strategies). To achieve lasting improvements in mood and behavior, therapy focuses on deeper cognitive content, such as core beliefs. When thinking becomes more functional, patients may feel better, manage problems more effectively, and engage in meaningful activities.

Currently, the theoretical foundations and techniques of CBT are not only used in psychotherapy but also in counseling, social work, and education.

Bibliography:

• Beck, J. S. (2012). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Basics and Beyond. Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego, Kraków.
• Popiel, A., & Pragłowska, E. (2008). Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: Theory and Practice. Paradygmat, Warsaw.