Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
Introduction
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a method used in order to assist clients’ ability to restructure ones self-talk and ultimately modify their behavior (Corey, 2013). Throughout the process of CBT, various methods including operant conditioning, modeling, and behavior rehearsal are incorporated to modify self-talk and thinking processes (Corey, 2013). A common method of CBT is rational emotive behavior therapy. REBT is based upon the theory that when people hold strong views surrounding events or situations in their life, we essentially cause our own psychological problems. REBT also believes that these underlying feelings contribute to our behaviors, essentially resulting in a cause and effect relationship (Ellis, 2001a,
2001b, 2002, 2011; Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Wolfe, 2007) (Corey, 2013).
Although CBT is a widely used method of treatment, it is not without its limitations. Including, the lack of importance toward childhood experiences, leading to argue that discussing past events in light of current circumstances, could prove valuable (Corey, 2013). Furthermore, placing too much responsibility on the therapist, along with the possibility of the therapist reflecting too much of their own views and opinions upon the client, could be harmful. Likewise, the lack of the spiritual aspect could prove to be a missing link for certain clients. If the client indicates that their religion, or spirituality, is an important factor in their healing, it would seem somewhat logical to include that in therapy (Corey, 2013).
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a method used in order to assist clients’ ability to restructure ones self-talk and ultimately modify their behavior (Corey, 2013). Throughout the process of CBT, various methods including operant conditioning, modeling, and behavior rehearsal are incorporated to modify self-talk and thinking processes (Corey, 2013). A common method of CBT is rational emotive behavior therapy. REBT is based upon the theory that when people hold strong views surrounding events or situations in their life, we essentially cause our own psychological problems. REBT also believes that these underlying feelings contribute to our behaviors, essentially resulting in a cause and effect relationship (Ellis, 2001a,
2001b, 2002, 2011; Ellis & Dryden, 2007; Wolfe, 2007) (Corey, 2013).
Although CBT is a widely used method of treatment, it is not without its limitations. Including, the lack of importance toward childhood experiences, leading to argue that discussing past events in light of current circumstances, could prove valuable (Corey, 2013). Furthermore, placing too much responsibility on the therapist, along with the possibility of the therapist reflecting too much of their own views and opinions upon the client, could be harmful. Likewise, the lack of the spiritual aspect could prove to be a missing link for certain clients. If the client indicates that their religion, or spirituality, is an important factor in their healing, it would seem somewhat logical to include that in therapy (Corey, 2013).