Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Theory Critique on:
Cognitive Behavioral and Reality Therapy
Liberty College
Debra Borzym
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Aaron Beck is known as the pioneer of cognitive therapy, which has been a
utilized approach to psychotherapy. Beck attempted to further Freud’s theory of
depression; however, the research moved more towards errors in logic, coined “cognitive distortions” which were deemed the basis of underlying dysfunction and depression. The fundamental aspect of cognitive therapy, which later integrated components of behaviorism, was the carry-over of negative beliefs that reflected the individual’s pathological behavior. In addition to Beck, Albert Ellis contributed to the development of a cognitive based theory in his combination of humanism, philosophy, and behavior therapy when he formed rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). Ellis continues to provide therapy and speaking engagements as a means of continuing his work and developing this form of psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavior therapy includes the restructuring of an individuals own statements and beliefs to develop resemblance with his or her behavior. The theory is founded on the belief there exists a relationship between cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. The relationship effects how the individual experiences events and situations. Cognitive theorists observe human nature from a cognitive and behavioral perspective. Theorists believe individuals have the potential to have rational and irrational thinking. This thinking is identified as the problem or subject. It can be seen as faulty thinking. There are a number of techniques used by the therapist to intervene but the primary therapeutic goal is to teach clients to separate the assessment of their behavior from their evaluation of themselves. Another important factor of this theory is to generalize and accept self regardless of imperfections is the essence of therapy. The therapists goal is
Cognitive Behavioral and Reality Therapy
Liberty College
Debra Borzym
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Aaron Beck is known as the pioneer of cognitive therapy, which has been a
utilized approach to psychotherapy. Beck attempted to further Freud’s theory of
depression; however, the research moved more towards errors in logic, coined “cognitive distortions” which were deemed the basis of underlying dysfunction and depression. The fundamental aspect of cognitive therapy, which later integrated components of behaviorism, was the carry-over of negative beliefs that reflected the individual’s pathological behavior. In addition to Beck, Albert Ellis contributed to the development of a cognitive based theory in his combination of humanism, philosophy, and behavior therapy when he formed rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). Ellis continues to provide therapy and speaking engagements as a means of continuing his work and developing this form of psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavior therapy includes the restructuring of an individuals own statements and beliefs to develop resemblance with his or her behavior. The theory is founded on the belief there exists a relationship between cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. The relationship effects how the individual experiences events and situations. Cognitive theorists observe human nature from a cognitive and behavioral perspective. Theorists believe individuals have the potential to have rational and irrational thinking. This thinking is identified as the problem or subject. It can be seen as faulty thinking. There are a number of techniques used by the therapist to intervene but the primary therapeutic goal is to teach clients to separate the assessment of their behavior from their evaluation of themselves. Another important factor of this theory is to generalize and accept self regardless of imperfections is the essence of therapy. The therapists goal is
References: Corey, G. & Haynes, R. (2005). Integrative counseling, CD-ROM. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole-Thomson Learning. Corey, G (2009). The art of integrative counseling (2nd ed.) Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole- Thomason Learning. Corey, G. (2009). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (8th ed.) Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole-Thomson Learning. DVD (2009): Theory in practice: The case of stan. Belmond, CA: Brooks/Cole-Thomson Learning.