Cognitive Behavioural Treatment

Biological basis of Cognitive Behavioural Treatment

• Cognitive Behavioural Treatment (CBT) is a psycho-social intervention aiming to improve mental health by modifying dysfunctional behaviours and cognitions through a goal-oriented, systematic approach.
• Cognitive Processing Therapy, a specific type of CBT, has been proved effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder and related symptoms.

Techniques involved in Cognitive Behavioural Treatment

• Exposure Therapy, an aspect of CBT, is designed to gradually expose a patient to fear-causing elements in a controlled environment, reducing anxiety over time.
• Cognitive restructuring, another aspect of CBT, helps individuals challenge and alter irrational thoughts.

Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Treatment

• Several studies have found CBT to be effective in treating a variety of conditions including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol, and drug use problems.
• Responding to a relapse, if it occurs, is often part of the process of CBT. Therapists help individuals identify what weakened their skills and devise a plan for navigating such pitfalls in the future.

Ethical considerations in Cognitive Behavioural Treatment

• Therapists have a responsibility to ensure that CBT is suitable for a patient’s specific needs and diagnosis.
• Informed consent, confidentiality, and respect for the individual are all critical ethical considerations in providing CBT.