Kognitiv atferdsterapi

Abstract

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapeutic method focusing on the interaction between thoughts, behaviours, emotions and physiological factors in individuals. The central emphasis is on how people process the information they receive. It is assumed that the meaning or interpretation an individual has in each situation leads to uncomfortable emotions or inappropriate behaviours. Working systematically, the therapist first helps the patient see connections between their own behaviour, thoughts and feelings and to identify and explore negative automatic thoughts (NATs) and potential core beliefs. The therapist then encourages the patient to come up with alternative thoughts and test whether they result in less discomfort and better coping. The goal is for the patient to learn how to use CBT techniques by themself. The article describes a therapy process with a patient struggling with depression. Based on a case formulation that provides an overview of factors contributing to the development and maintenance of the patient's problems, the most central therapeutic interventions are described: establishing agreement on therapy goals, session structure, setting an agenda, mood checks, and homework assignments. The article also provides examples of how the therapist encourages cognitive restructuring through open-ended questions and guided discovery. Keywords: cognitive behavioural therapy, guided discovery, case formulation