Cognitive behavioral therapy

Developed in the 1960’s, the cognitive behavioral therapies are widely practiced in the western world. The methods used are adapted to each person and situation. Their characteristics are:

• an objective : a change observed in the way of thinking, emotional attitudes or behavior towards a problem

• the means : a scientific approach (making hypotheses)

• a certain style of interacting with the patient

The therapy may focus mainly on behavior and/or cognitions. It is based on the one hand on the understanding that the internal and external reality may be biased by cognitive distortions. On the other hand, this type of therapy focuses on modifying behavior by working on real situations.

Useful links:

Association Suisse de Psychothérapie Cognitives  

Association Française de Thérapie Comportementale et Cognitive