Evaluation of Principles Using Psychological Theory, Essay Example

The important aspect of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is that it is a relative short form of treatment and only requires about 4-7 months of therapy in order to treat most form of problems. It is essentially a combination of psychotherapy and behavioural therapy and combines a joint approach between patient and counsellor in order to determine a set of principles that can be applied to their daily lives. CBT uses the assumption that it is not the events that disturb us but the interpretation and meaning we give them. Hence if we provide too much of a negative emphasis we are blocked from doing action that we do not believe in. In this concept we only hang on to old thoughts and are prevented from learning new things. (Martin, B, 2007). For example, uneducated parents in immigrant communities often do not place a high emphasis on the importance of education for their children and as such, no action plan is formulated to address this. CBT can help in changing behavioural conditions to alleviate this problem

This may also be used in conjunction with Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) which is a treatment modality that combines a number of techniques i.e. relaxation and soothing skills, cognitive behavioural techniques and improvement of self-awareness skills. In this context, modality may be defined as an application approach using a therapeutic agent.  The approach to treatment is by that of problem solving, cognitive modification, exposure skills and contingency management. DBT is an innovative therapeutic approach aimed at addressing these needs. (Swales, 2011).

The main aspect of DBT is that of accepting the condition of the patient whilst trying to teach them to change. This is achieved by building and maintaining a positive relationship with the client.

Works Cited

Friedberg, R. D. (2010). Cognitive-Behavioral Approach to Family Therapy . Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy, Volume 36, Number 4,, 159-165.

Swales, B. K. (2011). An Overview of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in the Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Retrieved 3 13, 2011, from Psychiatry: http://priory.com/dbt.htm