Cognitive Therapy for Groups

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Cognitive Therapy Groups Introduction Cognitive behavioral therapy utilizes a group dynamic format, in conjunction with standards cognitive behavioral techniques, to change maladaptive (which are learned behaviors) and dysfunctional beliefs, interpretations, behaviors, and attitudes. Some of the most common interventions include automatic thought records, disputing beliefs, monitoring moods, developing an arousal hierarchy, monitoring activities, problem solving, Socratic questioning, relaxation methods, risk assessment, and relapse prevention. Cognitive Therapy perceives psychological problems as stemming from commonplace process such as faulty thinking, making incorrect inferences on the basis of inadequate or incorrect information, and failing to distinguish between fantasy and reality. The cognitive model of group therapy is based on a theory that emphasizes the interaction of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; these components are interrelated and multidirectional. The most direct way to change dysfunctional emotions and behaviors is to modify inaccurate and dysfunctional thinking. To change how we feel about events, we need to change the way we think about them. In this model of group therapy, a sound therapeutic relationship that emphasizes collaboration and active participation is the foundation for effective practice. The cognitive therapist teaches group members how to identify these distorted and dysfunctional cognitions through a process of evaluation. Group members can learn to engage in more realistic thinking, especially if they consistently notice times when they tend to get caught up in catastrophic thinking. Guiding group members to look for evidence to support or refute some of their core beliefs and faulty thinking can also be useful. As individuals identify a number of self-defeating beliefs, they can begin to monitor the frequency
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