Where is Cognitive Therapy Used?

Because it is a flexible and practical approach to helping people change their maladaptive thoughts, feelings, and actions, Cognitive Therapy is used by Mental Health Professionals for a diverse range of psychological conditions. Cognitive Therapy was initially developed as a treatment for depression and over the past 20 years it has been extended and adapted for an extensive array of problems that include anxiety and phobias, personality disorders, marital discord, bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder, alcohol and drug abuse, eating disorders, and even schizophrenia. Cognitive therapists work with individuals, couples, families, or groups of people who have psychological problems. Cognitive Therapy is performed in a variety of settings that include outpatient clinics, schools, hospitals, or nursing homes. Sometimes, people have more than one problem and in these circumstances cognitive therapists often work closely with other professionals, including teachers, physicians, probation officers, and nurses. When treatment involves the combination of Cognitive Therapy and medication, cognitive therapists usually work closely with a psychiatrist or other physician (for example, a pediatrician or primary care physician).