Cognitive and Behavioral Models of Mental Function and Behavior

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidenced-based psychotherapy for several psychiatric disorders commonly seen in clinical practice. Contemporary approaches to CBT emphasize the importance of conceptualizing cases for informing the treatment of patients with depression as well as for other psychiatric disorders. Both cognitive and behavioral theories have been developed to guide the therapeutic process. These theories are briefly reviewed and a case example is provided to illustrate how cognitive and behavioral perspectives inform the identification and modification of negative thoughts, feelings, and unhelpful behaviors that occur in depression. The case conceptualization process is also used for formulating treatment goals and guiding the selection of specific cognitive and behavioral strategies so that the treatment plan is tailored to patient needs. The application of cognitive and behavioral models for other psychiatric disorders, such as panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and schizophrenia, is also briefly described.