Question

What are the differences between cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy? Why is it important for counselors to know the differences between these two therapies?

Answer 1

The differences between cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy lie in the fact that; in case of cognitive therapy clients learn to:

Distinguishing between thoughts and feelings. They become aware of the ways in which thoughts influence feelings are at times not helpful. They become aware of thoughts that occur automatically, even without realizing how they may affect emotions. Evaluation, critically if these "automatic" thoughts and assumptions are accurate, or perhaps biased. Developing the skills to notice, interrupt, and correct these biased thoughts independently.

Behavioral therapy involves developing an understanding of the fact that behaviors may get "rewarded" within one's environment, leading to an increase in the frequency of these thoughts and behaviors.

It is important for counselors to know the differences between these two therapies because depending upon the circumstances of the client one of this approach may be appropriate.

The differences between cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy lie in the fact that; in case of cognitive therapy clients learn to:

Distinguishing between thoughts and feelings. They become aware of the ways in which thoughts influence feelings are at times not helpful. They become aware of thoughts that occur automatically, even without realizing how they may affect emotions. Evaluation, critically if these "automatic" thoughts and assumptions are accurate, or perhaps biased. Developing the skills to notice, interrupt, and correct these biased thoughts independently.

Behavioral therapy involves developing an understanding of the fact that behaviors may get "rewarded" within one's environment, leading to an increase in the frequency of these thoughts and behaviors.

It is important for counselors to know the differences between these two therapies because depending upon the circumstances of the client one of this approach may be appropriate.