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Cognitive Techniques

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The Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Part of the book series: Current Clinical Psychiatry ((CCPSY))

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Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to basic cognitive approaches utilized in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for a wide range of disorders. We provide a description of the CBT model, along with visual illustrations that can be used with patients. The process of identifying, challenging, and restructuring negative thoughts is explained. The use of thought records is introduced and a list of common cognitive distortions is included, accompanied by numerous examples. In addition, we review the concept of mindfulness, with an emphasis on ways in which it can complement other cognitive approaches and CBT more broadly. Two case examples illustrate the various concepts discussed throughout the chapter. Finally, this chapter concludes with a brief discussion of some common challenges encountered by CBT therapists, particularly when utilizing cognitive techniques in session.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, 6th floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Lauren B. Fisher Ph.D.

  2. Department of Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, 7th floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Lauren B. Fisher Ph.D.

  3. Department of Psychiatry, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, 1 Bowdoin Square, 7th floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA

    Susan E. Sprich Ph.D.

Authors
  1. Lauren B. Fisher Ph.D.
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  2. Susan E. Sprich Ph.D.
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Lauren B. Fisher Ph.D. .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

    Timothy J. Petersen

  2. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

    Susan E. Sprich

  3. Simches Research Building, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA

    Sabine Wilhelm

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© 2016 Springer Science+Business Media New York

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Fisher, L.B., E. Sprich, S. (2016). Cognitive Techniques. In: Petersen, T., E. Sprich, S., Wilhelm, S. (eds) The Massachusetts General Hospital Handbook of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Current Clinical Psychiatry. Humana Press, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2605-3_3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2605-3_3

  • Publisher Name: Humana Press, New York, NY

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4939-2604-6

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4939-2605-3

  • eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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