The Washington Center for Cognitive Therapy – How Cognitive Therapy Differs

How Does Cognitive Therapy Differ from Traditional Therapy?

Cognitive therapy differs from traditional therapy in many ways.  Cognitive therapy is

• active

• directive

• focused on the present time

• short-term

Cognitive therapy emphasizes:

• identification of problems and goals that are shared by client and therapist

• clear-cut agenda for each session

• self-help homework recommended for practice and progress

• objective measures of outcome

The therapist’s role is to provide a range of cognitive, behavioral, and experiential strategies to alleviate the client’s suffering.