Cognitive therapy is based on a theory of psychopathology that links cognition with emotion, and which comprises a set of principles and therapeutic techniques that relate to hypothesis-testing and empirical evidence. There are a number distinctive characteristics that define the Beckian model of cognitive therapy:
- short-term, time-limited
- structured, directive, active
- assumes a sound therapeutic relationship
- relies on a collaborative effort between therapist and patient
- based on a coherent cognitive model and rooted in an individualized cognitive conceptualization of each patient
- problem-oriented, primary focus on here-and-now
- uses the Socratic dialogue and the process of „guided discovery“ to teach patients to be „scientific“ in examining the validity of their cognitions
- Educational Model, fosters self-help and skill practice outside therapy sessions (homework assignments)
Mervin Smucker (2013)