Question

Discuss how the cognitive theorists (Kelly, Beck, and Ellis) might respond to this question from a potential client: "I have been a patient of Dr. Steve Smith, who is a psychoanalyst. He feels that I need three years of therapy to explore my defense mechanisms (he said I need to regress back to my childhood repressions, whatever that means). I am feeling depressed, and have even thought of committing suicide. I feel that no matter what I do, I'm just a complete failure. Can you help me, or should I stay with Dr. Smith?"

Answer 1

The client is facing problems of depression and suicidal thoughts.In psychoanalysis childhood experiences are taken into factor and it deals more wih supressed thoughts and beliefs.Cognitive Behaviour will work well for his client.The reason for these distorted thoughts and depression can be changed by bringing about a change in thought patterns and how he can alleviate by understanding the actual cause of such thoughts.The goal is to change the pattern of thinking or behaviour and it usually done in a period of 6-10 months in most cases.Cognitive therapy can combine psychotherapy and behavioural therapy.By using this therapy one pays close attention to the relationship beween problems ,behaviour and thought.