The Conceptualization Process in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Commentary on Chapter “Case Formulation in Standard Cognitive Therapy”

Abstract

This chapter offers a concise review of the conceptualization process in Cognitive Behavior Therapy. It describes the conceptualization process of CBT in ten steps, from the need to develop a working model of the patient’s problems to the collaborative work with the patient in order to refine the conceptualization. The therapist and patient develop specific targets for change and establish a direction and symptom cluster upon which to focus. In a following step, through a series of cognitive and behavioral experiments the patient commit himself or herself to change the psychopathological scenario. Last, the patient and therapist evaluate the success of the commitment to change and the patient can assess his or her new set of actions and goals.