Assignment 2: CBT & Depression

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Depression First Name and Last Name Name of School, Name of University Course Code: Course Name Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Depression Cognitive Triad As outlined by the classic Beck model of depression, the cognitive triad typical of clients with clinical depression encompasses a negative thinking pattern about oneself, others/the world, and the future (Visco-Comandini et al., 2021). In terms of self-perception, depressed individuals tend to harbor feelings of guilt, self-criticism, and blame. They often use statements like “I’m useless” or “I’m inadequate” (Kennerley, Kirk, & Westbrook, 2017). When it comes to others and the world, they perceive everything as negative and often have thoughts such as “No one cares about me” or “nothing is worthwhile.” Regarding the future, they display a pessimistic outlook with belief that things will never improve and that they are powerless to change their circumstances (Tang et al., 2023). It is crucial for therapists to collaborate with their clients and utilize cognitive behavioral strategies to aid them break away from these negative thinking patterns and be able to pinpoint these harmful cognitions (Kennerley, Kirk, & Westbrook, 2017). Through these strategies, clients can start cultivating a more positive mindset and envisioning new possibilities. Common Maintenance Processes Individuals suffering from depression often display common maintenance cycles in their thoughts and feelings about a lot of things in their day-to-day lives. To begin with, there is a cycle where depressed mood reinforces negative symptoms interpretation and negative biases which plays a part in contributing to an individual’s negative self-view, therefore sustaining their depressed mood. Consequently, the negative biases and depressive symptoms most of the time cause diminished activity levels as individuals feel too tired or disinterested. Indeed, this eliminates activities that were previously enjoyable and fulfilling, thus maintaining their low mood (Kennerley, Kirk, & Westbrook, 2017). Lastly, they may also make individuals to pull out from coping mechanisms and efforts to solve their problems which may lead to a surge in feelings of hopelessness, further reinforcing their depression. Sometimes individuals can find themselves in a situation where they are so entrenched in these vicious cycles that they may feel like there is no way out. In such situations, therapists can collaborate with them and help them identify these negative feelings and thoughts, develop a better outlook on the world, and their future, and increase their problem-solving and engagement skills. Step 1 Treatment Hypothetical Client Recently, Giselle launched a clinic in a neighbourhood that is culturally diverse. Among her initial clients was a woman called Donna, who reported having feelings of depression. She said that she feels her life is devoid of meaning and that she feels like she is trapped by the needs of her young children and husband. When Giselle enquired about any recent events that may have led to her depression, Donna revealed her desire to pursue further education and a new career, but her husband threatened divorce if she pursued these aspirations. In seeking guidance, Donna met her pastor who emphasized to her that she had familial obligations. Giselle recognizes that she has her own cultural biases, which include the role of a man as the family head and a strong attachment to family. While Giselle empathized with Donna, she encouraged her to prioritize the needs of her family over her aspirations for now until her children come of age. Donna agrees to this arrangement due to feelings of guilt about prioritizing her own needs and a fear of loneliness. Subsequently, Giselle collaborates with Donna to explore alternative avenues to find meaning in her life that would not significantly disrupt her family dynamics. Step 2 Treatment Cognitive Model Donna’s dep...