Evans Ian M. How and Why Thoughts Change: Foundations of Cognitive Psychotherapy

Oxford University Press, 2015. — 266 p. — ISBN: 978–0 – 19 – 938084 – 8.Cognitive therapy, a core approach within a collection of psychotherapeutic techniques known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is fundamentally about changing peoples' thoughts-helping them overcome difficulties by recognizing and changing dysfunctional thinking styles. This online guide deconstructs the nature of cognitive therapy by examining the cognitive element of CBT, and how and why thoughts change behavior and emotion. It covers the classic Beck approach, the late Albert Ellis's rational-emotive psychotherapy, Young's schema-focused therapy, and newer varieties such as mindfulness training, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and problem-solving strategies. It identifies the common principles underlying these methods, attempts to integrate them, and makes suggestions as to how our current cognitive therapies might be improved. It also draws on a broad survey of contemporary research on basic cognitive processes and integrates these with therapeutic approaches.Introduction: Cogito Ergo Sum.
Changing Thoughts in Practice: The Basic Concepts of Cognitive Therapies.
Thinking About Thoughts.
The “Stream” of Consciousness: Mind-Wandering, Introspection, Rumination, Meditation, and Mindfulness.
Distorted Thoughts.
How Thoughts Influence Mood and Feelings — or Is It the Other Way Around?
How Thoughts Lead to Action — and Why They Sometimes Do Not.
General Principles of How and Why Thoughts Change.
Can Cognitive Treatments Be Enhanced?