Core Principles in Cognitive Therapy with Youth

Cognitive therapy (CT) is increasingly being adopted by child psychiatrists for a variety of clinical problems. This article explains the cardinal principles, practices, and processes associated with this approach. More specifically, a brief overview of the treatment model is offered along with an emphasis on case conceptualization and modular format for treatment. The value of collaboration, guided discovery, establishing a good therapeutic alliance, empiricism, and transparency in clinical work, as well as bringing the head and heart to consensus, is explained. Finally, the hallmark session structure that characterizes CT is delineated.