thinking about thinking changes

Hi all,

Today our clinical research team had an interesting converation about the underlying theory and principles of the dyadic cognitive restructuring in CBCT for PTSD. I thought it would be interesting to share with you. In short, our UNSTUCK process differs from prior individual cognitive restructuring processes in several ways:

1. we do NOT seek to eliminate negative thoughts, because learning research suggests that change occurs because new thoughts are strengthened in the presence of old thoughts (one doesn’t expunge or “erase” competing thoughts);

2. we do NOT think it is necessary to label the type of cognitive errors that the individual/couple are experiencing, and in fact, believe that this focus can sometimes get in the way of brainstorming alternative conceptions of reality;

3. in this vein, we believe that the key to posttraumatic stress recovery is COGNITIVE FLEXIBILITY; and

4. that pairing cognitive flexibility via the UNSTUCK process with experiential learning through in vivo approach exercises can lead to the most powerful changes;

5. finally, the addition of significant others in the process to work on their own thoughts (in the spirit of it being a true conjoint intervention) and to have their input on alternatives in the therapy room and beyond leads to potentially more powerful and long-lasting interventions.

Team CBCT for PTSD – what are your thoughts, reactions, or additions?