Cognitive Psychotherapy Toward a New Millennium

At the beginning of the 21st century and after a turbulent development process of almost fifty years, cognitive psychotherapy still does not seem to have reached a full epistemological and applicative maturity. However at a clinical level, it may be considered as one of the most valid and efficient instruments; it is supported by an enormous mass of research and experimental data covering a numerous series of disorders such as mood disturbances, with particular reference to depression, as well as anxiety, personality and eating disorders. Also, in the field of schizophrenia, several studies have been carried out, capable of suggesting an original cognitive approach to the therapy and rehabilitation of psychotic patients. Along with the classic approach by the Philadelphia School started by A. T. Beck, a pool of further evolutions of the original cognitive paradigm have been taking place and are still under development. Among these, of particular importance are the relational and constructivist approaches. This book aims to be a useful instrument for an extensive review of the varied landscape of contemporary cognitive psychotherapy.