NRNP 6645 Week 5 Discussion – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Comparing Group, Family, and Individual Settings Example 2 CBT in Groups vs Family or Individual Settings.

NRNP 6645 Week 5 Discussion – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Comparing Group, Family, and Individual Settings Example 2 CBT in Groups vs Family or Individual Settings.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used form of psychotherapy rooted in the belief that an individual’s interpretation and processing of their experiences significantly shape their emotions and actions. The fundamental premise of CBT is that dysfunctional or maladaptive thoughts regarding oneself, the world, and others are often based on irrational assumptions. This approach emphasizes identifying and challenging these negative thought patterns to bring about positive changes in feelings and behavior.

In regards to mental health treatment, two common forms of therapy are individual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and group CBT. One example looks at research on anxiety disorders in children and adolescents, such as the study conducted by Guo et al. (2021), which indicates that group CBT offers unique benefits, including opportunities for normalization, positive peer modeling, reinforcement, social support, and exposure to social situations, which are not as readily available in individual CBT. Moreover, group CBT is more cost-effective, potentially leading to savings in medical resources. Conversely, some trials have suggested that individual CBT allows a more tailored approach to address each patient’s specific needs and may be more effective in addressing avoidant behavior.

When comparing group therapy with individual or family therapy, looking at the setting is essential. Group therapy involves a therapist leading a session with multiple participants dealing with similar issues. This setting allows for interaction and support from peers who understand and can empathize with each other’s experiences. On the other hand, individual and family therapy typically occurs in a one-on-one setting, focusing on the individual or family unit’s specific needs and dynamics. This setting allows for more personalized attention and tailored interventions to address the unique challenges and concerns of the individual or family involved.

Individual and family therapy offers a personalized setting where people can openly discuss their emotions, feelings, and experiences in complete privacy. The sole focus is on the patient and addressing their needs, providing a safe and confidential space for self-reflection and exploration.

Individual therapy appointments are more flexible regarding scheduling than group therapy sessions, usually held at specific times. This flexibility can accommodate individual work schedules, personal commitments, and the need to arrange childcare, making fitting therapy into a busy lifestyle easier.

Regarding topics, group therapy typically centers around a particular theme or set of related topics. This focused approach can be beneficial for delving deep into specific issues. On the other hand, individual or family therapy allows for a more diverse and comprehensive exploration of thoughts, feelings, and life circumstances, enabling a deeper understanding and addressing a broader range of personal concerns.

In group interventions, universality is specific to psychological and emotional distress. Marmarosh et al. (2022) explain how individuals dealing with mental health challenges often experience a profound sense of isolation and alienation, particularly when contending with stigmatized conditions. The weight of this stigma leads to greater levels of secrecy, which in turn fuels intensified feelings of shame and isolation. It is common for many individuals to internalize the belief that their struggles are unique.

In group settings, members share their personal experiences, often discovering that they have a lot in common, even when it comes to their most private and challenging mental health struggles. This shared understanding shows that no one is alone in their battle, creating a strong sense of unity within the group. Sharing with peers emphasizes that mental health struggles are every day and reduces the feeling of being burdened alone.

Cognitive-behavioral family therapy is rooted in the concept that family members mutually influence each other. The focus is on how one family member’s thoughts and behaviors can impact others’ responses, resulting in a cycle of behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that may lead to escalating family dynamics and conflict. Family therapy is a structured form of psychotherapy that seeks to reduce distress and conflict by improving the systems of interactions between family members.  

Challenges PMHNPs might encounter when using CBT in Group settings.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) emphasizes problem-solving, whether conducted in a group or individual setting. This approach is essential for identifying