Mixed anxiety and depression:A cognitive behavioral approach with (Meichenbaum)

Mixed Anxiety and Depression
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Abstract
Examination of a mental status involves a structured assessment of the behavioral and cognitive functioning of the patient. Considering Anna’s case, she suffers from a panic disorder which stems from historical contexts, having lost her mother who died of cancer at age 13 and the verbal abuses among other developmental issues. The best approach to treating her mental condition is cognitive behavioral therapy. The cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that is goal-oriented with practicalities to problem-solving (Martin, 2017). It aims to alter the thinking pattern as well as behavior that are behind the panic attacks that Anna experiences. The approach is widely used currently because of its successes with various mental health problems and multiple populations. However, there are also certain challenges while using this approach. For instance, it may be ineffective for individuals with difficult health problems and learning difficulties. The paper will address some of the questions relating to Anna’s case.

Therapeutic Approach: Cognitive Behavioral Approach with (Meichenbaum)
Who are the major figures associated with this approach?
Thought
Feelings
Behavior
What historical contexts or influences informed this approach?
Some of the historical contexts that informed this approach include negative thinking about self, and the world, which are attributed to the death of Anna’s mother when she was 13, verbal abuse from her father and husband, and having to deal with her drinking and depressed father.

What are the general therapeutic goals or aims for this approach?
The aim of this approach was to help Anna become aware when she makes negative interpretation or develop a conceptualization which links triggering events, cognition, behaviors, and mood. After achieving that, the focus was to break this cycle of thoughts and behavior which leads to her panic attacks.
List the main concepts that are associated with this approach
Cognitive restructuring: Learning to identify then dispute maladaptive or irrational thoughts
Coping strategies: Investing in conscious efforts, to solve interpersonal and personal problems
Emotional self-regulation: responding to ongoing demands of emotions in a socially tolerable manner.
What general guidelines are observed when using this approach?
While using this approach, the therapist must not be biased or judgmental.
It’s also vital for the therapists to have close and trusting working relationships with clients.
What sorts of questions would a social worker using this approach ask?
Therapy involves the fine art of asking directive questions. A social worker using this approach may ask easy, brain-expanding questions.
What would a social worker using this approach likely prioritize first when using this approach?
A social worker using this approach is likely to prioritize mindfulness of being aware or conceptualization of the triggering events and behaviors.
What especially differentiates this approach?
CBT is an approach based the combination of both behavior and cognition. It’s a theoretical concept which understands the significance of both behavior and cognition, with the outcomes based on behavioral, cognitive and emotional changes.
What makes you like or dislike this approach? Or would you use this model in your future practice? (why or why not)
I like this approach because it’s goal-oriented with practicalities to problem-solving. The model will be useful in my practice when it comes to dealing with various mental health problems. The approach is widely used currently because of its successes with various mental health problems and multiple populations (Martin, 2017).
What would the benefits/challenges be for implementing this approach in your current field placement?
Cognitive behavioral therapy is commonly provided as a face to face treatment between the client and the therapist and can be applicable to different contexts. However, it may be ineffective for the individuals with difficult health problems and learning difficulties.
Reference
Martin, B. (2017). In-Depth: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy | Psych Central. Psych Central. Retrieved 6 November 2017, from https://psychcentral.com/lib/in-depth-cognitive-behavioral-therapy/