Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches

Cognitive and behavioral theories and approaches are the basis for the most well-studied and commonly utilized psychological interventions. Specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an empirically validated treatment modality for both mental health conditions, such as depression, and lifestyle factors that can hinder or optimize health and well-being, such as smoking cessation or coping with a chronic disease. CBT is a highly effective treatment that can be adapted for a variety of conditions to improve mental health, encourage health behavior change, and promote overall quality of life. The current chapter first provides an overview of the cognitive and behavioral theories that are the underpinnings of CBT. Next, key CBT strategies (e.g., behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring) are outlined with attention to how they can be leveraged to support mental health and promote health behavior change. Finally, the chapter provides examples of applications of CBT to various mental and behavioral health conditions, such as CBT for insomnia and chronic pain.