Which therapy focuses on changing negative thought patterns?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is designed specifically to address and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to psychological distress. This therapeutic approach operates on the premise that maladaptive thinking leads to maladaptive emotional responses and behaviors. By identifying and challenging negative thoughts, individuals can restructure their thinking patterns, leading to improved emotional regulation and coping strategies.

CBT involves various techniques, such as cognitive restructuring, which encourages clients to evaluate the validity of their thoughts and consider alternative perspectives. This process can help clients recognize cognitive distortions, such as all-or-nothing thinking or overgeneralization, and replace them with more balanced and realistic thoughts.

In contrast, interpersonal therapy primarily focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills, which can indirectly influence thought patterns but does not specifically target them. Group therapy is centered on peer interactions for support and shared experiences, while art therapy utilizes creative expression to facilitate emotional processing and communication but does not focus on cognitive restructuring in the way CBT does.