There are significant differences in the applications of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for families and individuals. The same is true for CBT in group settings and CBT in family settings. In your role, it is essential to understand these differences to appropriately apply this therapeutic approach across multiple settings. For this Discussion, as you compare the use of CBT in individual, group, and family settings, consider the challenges of using this approach with groups you may lead, as well as strategies for overcoming those challenges. Post an explanation of how the use of CBT in groups compares to its use in family or individual settings. Explain at least two challenges PMHNPs might encounter when using CBT in one of these settings. Support your response with specific examples from this week’s media and at least three peer-reviewed, evidence-based sources. Explain why each of your supporting sources is considered scholarly and attach the PDFs of your sources. • Beck Institute

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Comparing Group, Family, and Individual Settings

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be used successfully in individual, family, and group settings. However, there are distinct differences and challenges in utilizing CBT in each of these contexts. In group settings, CBT offers the opportunity for individuals to learn from and support one another (Kendall et al., 2023). It provides a sense of togetherness and normalization of their problems. The group dynamic fosters the development of social skills and allows participants to gain different perspectives on their challenges (Weinberg, 2020). The group format also enables therapists to efficiently deliver interventions to multiple individuals simultaneously, making it cost-effective and time-efficient.

However, there are challenges to CBT group therapy. One challenge is ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of group members (Payne et al., 2020). Creating a safe environment where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions can be challenging. Additionally, conflicts may arise and require the therapist’s skillful management to maintain a productive and supportive environment. PMHNPs may encounter similar challenges when using CBT in family settings. The dynamics within families can be complex (Nelson et al., 2021). Addressing individual and relational issues simultaneously can be demanding. A case in point is the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy video on CBT for couples. The therapist navigates the couple’s communication patterns and then helps them reframe their negative thoughts about each other. The PMHNP must expertly weigh the needs and goals of each family member while upholding a systemic perspective.

The sources used are all published in peer-reviewed journals. For instance, the source by Kendall et al. (2023) is published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry. It includes multiple authors and provides a specific research focus on adapting cognitive-behavioral therapy for youth anxiety. Second, the source by Weinberg (2020) is published in Group Dynamics: Theory, Research, and Practice. It offers a practice review on online group psychotherapy. Third, the source by Payne et al. (2020) is published in Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry. This study explores the provision of psychological support at a distance. Finally, Nelson et al.’s (2021) article, published in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, focuses on effective partnership care models involving advanced-practice psychiatric nurses.

References

Kendall, P. C., Ney, J. S., Maxwell, C. A., Lehrbach, K. R., Jakubovic, R. J., McKnight, D. S., & Friedman, A. L. (2023). Adapting CBT for youth anxiety: Flexibility, within fidelity, in different settings. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 14, 194. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1067047

Nelson, S. C., Jeffrey, J. K., Lustbader, A., Rak, J., Gandhi, M., Krishna, R., & Hoisington-Stabile, A. (2021). Effective collaboration with Advanced Practice Psychiatric nurses. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 30(4), 827-838. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2021.07.005

Payne, L., Flannery, H., Kambakara Gedara, C., Daniilidi, X., Hitchcock, M., Lambert, D., & Christie, D. (2020). Business as usual? Psychological support at a distance. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 25(3), 672-686. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359104520937378