What is the primary goal of cognitive restructuring in mental health treatment?

Cognitive restructuring is a therapeutic process primarily used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns that can contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors. The primary goal of cognitive restructuring is to challenge these maladaptive thought patterns, enabling individuals to replace them with more realistic and constructive thoughts. This change can lead to improved emotional regulation and coping strategies, ultimately fostering better mental health outcomes.

Through this process, patients learn to recognize cognitive distortions—such as all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralization, and catastrophizing—and develop healthier ways of thinking. By adjusting these negative beliefs, individuals can experience shifts in their emotions and behaviors, which is central to the effectiveness of cognitive restructuring in mental health treatment.