Cognitive restructuring and psychotherapy outcome: A meta-analytic review

Psychotherapy (Chic). 2023 Sep;60(3):396-406. doi: 10.1037/pst0000474. Epub 2023 Mar 13.

Abstract

Cognitive restructuring (CR) is one method that is hypothesized to play a role in the process of change across many psychotherapies and for a variety of clinical presentations. In this article, we define and illustrate CR. We then present a meta-analysis of four studies (including a total of 353 clients) examining the effect of CR measured within session on psychotherapy outcomes. The overall CR-outcome association was r = .35 (95% CI [.24, .44]; equivalent of d = 0.85). While more research on CR and immediate psychotherapy outcomes is needed, there is accumulating encouraging evidence regarding the therapeutic effect of CR. We conclude by advancing implications for clinical training and therapeutic practices. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Cognitive Restructuring*
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / therapy
  • Psychotherapy / methods
  • Treatment Outcome