Cognitive Therapy
This
approach effectively addresses APD cognitive distortions
regarding their sense of competency and self-worth. As with
behaviour therapy, the cognitive approach assists individuals
with APD to identify their negative self-thoughts and the origin
of these thoughts. They also need to know that others struggle
with similar issues and that they are not alone (Will, Retzlaff,
ed., 1995, p. 98).
If the self-talk of individuals with APD has become savage in its
self-deprecatory intent, little progress in treatment can be
achieved if this pattern is not altered. Self-statements must be
clearly identified; clients should be asked specifically what
they call themselves or how they refer to themselves when feeling
inept, inadequate, or unacceptable. The words can be startling in
their intensity and viciousness. These must be countered in the
treatment process with constructive, realistic, and
self-accepting statements of encouragement and affirmations
directed toward self-efficacy.
The therapist will not have a personal relationship with the
client and will adopt the role of 'teacher' to the clients'
'student'.