Cognitive therapy, also known as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), is a form of psychological treatment that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors in order to improve mental health and well-being. It is based on the idea that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and behaviors, and that changing these thought patterns can lead to positive changes in how we feel and act.

There are several different types of cognitive therapy, each with its own unique focus and techniques. Here are 10 types of cognitive therapy commonly used in clinical practice:

1. Cognitive restructuring: This involves identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and replacing them with more positive and realistic beliefs.

2. Behavioral activation: This involves identifying and engaging in activities that bring pleasure and a sense of accomplishment in order to improve mood and motivation.

3. Exposure therapy: This involves gradually exposing individuals to feared or anxiety-provoking situations in order to help them overcome their fears.

4. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy: This combines CBT techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals better manage their thoughts and emotions.

5. Acceptance and commitment therapy: This focuses on helping individuals accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment and commit to making changes in their behavior.

6. Dialectical behavior therapy: This integrates CBT techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies to help individuals regulate their emotions and improve interpersonal relationships.

7. Rational emotive behavior therapy: This focuses on identifying and challenging irrational beliefs that contribute to emotional distress and replacing them with more rational beliefs.

8. Schema therapy: This involves identifying and challenging underlying schemas or core beliefs that contribute to emotional and behavioral problems.

9. Problem-solving therapy: This focuses on helping individuals develop effective strategies for solving problems and managing stress.

10. Cognitive processing therapy: This is a specific type of CBT that is used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by helping individuals process traumatic events and develop more adaptive coping strategies.

Research findings have consistently shown that cognitive therapy is an effective treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use disorders. Studies have also shown that cognitive therapy can lead to long-lasting improvements in symptoms and functioning, particularly when combined with medication or other forms of therapy.

Overall, cognitive therapy offers a practical and evidence-based approach to addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental health problems. By identifying and challenging these patterns, individuals can learn to change their thinking and behavior in positive ways, leading to improved emotional well-being and quality of life.