ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the restructuring of situation-specific thoughts, or thoughts that emerge when a person is faced with a particular instance that is upsetting. It provides some additional insights about the reframing of underlying beliefs that go beyond the more straightforward techniques. The chapter discusses tools to aid in cognitive restructuring. It outlines the cognitive restructuring process in the three steps. The three steps are identifying unhelpful thinking, evaluating unhelpful thinking, and modifying unhelpful thinking. The chapter presents tips for maximizing the effectiveness of cognitive restructuring and overcoming obstacles that therapist might encounter during the process. Cognitive restructuring often occurs naturally in conversation between the therapist and client during the session. Because cognitive restructuring is a relatively sophisticated skill to acquire, most clients need some sort of a prescribed format for organizing their work and continuing it outside of session.
