ABSTRACT
Cognitive therapy has often been criticized for not adequately addressing the role of emotions in therapy and the importance of the therapeutic relationship. Indeed, many novices in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) rely heavily on `empirically supported treatments', manualized approaches, agenda-setting, or targeted behaviors and cognitions, but fail to recognize appropriately the role of the therapeutic relationship and the opportunities provided in addressing resistance and non-compliance. Empirically supported treatments `work' (as the title implies), but only if the patient enters therapy, maintains a therapeutic relationship, and actually engages in homework and exposure exercises. Many patients drop out prematurely. If the patient is not in treatment, then no help is found.
