In cognitive therapy, what does collaborative empiricism mean?
A) That therapy will only progress if the client trusts the therapist completely.
B) That there must be a warm relationship between the therapist and the client.
C) That the therapist and client work together to develop treatment goals.
D) That the therapist must collaborate with other therapists to truly be effective.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Collaborative empiricism is the idea that the therapist and client work together as a team to develop treatment goals and strategies. The therapist helps the client to identify and test their beliefs about themselves and the world, and collaborates with them to develop new, more functional beliefs that can help them to achieve their goals. This approach emphasizes the importance of active collaboration between therapist and client, and the need for the therapist to be sensitive to the client's experience and perspective. A and B are incorrect because while a warm relationship is important, it is not the same as collaborative empiricism. D is incorrect because while collaboration with other therapists can be helpful, it is not necessary for effective cognitive therapy.

In Cognitive Therapy, What Does Collaborative Empiricism Mean