Imagine that some of your colleagues mention using cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and reality therapy. Your colleagues continue to say that, based on their experiences, they really like these therapies and they appear to work. Your instincts also tell you that perhaps they might be helpful for your client in your case study. However, from Week 1, you recall that experiences and instincts as sources of knowledge are quite limited because they are biased. Instead, it is important to utilize existing research and data to support your choices of interventions. Theory helps inform the evidence-based practice process that should guide social workers’ practice.
In this Discussion, you examine the research related to a therapy based on cognitive or cognitive behavior theory to determine its effectiveness.
• Recall the client from the case study you have been using in this course. You will apply your research for this Discussion to that client. Case study attached separately. Helen. Case study is highlighted.
• Select one therapy from the following: cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, or reality therapy.
• Conduct a search in the Walden University Library for one peer-reviewed research study about the effectiveness of the therapy you selected.
o Note: You must select a study that has not already been used by a colleague in the Discussion. Each student is required to identify a unique research study.
• Remember when looking for studies to take into account your client’s age and developmental stage and presenting problem.
Post a response to the following:
• Provide the reference for the study you found using APA guidelines. Be sure to provide a link to the article.
• Identify the therapy that you chose.
• Briefly paraphrase, in 2–3 sentences, the methodological context (i.e., research method, how data was collected, and the instruments used) of the study and the findings.
• Explain how the findings are applicabile or appropriate for the client in your case study.
• Determine whether you would use or not use the therapy you selected for the client in your selected case study (consider how culturally
Application of Findings to the Case Study Client (Helen)
The findings of this research are highly applicable and appropriate for Helen. Helen presents with clear symptoms of PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance) and severe depression stemming from the trauma of domestic violence and the recent loss of her abusive partner. The study's focus on TF-CBT's effectiveness in reducing both PTSD and depressive symptoms is a direct match for her dual presenting problems. Furthermore, while Helen is not a refugee, the study population of traumatized adults experiencing complex, often severe trauma provides a robust evidence base. The use of validated measures, such as the CAPS, in the source studies ensures that the reported effectiveness aligns with the diagnostic criteria relevant to Helen's condition.
Determination on Therapy Use and Cultural Considerations
I would use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) for Helen.
The therapy is strongly supported by research for her specific conditions (PTSD and depression). However, its implementation must be highly adapted and culturally sensitive.
Cultural Considerations for Helen:
Stigma and Confidentiality: Given Helen's likely cultural background where mental illness carries significant stigma, the therapist must prioritize building trust and emphasizing the confidentiality and professionalism of the therapeutic relationship.
Pace and Safety: TF-CBT involves trauma narration and exposure techniques. For a client like Helen, who is a victim of domestic violence and may have internalized feelings of blame or shame, the therapist must proceed at a slow, client-led pace, continuously assessing her emotional safety.
Cultural Context of Beliefs: Cognitive restructuring—a core component of CBT—must be used to challenge maladaptive thoughts (e.g., "I deserved the abuse") while respecting her core cultural values or religious beliefs. The focus should be on separating her intrinsic worth and identity from the traumatic events.
Integration of Systems: Therapy should not occur in a vacuum. A comprehensive approach would involve integrating her treatment with her legal and social support systems, acknowledging that her trauma is rooted in systemic and social violence, not just individual pathology. This culturally-informed approach ensures the therapy is respectful, relevant, and ultimately more effective.
Sample Answer
Selected Therapy
The therapy I have chosen is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), specifically its trauma-focused variant (TF-CBT).
Methodological Context and Findings of the Study
This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and 5 non-RCTs to assess the effectiveness of TF-CBT for refugees, a population often dealing with complex and severe trauma. Data was collected from existing studies that used standardized, validated instruments (e.g., Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale - CAPS, Impact of Event Scale - IES, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression - HAM-D) to measure symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety before and after treatment. The overall findings indicated that TF-CBT was an effective treatment, showing a medium-to-large effect size in reducing PTSD symptoms and a medium effect size in reducing depressive symptoms among adult refugees.