Who is credited with founding cognitive therapy?

Aaron Beck is credited with founding cognitive therapy, which emerged in the 1960s as a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy. Beck developed cognitive therapy as a means to address and treat various mental health issues, particularly depression. His approach was predicated on the idea that our thoughts directly influence our feelings and behaviors; by changing dysfunctional thinking patterns, individuals could improve their emotional responses and overall mental health.

Beck's work led to significant advancements in the understanding of cognitive processes and their impact on psychological disorders. He created specific techniques for identifying and modifying negative thoughts, making cognitive therapy an evidence-based practice widely used in clinical settings today. Beck's emphasis on the role of thoughts in mental health laid the foundation for cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which integrates cognitive and behavioral strategies to foster change.

In contrast, Sigmund Freud is known for psychoanalysis and the exploration of the unconscious mind, while Carl Rogers is associated with humanistic psychology and client-centered therapy. Albert Ellis developed rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), which shares some similarities with cognitive therapy but is distinct in its focus on challenging irrational beliefs.