Clinical psychology

Assessment

The process where clinicians evaluate client symptoms, history, and needs through structured interviews, psychological tests, and observations.

Therapeutic Alliance

The emotional bond between therapist and client, agreement on therapy tasks, and treatment goals.

Informed Consent

Clients must understand treatment risks, benefits, and limitations before beginning therapy.

Efficacy

How well a treatment works under controlled, experimental conditions.

Effectiveness

How well a treatment works in real-world clinical settings with diverse patients.

Cognitive Triad

A concept in cognitive therapy that includes negative views of self, the world, and the future, often seen in depression.

Free Association

A technique in psychoanalytic therapy where clients express their thoughts freely to uncover unconscious material.

Exposure Therapy

A behavioral technique that involves facing feared stimuli in a controlled setting to reduce anxiety.

Mindfulness

The practice of being aware of thoughts and feelings without judgment or the need to change them.

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)

A therapy developed for emotional regulation, combining behavior therapy with mindfulness.

ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)

A third-wave therapy that promotes psychological flexibility and involves accepting thoughts rather than resisting them.

Meta-Analysis

A statistical method that combines results from multiple studies to measure psychotherapy effectiveness.

Self-Monitoring

Therapists' awareness of their personal biases and emotional influences to maintain objectivity.

Premature Termination

Ending therapy before treatment goals are met, which can lead to unresolved issues.

Defense Mechanisms

Unconscious strategies used to protect individuals from anxiety by distorting reality.

Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

Research design that uses random assignment to evaluate the efficacy of treatments.

Cognitive Restructuring

A technique in cognitive therapy that involves challenging and changing maladaptive thoughts.

Termination

The planned conclusion of therapy when treatment goals are met, ensuring client readiness and reviewing progress.

Therapist Characteristics

Personal qualities such as empathy and communication skills that contribute to effective treatment outcomes.

Cognitive Distortions

Irrational thinking patterns that enhance negative emotions and psychological distress.

Bibliotherapy

An educational component in therapy where written materials are used to enhance client understanding.